Name: Nicola Coaker
Company: Nrthrn Baby
Job Title: Founder
Nic Coaker is the founder of North East based music and culture agency, Nrthrn Baby, an organisation that offers support to the next wave of creatives to help them navigate the music industry, in particular for artists in genres that were previously underrepresented. With a background in publicity, journalism and radio, Nic has always ensured that she’s continued to rep the North East in every corner of her work.
Question 1: Who would you say is someone pivotal to your journey so far?
Matt Pearson, a London based photographer who absolutely smashes everything he does. He’s always been there for any creative brainstorming, idea development and also sharing a lot of insights about the industry which I would have never known before. His podcast Late Invoices has also provided so much insight into the creative industries.
Question 2: Who would be your ideal mentor, and why?
Can’t think of one specific person, but ideally someone who connects brands with culture, would love to see this done by someone pushing brand activations in the North but not sure how likely this is. Would love to be able to work on more brand activations in the North to help bring more exposure to the culture here, including artists, collectives, events and brands.
Question 3: What advice would you give the next Trailblazer looking to break into your field?
Work on what you’re passionate about. Passion is the one thing that will carry you through the tough days. Also, be persistent. Nothing worth having comes overnight, but once you achieve everything you set out to do, you’ll feel a massive sense of accomplishment. Surround yourself with other creatives who inspire you, sometimes being an entrepreneur can feel lonely, but if you have the right people by your side, every day can feel like a creative brainstorm. The best ideas always come when people get together.
Question 4: Who would you like to spotlight as your Trailblazer?
Gabriela Krysa – Senior Operations & Digital Marketing Manager at GRADUATION* + Freelance AR Filter Creator.