Nicole Persley is an artist and real estate investor based in Tampa, Florida. She discovered significant family history during her research, learning that her grandfather was African American, a revelation that deeply influenced her personal identity and artistic journey. Persley's great-uncle, Louis Persley, was Georgia's first registered Black architect, known for his contributions to Tuskegee University. Nicole's exploration of her heritage has shaped her storytelling and art, including her involvement in projects that celebrate her African American roots​