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Check Out Nakoma’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nakoma.

Hi Nakoma, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always had a passion for entertaining and making people smile — it started way back when I lived in New York, working in the entertainment industry as an actress, model, and even doing pageants. After moving to Florida in my 20s, the entertainment scene was smaller, but I eventually found my way back, working as a dancer at Rachel’s South. That experience not only reignited my love for entertaining but taught me the value of a true work family.

Through that, I met a photographer, got back into modeling — especially pin-up, which I love — and even landed acting roles in indie films that aired on cable and streaming platforms. That journey led me to become business partners with the incredible Nicola Cuti, an award winning writer,, with whom I ran a successful indie production company producing sci-fi and horror films, comics, and books. We traveled to conventions, giving back by inspiring underprivileged children to embrace reading and creativity. After Nicola’s passing in 2020, I shifted my focus but carried those lessons with me.

While pursuing entertainment, I also built Lioness Properties, a real estate solutions company focused on revitalizing neighborhoods and providing affordable housing. We expanded into credit repair, staging, and interior design — even winning Best Interior Design and Staging Company from Build Magazine in 2019. I earned my real estate license, numerous certifications, and now work with a global network of investors, holding specialties like Certified International Property Specialist and Dubai International Property Consultant. I currently have my license hung at an amazing brokerage, Iron Valley Real Estate Central Florida. I love it there. My broker is very understanding and supportive and there is a family type of atmosphere there, which I greatly appreciate.

Yet, I always felt something was missing. I went back to school, double majoring in Pre-Law and Criminal Psychology, but my heart still pulled toward the entertainment world. After recovering from a serious car accident and taking time away, I competed in pageants again and was honored to be crowned Ms. Sunshine State 2021 World Universal and Ms. Florida 2022 World Universal, which afforded me the incredible opportunity to walk the runway at New York Fashion Week — a lifelong dream come true. But I still missed being in front of the camera, and after I spoke to someone close to me who made me realize my passion is entertaining, and giving me the confidence to return, I stepped back in front of the camera a year ago, landing a pin-up cover just two weeks later — my first in nearly a decade. Since then, I’ve been nonstop with modeling, publications, and now, auditioning for films again. It feels like coming full circle — combining my entrepreneurial spirit with my lifelong love for entertainment.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Is any journey ever truly smooth? For me, the answer is a definite no. Everything I’ve earned — every accomplishment, every opportunity — has come through hard work, determination, and perseverance. Nothing was handed to me.
I didn’t have the easiest start in life. I faced a difficult childhood that left me battling CPTSD, something that still follows me today. I’ve had people tell me I wasn’t good enough to be in certain rooms, that I didn’t deserve the things I worked for, or that I didn’t belong because of my career choices or the life I chose to live. I’ve even had my CPTSD used against me in moments when I was trying to give back, like when I tried to elevate my volunteer work in real estate and was told I lacked leadership because of an episode — without anyone bothering to understand the full story.

And then there was the car accident — a life-changing moment that put my entertainment career on hold for nearly a decade. It would’ve been easy to give up, but that’s never been in my nature. Through it all, I’ve been lucky to have my incredible, supportive husband by my side — lifting me up emotionally when the odds felt stacked against me.
No, the road hasn’t been easy. But every struggle, every battle, every moment of doubt has shaped me into the person I am today — someone who’s determined, who doesn’t judge others by their past, who would give the shirt off their back to help someone else (and I have). Those hardships made me resilient, compassionate, and unshakable in my mission to break barriers and open doors — not just for myself, but for others.

My name is Nakoma — a Native American name meaning Brave Wandering Warrior. And that’s exactly who I am. I will always face challenges head-on, and I will never stop fighting for the life and purpose I know I deserve.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At my core, I’m a businesswoman — but if you ask me what I really do, it’s simple: I put a smile on someone’s face at the end of the day, no matter what industry I’m working in.

In the entertainment world, I’m a pin-up and glamour model, and an actress. If you ask me my favorite role to play, hands down, it’s being in a horror film — whether I’m the victim who gets killed off or the psychopath causing the chaos, I love diving into those intense characters.

In real estate, I work with a global network of investors and specialize in helping them navigate the market with integrity and confidence. Whether it’s real estate, entertainment, or any other project, what sets me apart is my work ethic. I believe in good business practices, showing up — on time, prepared, and ready to work — and treating everyone with respect. That’s true in real estate, where we have a Code of Ethics as REALTORS®, but I believe that same standard should apply in all areas of life.

If you asked me, I’d tell you I’m just like anyone else. But if you ask the people I’ve worked with, they’d say I stand out because of my communication, my reliability, and my willingness to always go the extra mile — regardless of the situation.

But the accomplishment I’m most proud of? It has nothing to do with business or titles. It’s being a mom. Raising my son to be a kind, strong, and productive member of society — that’s my greatest achievement, and nothing else even comes close.

Any big plans?
World domination… just kidding — sort of.

In all seriousness, my plans for the future are all about growth, both personally and professionally. I’m currently working toward finishing college, with plans to continue on to law school. I’ve always believed in finishing what I start, and I genuinely enjoy learning — it’s part of what keeps me driven.

At the same time, I’m focused on growing my brand and expanding my work in entertainment. I’ve been in talks with agents and managers, and I’m actively searching for the right fit. For me, it’s not just about opportunity — it’s about aligning with people who share my values and work ethic.

On the home front, my husband and I are about to enter a new chapter as empty nesters, which will be a big change. But staying busy with work and new projects will keep me balanced and motivated.

Long-term, one of my biggest goals is to start a philanthropy project dedicated to helping survivors of trauma — especially children. As someone who has faced trauma myself, I know how life-changing it can be to have the right support. I’d love to be part of providing that for others.

The future holds a lot of change, but I’ve never been one to shy away from a challenge — I’m excited for what’s ahead.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
It takes a team to make me look good 😉 Below are the people that deserve credit.

Photographer for Magazine Publications: Don Cross Photography

Hair: Kensington Beltran

Wigs: Wigs.com (Raquel Welsh Unfiltered)

Nails: Saynelli Sanchez (Bloom Nails)

Tattoos: Jime Litwalk

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