Since earning her BA from Temple ('03), Nikiya Mathis has went on to earn her MFA from NYU Tisch School of the Arts, has starred in Off-Broadway premieres like The Brother/Sister Plays and Skeleton Crew. Her TV credits include The Last O.G. and Snowfall.

Apart from acting, Nikiya founded ActTRESSES Design & Consulting Agency, focusing on wig design and styling for actors of color in film, TV, and theater. Her work has graced stars like Anika Noni Rose and André Holland and appeared in shows like Luke Cage and Jessica Jones. Her design was most recently seen on Broadway in Jaja's African Hair Braiding.

Nikiya is also an educator, leading "HAIRversations" workshops for actors of color and teaching hair design at institutions such as NYU Tisch. Her contributions span both performance and design, making a significant impact in the entertainment industry.