Nicole Friday

Nicole Friday is an esteemed entrepreneur with over 20 years’ experience in the entertainment industry. As an accomplished executive, producer, writer and media personality, Friday has cultivated, empowered, and championed emerging talent and artists of color across film, television, radio and fashion. Nicole Friday currently serves as the President of ABFF Ventures, LLC, a multifaceted entertainment company specializing in the production of live events and branded content. Its mission is to entertain and inspire communities of color while promoting diversity in Hollywood. In this role, Nicole leads several lines of business and oversees multiple functions within the company, including policies, operations, corporate outreach, sponsorship and partner relations. She has been a driving force behind the success and exponential growth of the company, especially its tentpole properties -- the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), ABFF Honors, an annual awards gala saluting the top stars of film and television, ABFF London and its newest event, ABFF Comedy Festival. Friday also serves as the company’s brand ambassador, increasing awareness and fostering partner relationships. Alongside her husband and ABFF Founder, Jeff Friday, Nicole has created and executive produced multiple television shows, including Icons, Idols & Influencers for Magic Johnson’s Aspire Network; and Hollywood Homecoming for IMDb TV. Friday began her career as an agent at Ford Models, where she was on the team that signed model-turned-actor, Boris Kodjoe. From there, Friday joined Emmis Communications as a producer for stations 98.7 Kiss FM, CD 101.9 and Hot 97. While working at Emmis, Friday led major brand/network partnerships including TLC Network. Nicole is also a culinary influencer, whose appearances and credits include The Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay and The Kitchen, as well as the Around the World from Home series, which she launched for Whole Foods Market.