MEET NYAKIO GRIECO, VIVA LA AMBASSADOR
Today we have the distinct pleasure of introducing you to our latest Viva LA Ambassador, Nyakio Grieco. Nyakio (pronounced Neh-Kay-Oh) is the founder of nyakio Beauty, a clean, cruelty free skincare line infused with globally sourced ingredients inspired by beauty traditions. She's also a co-founder of Thirteen Lune, an e-commerce destination designed to inspire the discovery of beauty brands created by Black and Brown founders that resonate with people of all colors.
Fueled by creativity and authenticity, It is no wonder that Nyakio positively glows inside and out. Read on to hear about what keeps her inspired and creating!
Please tell us a bit about yourself in your own words!
I’m Nyakio Grieco, the founder of nyakio Beauty and co-founder of the new inclusive beauty retail platform, Thirteen Lune.
I was inspired to create nyakio Beauty almost two decades ago out of my apartment in LA, and launched at former local retailer, Ron Robinson at Fred Segal. The brand recently launched nationwide at select Target stores. My career was born and bred in LA and this year marks my 25th year of living in this city I love so much!
What do you love most about living in LA?
I love that LA is a city that attracts dreamers. So many people move to Los Angeles to achieve their greatest manifestations and this city gives you permission to dream big. I appreciate living in a place where our creative community truly supports and lifts one another in our pursuits.
If you could change one thing about LA what would it be?
If I could change one thing about LA it would be creating greater opportunities to build generational wealth and equity in our underserved communities and better support our displaced and homeless community.
Why did you choose the Viva LA items that you received?
I chose the Viva LA ColorWings sweatshirt and Logo sweatpants because after a year of working from home, I’m on the constant hunt to up my chic sweats game!
How will you style them?
I will absolutely add my own personal style of layered jewelry and my favorite sneakers to my Viva LA look!
What keeps you inspired?
What keeps me inspired is my tribe of family, friends and community. I'm truly inspired by circling. I have been attending circles (now virtual) with Andrea Bendewald who created The Art of Circling. We started in her tipi in Coldwater Canyon 15 years ago - gathering every month on the full moon to manifest, wish, release what doesn’t serve us, and to actively listen and support one another. Andrea hosts public and private circles all over the city and now virtually on zoom. The practice has inspired me to dream beyond what I thought was possible in my own life.
I’m also incredibly inspired by the members of Girls Inc. of Los Angeles. I’m so lucky to mentor young girls in the program which inspires them to be strong, smart and bold. The girls remind me how important it is to inspire the next generation of powerhouse women.
What do you think of when you are in need of inspiration and a pick-me-up?
The beach !
What's your favorite message of hope?
“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” -Maya Angelou
Who are some of your favorite artists?
My favorite bronze sculptor is David Grieco. David is a self taught artist who finds his greatest expression through nature and true study of the human soul. He also developed a line of wearable art called Justice Bodan, where he used the lost wax process to create belt buckles and jewelry.
I also get the privilege of living this life as his wife raising our amazing kids together!
I also love Jason Trotter’s work. He’s an incredible painter whose minimalist work compliments any environment and his use of color and tone with bold stripes elevate the spaces they inhabit.
I’m obsessed with the crystal boxes created by Courtney at The Urban + the Mystic.
I also love Victoria Kray’s collection, Vega Jewelry. Recently, I commissioned a couple of her beautiful hand made magic wands that she adorns with vintage crystals. Her jewelry is incredible and inspired by her work at Victory Astrology. She is truly the best cosmic consultant in LA! Run don’t walk to book a session with her - she’s the best!
What are you most excited to do once COVID is over?
TRAVEL EVERYWHERE and hug everyone I haven’t gotten to hold in a year!