Nicole holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from California State University, Long Beach, and an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts from Santa Monica College.

During her time at Cal State Long Beach, Nicole coordinated a campus-wide event highlighting the profound influence of art on humanity and produced several broadcast programs for Adelphia Public Access Television. Her passion for the visual arts and photography was nurtured early on by her mother, a budding Belizean artist and lifelong employee at one of Los Angeles’ major fine art museums.

Nicole is a dedicated community leader, active in faith-based and cultural initiatives. She served on the Board of Council at St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Los Angeles, where she also held the position of Treasurer. Guided by the motto “God’s work, our hands,” she has continually sought to uplift her community through service, collaboration, and cultural celebration. Nicole spearheads the annual Central American and Caribbean Festival, an event devoted to promoting Belizean culture and honoring the shared heritage of the region. She currently sits on St. Mark’s Scholarship and Nominating committee. Nicole also serves on the board of the Preservation of Belizean History and Culture Foundation. Founded by her father, Karl Villanueva, based in Chicago, Illinois. In addition to preserving art and culture, the Preservation of Belizean History and Culture has partnered with the Mark Villanueva Peace Foundation (MVP) to provide tuition assistance and school supplies to underserved students in Belize. Each September, they host a free community event in Rogers Park, Illinois, featuring live music, food, and entertainment from across the diaspora. This highly regarded gathering honors Nicole’s youngest brother, Mark “Peachie” Villanueva, a promising production engineer whose life was tragically cut short due to mistaken identity.

Nicole currently works as an Account Manager at a business management firm serving high-net-worth clients in sports and entertainment. She is known for her results-driven approach, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and strong moral compass. Her empathy, integrity, and commitment to service allow her to connect with people from all walks of life.

Nicole remains guided by a simple yet profound aspiration: to foster peace, of heart, mind, body, and soul, within her community and beyond.