Nikki 'Z' of Zip 103 at Stone Love's Weddi-Weddi 2nd Anniversary last July. - Colin Hamilton/Freelance Photographer

Andre Jebbinson, Staff Reporter

A return to Jamaica for Nicole 'Nikki Z' Duhaney meant she was ready to take her career to the next level. Originally from St. Elizabeth, Nikki Z migrated to the United States where she did freelance work for Comedy Central and BET. Nikki Z is currently on ZIP FM from 6 a.m.-10 a.m. and Hype T.V., hosting VTX (top 10 countdown) and Up N Live.

The Gleaner: How did you get started in the media?

Nikki Z: I started when I was 16, promoting shows with my godfather, and by the age of 21, after hosting a big stage show in Hartford, Connecticut, I was asked by radio jock Donavon Longmore from 88.1 in Hartford to pass through his show and, basically, I never left. From there I got called by the commercial station Jamz 910 to host the Caribbean show and that is when I knew it was radio for me.

What is your dream job?

To have my own successful programme on BET. A show unlike others, where I get to not only connect US with what is hot in Jamaica, but to connect US to all the progress and possibilities that reggae and dancehall have provided and has to offer. A show that, while it looks at the struggle and realness of it, still gives you the personality and humorous side too.

What is your best moment working in the media?

Wow, tough one! When I was working at Power 104.1 in Hartford and Damion 'Jr. Gong' Marley came through for an interview that ended up lasting over an hour; being in the legendary episode of the Dave Chappelle Show; winning Zip Jockette Of the Year. When this little girl like age six came up to me at the pavilion and goes 'Nikki Z Anywaaaaaayyyyyyy!' (laugh). I can't pick only one.

Have you been faced with negative remarks?

All the time, but over the years you get used to it. I didn't get into entertainment to please anyone; I got in it because it is what I have always loved. From the beginning there have always been people trying to put nails in my path, but at this point I thank them. If it wasn't for those individuals, I wouldn't fight as hard at what I do every day.

If not radio/television, what would you be doing?

Flight attendant. I have to move. I have to be free to see the world, basically, whether it is by travelling to host a show on a new island or country or travelling for work from one destination to the next. I tried office work and trust me, it never lasted.

What is your favourite show (local or international)?

E News!

Who are your favourite media personalities (local or international)?

Wendy Williams, Star N Buckwild, Oprah, Sunshine, Mutabaruka, Dahved Levy, Ryan Seacrest.

What turns you off about people?

Fake. We all have to play hypocrite to some point, but it is how deep you take it. If you don't like me, I am OK with that. Please don't ever feel you have to fake that. I tell people straight I am a loner; I prefer not to mix around and hang out in groups because to me you never know who is real.

If you could meet any one person, who would he/she be?

Oprah (Winfrey).

What is one thing that people would be surprised to know about you?

I spent four years in the army, six months in Saudi Arabia, but at the same time I am a complete girlie girl!