text: Nicole Nearing joined Kik in May 2013, fresh out of university. In keeping with her passion and enthusiasm for keeping Kik communities safe, Nicole became Kik's Trust and Safety manager last month. We asked Nicole about her two loves, user safety and physical activity. What brought you to Kik?
  I had just graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with an undergraduate degree in Criminology. I was searching for a role where I could help develop safety policies and provide safety response outside of a classic law enforcement role. I came across a posting at Kik for a Trust and Safety Ambassador. As soon as I learned more about the role, our target demographic, and the vision of the company, I was sold. What do you love most about working at Kik?
  I would say I love two things equally as much. I really love working for a company where everyone cares so much about our users. There is top-down support throughout the organization for the idea that safety is our biggest priority at Kik, which is great. The second is the people at Kik. I have a bright team that is passionate about advancing user safety, education, and response. What do you do when you're not at work?
  I'm really active, so when I'm not at work I'm usually at the gym, going for a bike ride or on the hills – if it's winter. I enjoy running whether it's on the treadmill or outside, I find it's a really awesome way to decompress. I also coach youth soccer in the summer, which is a ton of fun! If I'm not doing any of these activities, you can usually find me curled up on the couch watching a movie or binge watching a show on Netflix.
  My parents have always told me to be myself. Throughout my early adulthood I've grown to really appreciate the value of this statement. You shouldn't worry or care about other people judging you for things you believe in. The people that matter will never judge you, and the people that do don't matter. Kik