Nigel Hughes is a seasoned leadership mentor, serial entrepreneur, conservation advocate, and lifelong creative whose journey began with an act of courage at just thirteen—choosing ballet over the Marines simply because he wanted to inspire rather than harm. From decades spent as a professional performer to leading global humanitarian, conservation, and leadership initiatives, Nigel’s story is rooted in authenticity, compassion, and purpose.
Humans of Fuzia is proud to feature Nigel for his unwavering commitment to empowering individuals and communities to rise with integrity, mindfulness, and heart. His journey brings immense value to our global community of 5 million creators, entrepreneurs, and leaders—reminding us that true leadership begins when we dare to be ourselves. At Fuzia, we stand for He for She and She for She, and voices like Nigel’s strengthen this mission.
1. You’ve had an incredibly diverse journey—performer, activist, entrepreneur, conservationist. What first sparked your entrepreneurial spirit?
It all began when I was thirteen. During a school careers panel, they told me I should join the Marines. I looked at them and said, “Thank you, but I’m going to do ballet.” For me, choosing ballet meant choosing inspiration over harm. That was the moment I realized I needed to be Nigel Ronald Hughes, not who others wanted me to be. That decision became the foundation for every entrepreneurial step I’ve taken—standing up for who I am, speaking my truth, and following the path that feels right, even if it’s unconventional.
2. With your latest venture, Outstanding Global, who are the people you most want to serve?
I believe everyone can be a leader—leadership is purposeful, not positional. While I often work with C-suite professionals, my work isn’t limited to titles. Anyone in an organization who wants to stand up for who they are, bring their gifts forward, and act ethically—I’d be honored to support them. I’ve worked with many remarkable clients, and I look forward to empowering more.
3. What changes or benefits do you see in people who go through your leadership work?
People become more open-hearted. They learn to listen instead of judge. They align their diverse teams around a shared vision where everyone’s strengths matter. Ultimately, they transform into leaders who uplift—not dominate. I call it: One team. One vision. One road.
4. Many in our community struggle with imposter syndrome. Have you faced it? How do you deal with it?
Oh yes—many times. I call it the inner critic, that little voice sitting on my shoulder telling me I’m not good enough. Sometimes I hide away, sometimes I doubt myself deeply. But eventually, I turn to that voice and say, “Shut up.” Courage shows up when we do—even when we’re scared. Some days I wake up thinking I’m not prepared or informed enough for what lies ahead. But leadership is about showing up anyway.
5. Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently as an entrepreneur?
I would have paid more attention to finances! My philosophy has always been: If I’m doing the right thing, the finances will come. And while that has worked to an extent, having a clearer financial plan would have made life easier. Thankfully, in my current work, I have a brilliant finance manager who challenges me daily and keeps me grounded.
6. You’ve created massive impact—from rainforest conservation to community empowerment. What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I’m fortunate that some of my legacy is already standing—literally. The 2,000 square miles of protected Papua New Guinea rainforest, and the millions of trees planted in the UK, are symbols of humanity’s connection to nature. But beyond that, my greatest legacy is the people I’ve inspired, encouraged, and empowered to stand in their truth and build their own legacies. If individuals and the planet thrive a little more because of my work, that’s enough.
7. What does success mean to you today?
I love Ralph Waldo Emerson’s definition of success, and it guides me every day:
“To laugh often and much,
To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children,
To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends,
To appreciate beauty,
To find the best in others,
To leave the world a bit better…
To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived—
This is to have succeeded.”
8. Is there anything upcoming that excites you?
Yes—deeply. I’m honored to be working in India with the UNESCO Peacekeeping Mission. To support a team already making such a profound difference in humanity is humbling. Together, we aim to amplify harmony, talent, skill, and peace. I’m truly looking forward to it.
“In the end, leadership is simply about standing in your truth and helping others discover theirs—without harming anyone and always honoring nature.”
Connect with Nigel Hughes
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigel-hughes-outstanding-global
https://www.outstanding.global/
Want to be featured?
If you’d like to be featured in the Humans of Fuzia series, email us at fuziatalent@fuzia.com.
