Alexis Nikole Nelson

Alexis Nikole Nelson, known on social media as Black Forager, is a forager, vegan cook, outdoor educator, and internet personality recognized for making foraging accessible and culturally relevant. Nelson is a graduate of Ohio State University, where she earned degrees in environmental science and theater. She is known for her engaging videos that highlight foraging techniques, plant identification, and vegan cooking, often filmed in local parks or residential neighborhoods. Her content emphasizes that foraging is approachable for a wide audience.

Nelson began documenting her foraging experiences on Instagram, sharing how she finds, prepares, and eats wild foods. The Black Forager brand expanded to platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, where Nelson has amassed millions of followers. She educates viewers on identifying, harvesting, and cooking edible wild plants and mushrooms, including dandelions and various fungi. Her posts frequently discuss the indigenous roots of foraging in America, the history of foraging laws, and sustainable practices for incorporating wild foods into modern diets. Nelson also addresses the historical significance of foraging in Black communities, highlighting its role in survival and food sovereignty.

After overcoming personal challenges related to eating disorders and cultural stigma, Nelson found that foraging helped her reconnect with food and her heritage. She has shared her journey on platforms such as NPR's TED Radio Hour, discussing how nature provided both nourishment and a sense of cultural identity. Her story resonates with audiences interested in food, wellness, and environmental education.

Nelson's contributions have been recognized with several honors in the culinary and media industries. She received the James Beard Award for Best Social Media Account and has been included in Forbes 30 Under 30, Fortune Magazine's Creator 25, and the TIME100 Creators list. National Geographic featured her in its inaugural "33" list of visionaries and innovators for her work in promoting foraging as a tool for environmental stewardship.

Beyond social media, Nelson has appeared on programs such as "The Kelly Clarkson Show," "The Drew Barrymore Show," and "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" Her episode on "Eat This with Yara" titled "The Awful Truth About 'No Trespassing' Signs" received the Outstanding Lifestyle Program award at the Daytime Emmy Awards. She has also contributed to educational initiatives, including a 15-episode botany series for the YouTube channel Crash Course. Nelson is the author of "Happy Snacking, Don't Die!," a guide to foraging and vegan cooking published by Simon & Schuster, further establishing her influence at the intersection of food, ecology, and social justice.