Her name, Nia, comes from the fifth day of Kwanzaa and represents "life purpose
" Was coached in acting for 15 years by Betty Bridges, mother of Todd Bridges
Began her career with an uncredited appearance in a 1986 episode of the sitcom 227
Won back-to-back Image Awards for her role in Third Watch (2004 and 2005)
Received the first Essence of Being Extraordinary Award from the charity HerShe Group, which gives assistance to girls in foster care as they transition into adulthood
Posed naked for a PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) ad in 2009