Today we’d like to introduce you to Nathan Duguid.
Hi Nathan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’d say my story has always been about finding the right balance between creativity, community, and impact. I grew up in the Greater Newark, New Jersey area, surrounded by rich culture and powerful stories of resilience. That environment shaped me—not just as a person, but as an artist and advocate. And with Guyanese and Jamaican roots, I developed a deep respect for storytelling, culture, and fighting for justice.
Music came first. I’ve always been drawn to creating songs that move people—literally and spiritually. Under the name Miztyk, I fuse hip-hop, jazz, neo-soul, and gospel to craft music that’s honest, introspective, and purpose-driven. My songs are a reflection of my journey and my prayers, like “Every Time” where I have a back-and-forth dialogue with God about heartbreak.
But I’m not just about music. I care deeply about empowering young people to claim their voices and transform society. That’s what led me to found the Young Voters Association (YVA)—an organization designed to revolutionize civic engagement for people aged 16 to 25. Whether it’s through my work as a writer, activist, or artist, my mission stays the same: inspire thought, foster community, and be a voice for real change.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Definitely not a smooth road—there have been twists, setbacks, and plenty of struggles along the way. One of the hardest battles has been with my own mental health. Balancing the pressures of chasing your purpose is rarely easy. There have been moments when the weight of expectations—both from myself and the world—felt overwhelming. I’ve faced anxiety, self-doubt, and those dark seasons where it felt like everything I was building could come crashing down.
What got me through wasn’t sheer willpower—it was surrender. Building a true, personal relationship with Jesus changed everything for me. In those moments when I felt lost or broken, I learned how to lean on God instead of trying to carry it all myself. Prayer became my anchor, and God’s grace reminded me that I didn’t have to be perfect to be worthy. My music became an extension of that journey—like a prayer in sound—because I know firsthand how it feels to cry out for guidance and strength. That faith helped me find purpose in every setback. Every challenge, every dark moment, has only made me more determined to walk in the light and help others find theirs too.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Like I mentioned before, I’m the founder of the Young Voters Association (YVA), a nonprofit organization empowering young people aged 16 to 25 to engage in civic life. YVA envisions a future where young voices are the cornerstone of democracy—a society where youth are informed, engaged, and empowered to lead. By fostering a centralized platform for advocacy, collaboration, and representation, YVA strives to establish a unified identity for young people in politics, amplifying their collective impact and ensuring their perspectives shape local, national, and global decisions. I’m particularly excited for how YVA can fill gaps by amplifying the efforts of advocacy groups instead of competing with them.
What sets me apart is my ability to bridge creativity and activism in a way that resonates deeply with young people. I speak their language—whether through music, writing, or other initiatives—and I use those platforms to inspire real change. One of my proudest achievements is simply staying grounded in my faith while navigating these different worlds. My relationship with Jesus is what keeps me humble, passionate, and determined to use my talents for a purpose greater than myself.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happiest is seeing people inspired—when something I’ve said, written, or created sparks a new thought, a sense of hope, or a desire to act. Creating music brings me joy because it’s where I’m most free. Writing a song is like having a conversation with God and the world at the same time—there’s beauty in being able to express my thoughts, struggles, and victories in a way that others can connect with.
But more than anything, my relationship with Jesus makes me happy. It gives me peace that isn’t tied to achievements or external success. Knowing that I’m loved and guided by God, even when life feels uncertain or overwhelming, fills me with joy and purpose. That’s the foundation for everything I do, and it’s why I can find happiness even in life’s toughest moments.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themiztyk
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanduguid/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2pOQoVB5tg_h5VE-iJV_yQ
Image Credits
Moutar Sampil