Who we are.
Founded in 2020, NOMMO Cultural Strategies is a cultural strategy and narrative architecture studio working at the intersection of art, history, culture, and public meaning. We partner with institutions, brands, and creative organizations to shape how Black history and diasporic culture are understood, represented, and engaged in the public sphere.
Our work centers on cultural strategy, narrative development, and intellectual framing. We help partners clarify intent, deepen cultural understanding, and design projects grounded in historical accuracy, ethical engagement, and long-term impact. Rather than producing content, we develop the frameworks that guide it — ensuring stories rooted in African American and diasporic experience are approached with rigor, care, and purpose.
NOMMO is a Black-owned, award-winning, certified minority-owned firm with experience advising leading cultural institutions and global brands. Our work supports organizations navigating questions of representation, memory, and meaning, particularly where culture and public engagement intersect.
Our practice is informed by the West African concept of Nommo — the generative power of the spoken word. Through research, strategy, and narrative design, we help ensure cultural work is not only visible, but responsible, resonant, and enduring.
Our Founder.
Tyree Boyd-Pates is the Founder, CEO, and Principal of NOMMO Cultural Strategies, where he serves as a cultural strategist, historian, and narrative advisor working at the intersection of Black history, public memory, and contemporary culture. Based in Los Angeles, he brings nearly a decade of experience across museums, media, education, and cultural institutions.
As a 2x peer-reviewed author, Tyree’s work examines Black culture through a historical and generational lens, focusing on how narrative, memory, and representation shape public understanding. His scholarship and commentary have been featured by TIME, The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, NPR, and other national outlets. Through research, storytelling, and public engagement, he works to bridge gaps between communities, institutions, and the stories they tell.
In 2020, Tyree founded NOMMO Cultural Strategies to support organizations seeking to engage Black history and diasporic culture with greater depth, accountability, and intention. Under his leadership, NOMMO has advised leading brands, cultural institutions, and creative teams on narrative strategy, cultural frameworks, and public-facing work grounded in historical integrity.
Inspired by the West African concept of NOMMO, the power of the spoken word, Tyree’s practice centers on the belief that language, story, and meaning shape how culture is understood and remembered.
Learn more about his entrepreneurial journey in the video below.
NOMMO’s Advisory Board.
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Dr. Shamell Bell
Advisory Board Member
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Haili Francis
Advisory Board Member
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Lizzy Okoro-Davidson
Advisory Board Member
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Kennedy Mims
Advisory Board Member
Client Testimonials.
Spelman College:
“NOMMO was excellent in its guest speaking contribution to the ECP Art History and Curatorial Studies program at Spelman College. Tyree, its founder, presented curatorial content to our high school students in a way that was both relatable and professional. The students were curious, engaged, and asked insightful questions about the field. Based on their feedback, they were inspired to learn more about African American art history and the curatorial field—an outcome that aligns directly with my goals as an instructor. His presentation on community-focused curation was not only relevant to curatorial practice but also to the students who will one day shape and contribute to the arts canon. I would confidently recommend NOMMO for future speaking engagements on curatorial topics, higher education, and community-centered projects.”
The Ford Theatre:
It was an honor to be in conversation with Tyree Boyd-Pates, founder of NOMMO Cultural Strategies and a long-time colleague. His depth of historical knowledge, thoughtful engagement with the themes we explored, and generosity in sharing insight and resources enriched the entire experience and deeply resonated with the audience.
From higher education to world-renowned cultural institutions and corporate partners, NOMMO Cultural Strategies collaborates with organizations to create meaningful, impactful experiences. Here’s what some of our partners have to say about working with us.
LA Philharmonic:
“NOMMO Cultural Strategies provided the curatorial guidance to stage a successful festival and connect us with new audiences. Their deep knowledge of Los Angeles gospel music history, wise perspective on cultural work, and careful evaluation of our programs were invaluable. It also doesn't hurt that they are a joy to work with, bringing clear communication and enthusiasm to the project every step of the way.”
LEGO Company:
“NOMMO offered our team an informative, thought-provoking, and inspiring presentation session. It was incredibly well received internally, and the presentation was socialized across the entire organization to ensure as many employees as possible could listen to it.”
BeyGOOD Foundation:
"The Black Parade Route started in 2020 to celebrate businesses, their owners, and communities... One of them is NOMMO Cultural Strategies, founded by Tyree Boyd-Pates. Through this Los Angeles-based consultancy, NOMMO advises leading companies on where culture meets strategy, with a focus on African American art, history, and culture — a powerful reflection of BeyGOOD’s founding pillars. Through its unwavering commitment to uplifting the Black experience, its founder is cementing his place in Black history—and we’re honored to be part of his and its legacy of GOOD."
Ubisoft: