From my Twitter Post regarding NIKI’s character:
There's something I want to point out about this video of Niki. Beyond how it showcases the energy he's put into being a crucial team-player throughout this show... It also shows that he understands HOW to be a well-tempered team leader/teacher.
Niki's way of speaking to his team members is clear, strong, and yet considerate. Notice he never becomes unnecessarily insulting? He doesn't use a condescending tone or judge people. He genuinely watches and critiques, and gives solid advice to build up the team.
There have been too many mentors on this show, who seem to believe that being LOUD, or humiliating their students, will force them to change. Niki understands how to gain respect, deliver tasteful critique, and uplift his entire team- both in quality and morale.
Niki is a 14-year-old boy, far from home, speaking a foreign language, on a show which continues to scapegoat him/diminish his spirit for drama's sake. He's had to be on his toes this entire journey... starting with the 1st performance having to switch to the center position...
Then being sent to the Ground, where he spent weeks as the de facto dance coach. He saw his team fall short again and again- including when he stepped up for the special stage- and continued to blame himself for the shortcomings. But still he got up again, to lead his team.
And when he finally made it to the I-Land in 10th place, he was still gracious, lively, humble, and supportive of his teammates. While others deliberated over unfair rankings, Niki- who has arguably worked as hard as/harder than anyone- remained positive and self-responsible.
So, with all of this as context, it becomes even more sad to see how Niki's been treated. Even just trying to add one extra dance move, was enough to frame his entire character as selfish. When he's many times shown himself as helpful, self-responsible, warm-hearted, and mature.
Of course Niki has shortcomings, and more to learn- don't they all? But I think it's a misjudgment of character to say that he, of all people, stands out as a lacking team player. How so? Because when he's not commonly helping others, he dares to think outside of the box?
It's this same quality of self-assuredness, that allows Niki to be the productive leader/genuine friend that anyone paying attention has seen. His ability to think for himself is a GIFT, which should be cultivated, rather than sabotaged. It also makes him a strong creative force.
Niki is literally that meme of "He was a poem, but they couldn't read." He's had perhaps one of the most tumultuous journeys this entire season, which he's actively taken to heart and grown from... And I just wish people could see his true spirit and potential.
If you’ve read through this and agree, please consider retweeting the original tweet. Niki could use more defense and votes. Thank you!!
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