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Meet Zakiya M. Knighten, B.A., M.S.A.
SPEAKER | EDUCATOR | ADVOCATE
“If they can’t learn from the way I teach, I teach the way they learn.”
At the age of three, Zakiya had found her place in the world and wasn’t even old enough to understand it. It was a place where she could shine and exhibit the two things that she was born to do, lead and speak. She was CENTER STAGE! While most children were afraid, Zakiya was at home on the stage, whether she was singing or speaking. This was just the beginning...
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Born in Metropolitan Detroit, Zakiya or “Z”, as she is better known, grew up as a typical happy child in River Rouge, Michigan, not realizing that she was in the midst of poverty. It was after moving to Southwest Detroit (often referred to as Delray), that she was exposed to the harsh realities of drugs, addiction, poverty and violence, within her home. Yet, she still believed that she would be successful, despite her surroundings.
Through the love and support of her mentors, “Z” aspired to reach an even greater level of success. She graduated as Salutatorian from River Rouge High School, receiving a full scholarship to attend Marygrove College. In August, 1996, Zakiya’s faith was challenged, as she was involved in a car accident that resulted in injuries so severe that she lost the scholarship. However, in an unprecedented turn of events, the scholarship was returned and Zakiya started school in January; only to become pregnant two
months later. Despite many obstacles, “Z” never relented. She continued her education and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Marygrove College with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Criminal Justice. Her education also includes a Master of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University.
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AS A SPEAKER & EDUCATOR
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Zakiya is regarded as vivacious and pragmatic. She is distinguished by her commitment to service; passion for empowerment; and emphasis on love. However, it is her unique eloquence and quirky sense of humor that allows her to win over and impact even the toughest audiences. As a result, she founded Last Letter Enterprises, LLC which includes Zakiya Monique & Company, LLC (a consulting firm for motivationa/keynote speaking and training); Dauntless Knight Publishing, LLC; and Knighten Naturals (her natural skincare business that is currently in more than 25 states within the U.S.). She has hosted three national conferences.
AS AN ADVOCATE
“Z” volunteers at the local schools and serves on the boards of community organizations that provide mentorship with the mission of eradicating violence, fostering healthy relationships and encouraging self-love and improvement. She is adamant with regards to her involvement in mentorship, as she remembers how richly it impacted her life, and she takes every opportunity to pay it forward. Yet, she advocates, first and foremost, for her two children, Raishaun and Robert, who so selflessly, share her with the world.
