Today we’d like to introduce you to Zakiya Holman

Hi Zakiya, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?

I’ve dedicated my life to being of support to persons who are neurodivergent. I’ve served as a special education teacher, mental health professional and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Currently, I serve in the capacity of Clinical Director for the Center of Social Dynamics. I’ve been fortunate to be engaged in deeply fulfilling work for over 25 years now. I’m aways amazed by the spontaneous interactions I get to have with persons with exceptional needs, daily! I hadn’t a clue that my students would be my greatest teachers, aiding in my personal growth and development. I consider myself fortunate to have the opportunity to observe moments of awe unfold daily whereby children, adolescents and young adults with autism, whose very diagnosis connotes “withdrawal within self,” take audacious actions to transcend “the self,” daily and resource the courage necessary to show up authentically. Likewise do their caregivers. It is their strength and the strength exhibited by mother and guardian angel as she gracefully navigated stage four cancer, that has given me a boldness to orient towards what matters most.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

I’d be lying if I told you that the road to get here was void of twist and turns. Yet, somehow the struggles have added greater depth, breadth, and beauty to my personal and professional journey. You know, the way we choose to conceptualize challenges truly does set the tone for how we navigate them. I’m learning to frame challenges as growth cues aimed at increasing my capacity. One of the greatest challenges I am facing at present is providing care for my elderly father who has been diagnosed with early onset dementia. Caregiving for him while supporting my 15, 19, and 21 year old can be stressful at times. Managing a diverse set of needs can be a daunting task particularly in those moments when diminishing thoughts try to encroach upon my otherwise optimistic outlook. The truth is in the fifteen months of being a care giver to my grieving father I have been provided with renewed strength daily particularly as I streamline my life. Strategies like seeking silence and giving gratitude for witnessing the evidence of grace daily. grounds me. Additionally, navigating the challenging days is made easier when reminding myself of my core values, identity and purpose. On the topic of identity I am reminded of Deepak Chopra’s profound take ” each of us is a soul playing the role of a person. I feel instantly equipped to take on challenges as I ground myself in the truth of my being. Who am I? Love personified!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

Not particularly fond of some of the policies and practices in the public school system and needing to be present for my mother, I decided to pivot to providing home-based clinical treatment for persons with an autism diagnosis and other disabling condition who exhibit socially significant behavior in need of improvement. As a healthcare professional, I provide Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy which includes: assessing behaviors, designing treatment plans, supervising staff implement treatment plans, monitoring progress and being abreast of evidenced based practices. I am most proud of leveraging my skill set to support others in improving their quality of life!

Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.

Risk adverse is a term that seemed to suit me quite well prior to my mom transcending fifteen month’s ago. Now, I know life is far too short to play safe. I am reminded of an ancient scripture that states (loosely paraphrased), “life is like a vapor, we are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” This resonates with me rather deeply. Given our brief jaunt here, we have a duty to take audacious action towards living n enriched life. Whatever that thing is that you know you were designed to do but deferred for far too long, NOW is the time to take action. You deserve to win and will as soon as you decide to do as MLK said “take the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Moving in faith despite our fears opens new pathways, ones that are meant to enrich our lives.

Pricing:

• $13.99 (hardcover)
• $9.99 (paperback)