Prior to accepting the role of President, Zakiya served as the Vice President of Advocacy, the Vice President of Training and Resources and the Director of Partnerships for The Expectations Project. Joining the team in 2015, she has overseen advocacy campaigns, executed learning experiences that emphasize systemic policy changes and fostered meaningful and long-term partnerships with clergy, organizers and activists. Out of college she became a preschool teacher and social worker before becoming the Associate Director of an enrichment program in the highest dropout zone of Nashville.
After getting her MBA in 2012, Jackson pivoted toward issues of advocacy and public policy. She engages in strategic planning and action, helping faith communities and clergy utilize their experience as they advocate for change. In 2020, she ran operations for the Black Church PAC which was heavily involved in organizing voters in Georgia. Zakiya loves to help people grow, heal and transform their pursuit of justice and equity. She believes in addressing deeply rooted problems individually and collectively for liberation. Born and now based again in Washington DC, Zakiya loves long mindful walks, supporting local business, laughing until it hurts and dreaming in color.