Zakiya Harris

IAC Performing Arts Ambassador

Native of: Queens, New York

Alma Mater/Degree: Hampton University - BA in Psychology. New York University - MA in Dance Education

Occupation: Dance Educator for New York City Department of Education and the  Co-founder and Artistic Director of Asase Yaa School of the Arts.

History of non-profit work: Asase Yaa, dedicated to fulfill our core tenets to Enrich, Educate, Entertain and promote the importance of cultural performing arts to youth and adults in our community. 

HBCU Hub, founded to help spread awareness to NYC youth about the benefits of attending a Historically Black College or University.

Board member of the Rohan Levy Foundation, with a mission is to combat gun violence in Brooklyn communities of color and low socioeconomic status, through education, awareness and public policy.

Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

Favorite travel destination: Brazil, specifically Salvador da Bahia. It's so rich in music, food, dance and African culture. The people are so beautiful.

Hobbies: Traveling, playing mas, collecting shot glasses from different countries

What inspires me: The children that I teach everyday inspire me to be better because I know that I am an example to them of what they can achieve and more.  

I believe travel can…expose one to all the possibilities life has to offer.

Favorite quote: “When in Doubt..... Dance."