Featured Member: Zakiya Gilles on HBCU CONNECT!

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Q&A With Zakiya Gilles

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Zakiya Gilles
Location: Greensboro , NC
Joined: Aug 11th, 2025

About (request update)

Zakiya Gilles is a senior marketing scholar at North Carolina A&T State University with a 3.9 GPA and a passion for purpose-driven brand strategy. As the founder of Breezy Cosmetics, she empowers women through beauty and entrepreneurship. She has gained national marketing experience as an Ally Financial Racing Marketing Intern, developing campaigns that merge creativity, sports, and financial literacy. Serving as a Thurgood Marshall College Fund Ambassador, Zakiya represents her university on a national stage while mentoring peers. Known for her leadership, innovation, and ability to connect brands with diverse audiences, she is committed to creating marketing that drives representation, access, and impact.

Education (request update)

North Carolina A&T State University class of 2026

Undergrad Major: Marketing

Claim To Fame:

My claim to fame in college is being a multi-hyphenate leader who merges entrepreneurship, marketing expertise, and advocacy to create impact. From launching Breezy Cosmetics at 15 to interning with Ally Financial on national sports marketing campaigns, to serving as a Thurgood Marshall College Fund Ambassador representing North Carolina A&T on a national stage, I have built a brand for myself as someone who is bold, innovative, and deeply committed to uplifting others. I am known on campus as a connector, the person who bridges opportunities, creates platforms for others, and shows that ambition and authenticity can thrive together.

Most Memorable Moment:

One of my most memorable moments was being selected to emcee on stage for Ally Financial during the Thurgood Marshall College Fund Leadership Institute. With only 30 minutes to prepare my script, I had to think on my feet, engage a national audience, and embody the spirit of agility and confidence. Another unforgettable experience was studying abroad in Dubai, where I co-launched an artisanal oils and coffee business that reached five-figure sales. These moments pushed me outside my comfort zone, strengthened my leadership skills, and proved that my voice and vision can make an impact anywhere in the world.