Hi, I’m Zakiya

Zakiya Hakizimana is a native of Fort Lauderdale, Florida and has been writing poetry and short stories since her quiet days in elementary school. Finding her voice, Zakiya was published in a local magazine during middle school whilst winning a writing contest. She was also published in the Tea Literary Magazine during her sophomore year while attending the University of Florida.

Kiyaza the Poet emerged as Zakiya’s pseudonym, to showcase her writing talents in her debut book of published poetry titled “Lost Between the Sheets”. This unique compilation of poems shares her personal journey through relationships, friendships, and life experiences as a black woman in America spanning over the last twenty years.

In addition to her writing, Zakiya created Water Lily Studios, an innovative platform for designing journals and planners that serve as tools to help individuals navigate their emotions, set meaningful goals, and stay focused on their personal growth. Through her creative work, she aims to provide a space for reflection, empowerment, and the realization of dreams.

When not writing, Zakiya is a bit of a flaneuse, exploring quirky coffee shops, reading books on the beach, and watching period films followed by her speaking Victorian for a week.