Her Story
About Dr. Zahkwee
I've been in finance for about 11 years with experience in cash logistics, loan servicing, mortgage servicing, banking, and business strategy. This led to my current role overseeing finance, budget, grants, and procurement for the Dallas Fire Department, which has the second largest budget in the city after police. A typical day involves reviewing expenditures, finding efficiencies, fighting for more funding, and touring fire stations. I earned my bachelor's midway through my career, followed by a master's and an MBA that helped me move into leadership roles where I enjoy coaching and mentoring. I completed my doctorate in December 2025, which has made me more competitive.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dr. Zahkwee
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being coachable and having great mentors along the way who wanted to help me. I also credit God and going to church for helping me stay grounded and grateful for experiences, whether negative or positive.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I received is to be coachable. Once I got that advice, I didn't take feedback personally but saw it as a way to develop, which changed my trajectory and launched me into leadership.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women not to be intimidated, especially in male-dominated fields like finance. Push through, be confident, stay consistent, and be coachable. Nine times out of ten, we're smarter than most of the men in the room anyway.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is dealing with antiquated practices from the older generation in local public safety. They resist modern efficiencies, analytics, and technology, though people are receptive if you show them the benefits.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In work, integrity and being dependable are most important. In personal life, loyalty and integrity. Integrity is the biggest one overall.
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