Kimberly E. Zouzoua, MBA
Kimberly E. Zouzoua, MBA, is a seasoned nonprofit executive and community-centered leader with over 25 years of experience spanning financial services, nonprofit leadership, and economic development. Currently serving as the Executive Director of NXT | CLT, she leads initiatives that empower emerging entrepreneurs in Charlotte, providing mentorship, capital readiness, and capacity-building programs designed to foster sustainable growth. In addition, Kimberly is the founder of WASIA Consulting, where she helps community organizations launch, scale, and strengthen nonprofit programs with measurable social impact.
Throughout her career, Kimberly has championed the intersection of entrepreneurship, equity, and community development. She previously served as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at the Center for Women & Enterprise (CWE), where she designed and implemented signature initiatives, including the Women of Color Business Summit, to support business leaders and stimulate economic mobility. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes aligning purpose with process, cultivating authentic relationships, and driving practical results that leave a lasting legacy in the communities she serves.
Kimberly’s work is grounded in values of integrity, service, faith, and authenticity. She is an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Sorority Incorporated, chairs the City of Brockton Women’s Commission, and serves on the advisory board for the Massachusetts Cannabis Commission. Outside of her professional endeavors, Kimberly is passionate about global travel, cultural exploration, and music, including performing classical piano, with a career highlight of playing at Carnegie Hall. Her dedication to mentorship, community empowerment, and entrepreneurial growth continues to inspire the next generation of leaders.
• Master of Business Administration
• AS Business Administration
• AS, Business Administration
• AS Finance and Investments
• Northeastern University – MBA, Marketing
• Johnson & Wales University – AS, Business Administration
• Johnson & Wales University – AS, Finance and Investments
• Johnson & Wales University – BS, Management, Finance and Investments, Business Management
• Led community service programs in Brockton that received regional recognition
• Kappa Alpha Psi Sorority Incorporated
• Advisory Board, Massachusetts Cannabis Commission
• Chair, City of Brockton Women’s Commission
• Founder of WASIA Consulting, supporting community organizations to launch and scale initiatives
• Mentorship and program development for emerging entrepreneurs
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith, a strong upbringing, and my willingness to build authentic relationships. Combining operational expertise with a deep commitment to community impact has allowed me to create meaningful change.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received came from leaders and mentors throughout my nonprofit and community work: align purpose with process, focus on practical impact, and cultivate genuine relationships.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be yourself. Overcome fear, build connections through conversation, and trust that your unique voice and experiences are enough. Don’t try to imitate others—your perspective is your power.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is limited capacity within mission-driven organizations. The greatest opportunity lies in intentional collaboration, innovative programming, and investing in community-centered leadership.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, service, faith, authenticity, and leaving a meaningful legacy that creates opportunities for others are central to both my work and personal life.