Walida Hicks, MBA, ABD

Walida Hicks, MBA, ABD, is an entrepreneur, entertainment professional, educator, and creative leader based in Phoenix, Arizona. She is the Founder and CEO of Urban Zone Radio LLC, a platform dedicated to “Showcasing Great Music Globally,” and the Owner and CEO of Love Lee Entertainment LLC, which focuses on creating and sharing organic stories. With more than two decades of experience spanning entertainment, entrepreneurship, education, and media, Walida has built a career centered on creativity, leadership, and connecting people with opportunities.

Walida began her journey in college radio in 2006 and later expanded her work across broadcasting, music business, and entertainment. Her background also includes extensive experience in performing arts, having danced professionally from a young age and worked with notable performers and artists. She has contributed as a choreographer, backup dancer, talent scout, promoter, and music business instructor, while also dedicating time to teaching dance and mentoring aspiring creatives. Her professional experience with Maricopa Community Colleges further strengthened her leadership and administrative skills, where she supported executives, faculty, and students for more than two decades.

Driven by a passion for innovation, storytelling, and empowering others, Walida continues to develop projects that support independent artists and creative talent. She holds an MBA in Strategic Innovation from Ottawa University and pursued a Doctor of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship at Walden University, reaching ABD status. Among her goals are completing her doctorate, writing a book, launching a podcast, and relaunching Urban Zone Radio. Through her entrepreneurial and educational work, Walida continues to combine business leadership with creativity while creating platforms where artists, students, and emerging professionals can be seen, heard, and supported.