Her Story
About ZaKiyah
ZaKiyah Timmons is an aging-services professional dedicated to enhancing the quality of life, independence, and social-emotional well-being of older adults through person-centered care. Her career in long-term care began in high school when she became a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), an experience that introduced her to the importance of connection, dignity, purpose, and meaningful relationships in the lives of older adults. That early experience grew into a career dedicated to creating environments where older adults feel valued, engaged, and empowered.
Today, ZaKiyah serves as the Activity Director at Harmony Cedar Rapids, where she leads the development and implementation of social, recreational, and emotional wellness programs for residents. She is passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for residents to connect with others, maintain a sense of purpose, and continue participating in activities that reflect their individual interests, abilities, identities, and life experiences. Her approach to activities extends beyond entertainment, focusing on whole-person wellness and creating experiences that promote belonging, engagement, and quality of life.
Prior to her current role, ZaKiyah gained extensive experience as a CNA, CNA instructor, mentor, and staff-development professional. These experiences provided her with a unique perspective on both sides of long-term care and strengthened her passion for caregiver education, mentorship, and person-centered practices. She has developed programs to support newer caregivers, created educational resources, and advocated for approaches that recognize the importance of both resident and staff well-being.
ZaKiyah's educational background includes a Bachelors degree in Family Services and Gerontology from the University of Northern Iowa, with a minor in Mental Health. Her interest in gerontology is rooted in understanding aging from a social and emotional perspective and recognizing older adults as whole individuals rather than focusing solely on their clinical or physical needs. Her academic and professional experiences have included developing programming around the dimensions of wellness, completing social-emotional assessments, working with residents and families, and exploring innovative approaches to creating long-term-care environments that feel more like home.
Her passion for dementia care was further developed through an job shadow at the Chris and Susie D. Wolf Family Intervention Center for Aging and Dementia, where she participated in caregiving counseling sessions involving individuals and families affected by dementia and Alzheimer's disease. This experience deepened her understanding of the importance of individualized support, meaningful engagement, and education for both people living with dementia and those who care for them.
ZaKiyah's leadership philosophy is grounded in initiative, mentorship, education, and advocacy. She believes leadership is not defined by the size of one's title, but by the ability to recognize an opportunity for improvement and have the courage to create change. Her professional journey has reinforced her belief that every person—regardless of age, role, or experience—has something valuable to contribute.
ZaKiyah is a member of the Gerontological Society of America and has presented research exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance activities and engagement in long-term care. Her academic and leadership accomplishments include the Dr. Sue Follon Award, Legacy Scholar recognition, and recognition for her leadership as Treasurer of the Black Student Union.
Guided by her belief in the importance of remembering one's "why," ZaKiyah is committed to advancing aging services through meaningful programming, advocacy, education, and mentorship. Whether she is creating an activity that brings residents together, supporting a caregiver's professional growth, or advocating for more person-centered practices, her goal remains the same: to help create communities where older adults can continue to experience connection, purpose, independence, and joy.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with ZaKiyah
01What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is: “Remember, if you’re sitting in the room, you’re worthy of being in the room.”
At the beginning of my career, I struggled immensely with imposter syndrome. My mentor consistently reminded me that I was worthy of being in the room, even when surrounded by individuals who were older and more experienced than I was. Those words helped me recognize that my perspective, knowledge, and contributions had value—and that I had earned my place at the table.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this profession is to remember your why. Always come back to your why, because this profession can be challenging. When the work becomes difficult, reconnect with the reason you chose this field and the people who inspired you. For me, I always remember Margaret, the resident who had such a profound impact on my understanding of older adults and the importance of social and emotional connection.
Remembering your purpose can help you remain grounded and committed to making a difference, even during difficult moments. Caring for older adults is about more than completing tasks or meeting physical needs; it is about connection, dignity, purpose, and helping people feel valued.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me are connection, dignity, purpose, compassion, education, and service. I believe that every older adult deserves to feel valued and recognized as a whole person, with an individual history, personality, interests, relationships, and definition of what makes life meaningful.
In my work, I value person-centered care and the importance of understanding the social and emotional needs of the people I serve. I believe that education and community support are essential to helping older adults remain active, engaged, and independent for as long as possible.
Family is also very important to me. As a first-time auntie, I have developed an even greater appreciation for the importance of family, relationships, and the connections that give our lives meaning.
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