Zainab Ikaz-Kassim, a development consultant, entrepreneur, and former Special Assistant on Domestic Affairs and Event Management to President Muhammadu Buhari, shares her layered life journey—marked by victories, setbacks and defining moments that continue to shape her mission. In this interview with BRIDGET CHIEDU ONOCHIE, she opens up about her book, Gratitude, her ventures, and her passion for empowering women and children.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your journey so far
I am an entrepreneur, author, and advocate deeply driven by purpose. Over the years, I’ve built a diverse portfolio through Tahzan Ventures, a company I founded to house several brands aligned with comfort, elegance, and innovation. These include Interiors, Events, Smart Living Solutions, Home Organization, and Gifting. Each brand solves a different lifestyle problem—whether it’s transforming homes, planning exquisite events, or helping families live safer through smart solutions.

Outside of entrepreneurship, I founded Safe Haven and the Child Aid and Sponsorship Awareness Foundation (CASAF) — both of which focus on women’s empowerment, education, hygiene, and child protection. I’ve also served in government, most notably as a Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari. That role, and my decision to run for office in the House of Representatives, deeply shaped my understanding of leadership and service.

My journey has been layered—marked by triumphs, silence, setbacks, and resilience. But every chapter has pushed me to ask, “How can I be of greater impact?” That’s the question that continues to guide me.

What inspired your book, Gratitude? 
The book, Gratitude: 365 Days of Reflection, Lessons & Growth was inspired by life itself— loss, motherhood, professional transitions, moments of confusion, and divine clarity. Gratitude became a survival tool for me. No matter what was happening, I found that coming back to gratitude centered me.

Writing the book was incredibly healing. It’s a daily guide that invites readers to pause, reflect, reset, and reconnect with what truly matters. Seeing readers from around the world resonate with it has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life.

How important is creativity in your work? 
Creativity is the thread that ties everything I do. Whether I’m curating a luxury wedding, designing a space, or shaping a mentorship initiative, my goal is the same: to create emotionally meaningful and aesthetically impactful experiences. Through Events, I’ve had the honor of planning high-profile gatherings—including presidential events—and I’ve learned that excellence isn’t just about execution. It’s about how you make people feel.

One of the highlights of my event planning career was when Her Excellency, Mrs. Nkechi Okorocha, took the microphone at a very important personality (VIP) event filled with dignitaries and acknowledged my efforts publicly. For the first time, I got recognised by someone in such a public and powerful way. Having worked in an environment where the value of your work is often overlooked, that moment was incredibly affirming. It was emotional, and I’ve carried that encouragement with me ever since.

You operate in so many sectors. How do you decide where to focus your energy? 
Everything flows through the umbrella of Tahzan Ventures, which gives structure to my energy and creativity. I focus on areas where I can solve real problems and create tangible value.

Events have always come naturally. As a child, I was the one organizing games and making sure everyone felt included. That instinct matured into a professional skill and birthed Events. My sister once joked that she loved attending parties with me because I’d make everyone feel at ease—even when I didn’t know the host! That people-centered mindset is what I carry into every event.

Over time, I also became drawn to how people live. I noticed a growing demand for safer, more functional homes, so I launched Smart Living Solutions—offering smart locks, surveillance systems, solar-powered setups, and more. Through Interiors, we design homes and spaces that reflect warmth, elegance, and purpose. And through Home Organization and Gifting, we make everyday life more practical, beautiful, and thoughtful.
 
Your advocacy work focuses strongly on women and children. What drives that? 
My children inspire me daily. They’ve taught me about legacy, presence, and intentional living. I come from a close-knit family, and my mother and sisters are my deepest well of strength. I’ve seen firsthand what support, education, and safety can do for a child or a woman—and I want to replicate that on a larger scale.

Safe Haven and CASAF were born out of that desire. These aren’t side projects; they’re my life’s mission. Whether it’s offering mentorship to a young girl or providing sanitation support to an underserved school, I want to build a culture of empowerment, healing, and hope.

Who are the women who’ve shaped or inspired you the most? 
My mother, without a doubt. She is strength, beauty, and sacrifice personified. If anyone thinks I’m a great mother, they should meet my mother. Her grace and resilience continue to guide me.

I’ve also drawn inspiration from women like Her Excellency Mrs. Chioma Uzodinma Esq., who exemplifies compassion and generosity; H.E. Dr. Mairo Almakura, whose depth and sincerity have left a lasting impression on me; and Princess Jummai Idonije, a true reflection of quiet strength and unwavering support. These women have taught me that leadership can be powerful and kind at the same time.

What would you consider defining moments in your leadership journey?
Serving as Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari was transformational. It gave me firsthand insight into governance, policy, and what it means to carry the weight of public responsibility. Contesting for a seat in the House of Representatives also taught me a lot—especially about resilience, strategy, and the power of people.

But perhaps one of the most defining moments was more personal: I was once abducted and nearly killed. Laughs softly—that’s a story for another day.
But it shifted something in me. Every day since has felt like a second chance, and I don’t take that lightly.
 
What’s next for Safe Haven? 
We’re in an exciting new phase. One of our flagship initiatives is the Confident Girls Club—a mentorship and personal development program for girls aged 9 to 16. It’s designed to build self-esteem, leadership, and emotional intelligence in young girls, particularly those in underserved communities.

We’re also strengthening our partnerships so we can deepen our impact and reach across Nigeria and beyond. My vision is for Safe Haven to become a continental model for healing, leadership, and empowerment for women and girls.

Finally, what advice would you give to women trying to find their voice or step into leadership? 
You don’t have to wait to be chosen. Choose yourself. Own your story—even the messy parts. Lead with clarity, integrity, and compassion. Surround yourself with people who reflect your values and remind you of your worth on the days you forget it. And above all, stay grounded in gratitude. It’s not just a mindset—it’s a weapon.