About

Ilyasah Shabazz is a distinguished author, educator, and community leader dedicated to preserving her parents' legacy while advancing social justice and empowerment for marginalized communities. She is widely recognized for her professionalism, inspirational leadership, and impactful advocacy, particularly within the African American and social consciousness spheres. Through her work with the Shabazz Center and as a speaker, she fosters dignity, self-knowledge, and purposeful action across generations.

Recommendations

Experience

Lora King

6/9/2026
10

"She is absolutely amazing! Very inspirational and very encouraging! She definitely shows the world her powerful parents footsteps of bravery in every way!"

tiLT FEST

2/5/2026
10

"Ilyasah honored tiLTFEST with her presence as a moderator, when she hosted a fireside chat for one of our tiLT Tea Party Author Talks. She is a brilliant talent, community treasure and cultural gem. "

Safura Khan

2/5/2026
10

"She is an inspiring leader."

craig hatkoff

1/27/2026
10

"
Ilyasah is an a amazing role model. A scholar, a community organizer, Ilyasah is a keeper of the flame: the legacy reminds and inspires us with her unabashed courage and conviction of speaking truth to power."

David Jackson

1/27/2026
10

"Ilyasah Shabazz is an amazing author and public speaker, that can not only captivate and audience with her passion and insight on whatever the topic of the discussion may be, she also has a way of making everyone feel welcome, while leaving inspired and ready to become a better version of themselves."

Carmelita Fossella

1/27/2026
10

"Iiyasah Shabazz - is an exceptional human being always willing to help someone out. Whether it’s resources or an encouraging. She always move with such elegance in Grace. And deserves every great thing that is coming her way. I would not have my career path if it was not for her. "

Ronald Kunene

1/27/2026
10

"Ms Ilyassah Shabazz is a vibrant visionary,
dynamic educator, and a Pan-African scholar.
Her writings are both incisive and insightful."

10

"Ilyasah is a dedicated and reliable professional who consistently shows strong integrity, thoughtfulness, and follow-through in her work. She communicates clearly, collaborates well with others, and brings a high level of professionalism to everything she does."

Augie Cervera

1/27/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Juliet Haynes

9/3/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Ahmad Almutawa

8/24/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Nicole Dennis-Benn

7/11/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Rosemary Grady

6/19/2026
10

"Dr. Shabazz is the quintessential professional and a dynamic individual! She is an amazing person!"

Cornelius Williams

6/13/2026
10

"Ms.Ilyasah Shabazz is a motivational and inspirational figure in both the African American community and Social Conscious community at a time for the need of different voices in a society that is burdened by one party rule that doesn't advocate for equality in every faction of living. Her activism, commentaries and writings are a living testament to the enduring legacy and example that her father left with her. They should be added to more educational institutions and studied in law schools to help improve our justice and health care systems. I myself have enjoyed the wonderful lessons she has shared with me in our conversations over the years. I will carry them with me in my career as a journalist and writer. ~ Cornelius Williams~"

10

"Ilyasah is dedicated to upholding the legacy and mission established by her parents through her leadership of the Shabazz Center. She has also carved her own unique path as activist and educator, who is committed to the uplift of marginalized communities."

Tiara Williamson

5/30/2026
10

"When I first walked into Professor Ilyasah Shabazz’s classroom at John Jay, I was incredibly excited just to be learning from Malcolm X’s daughter, but experiencing her as an educator proved to be an absolute honor in its own right. She brings an unmatched elegance and a commanding presence to the classroom, delivering every lecture with immense passion, clarity, and real-world insight. She doesn't just teach history or theory; she empowers her students to think critically and lead with purpose. Her brilliant approach to education and leadership truly leaves a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to learn from her."

Paula Gavin

5/25/2026
8

"Outstanding person and leader."

Adam Powell

5/25/2026
10

"Very professional. Goal oriented. Great team player but also has tremendous initiative and can find solutions to difficult issues."

Eric Majette

5/15/2026
10

"Dr. Shabazz is absolutely amazing. Her work and her dedication to upholding the memory and legacy of her Mother and Father. She is a consummate professional, awe inspiring and an absolute treasure. I recommend her without reservation."

Angel Knight

3/2/2026
10

"A moving and compassionate speaker! Dr. Shabazz is definitely one of our leaders to give awareness and self power for the African American community "

10

"Dr. Shabazz has thi rare combination of grace, depth, and moral clarity. She carries history not as a weight, but as a living light—offering people across generations a pathway to dignity, self-knowledge, and purposeful action. Her presence is both grounding and elevating: she listens deeply, speaks with intention, and leaves individuals and communities feeling seen, valued, and capable of more than they imagined.

What makes Dr. Shabazz extraordinary is not only her scholarship or global influence, but her humanity. She has an uncommon ability to translate legacy into healing, memory into meaning, and identity into possibility. Whether engaging young people searching for belonging or leaders navigating responsibility, she meets each audience with compassion, respect, and an unwavering belief in their potential.

Dr. Shabazz does more than educate—she restores connection: to history, to self, and to one another. Her work expands hearts as much as minds, reminding us that justice and understanding are lived practices rooted in empathy and courage.

I offer my highest and most heartfelt recommendation for Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz."

Elliott Miller

2/26/2026
10

"Dr. Shabazz is an astute community leader, professional and educator that has built the Shabazz Center into a prestigious New York City landmark, and helped thousands of minority students reach way beyond their initial social status. "

Roy Paul

2/26/2026
10

"Ilyasah carries forward her father’s legacy with remarkable grace, intelligence, and authenticity. As an author, educator, and global thought leader, she speaks with profound insight on leadership, social justice, personal empowerment, and the importance of understanding history to shape a better future. What stands out most is her ability to connect historical truth with present-day challenges in a way that feels relevant, motivating, and actionable."

Jennifer Freda

2/26/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Russell Clayton Jr

2/18/2026
10

"Awesome "

Michelle Bernard

2/16/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Bettih Shabazz

2/15/2026
10

"I would like to begin my publishing career by working on my first children's book about a young biracial girl who bring the joey back home to parents."

Mustafa Bozkurt

2/15/2026
10

"Kardeşim İlyasah Shabaz A bütün doğu kefil ve referans olmaya hazırdır..."

John Houston

2/15/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Michael Wells

2/14/2026
10

"Very positive person who cares deeply about the youth.
"

SongbirdCee

2/14/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz
10

"Thank you so much! My website (https://iamkateygretchen.com) is now live, including my social media channels."

Alex E. Kindig

2/12/2026
10

"Dr. Shabazz is a great presence and representative of her work, scholarship, and community. She connects so well with her audience and supporters to make them feel special and important to her work."

Christina Reid

2/10/2026
10

"Ilysah Shabazz is an amazing author and social rights advocate. Sheserves as a pillar of the community with the work she does. Previous engagements include her being a guest speaker at Columbia University, where I had the privilege of interviewing her in a room full of student learns. "

Shannon LaNier

2/10/2026
10

"Love Ilyasah's work and efforts to educate and unit our communities. "

Aaliyah Bilal

2/6/2026
10

"Ilyasah Shabazz is a legacy keeper, a role model and a gentlewoman beloved by many."

Trisha Somers

2/6/2026
10

"Ilyasah gave an inspiring talk to a once thriving community to bring them hope, share her story and her father's legacy. She came back the following day to spend time with the children of the community encouraging them to be all that they desire to be. She is truly an inspiring speaker and caring person. I highly recommend to others to invite Ilyasah to share her truth and love with your community through her influential speaking and presence."

Jolo's

2/6/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Halsaa Benzha

2/5/2026
10

"In an era that demands principled leadership, moral courage, and a dedication to healing divisions, Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz exemplifies these qualities. She is not only a custodian of history but a builder of a better future. Her integrity, intellect, and tireless advocacy make her an invaluable force for positive change.

"

Valery Lanotte

2/5/2026
10

"We are alumni of the same college, SUNY New Paltz. She was very kind and encouraging and gave me a leg up as a photography student."

Imani Dillard

2/5/2026
Provided a score of  
2
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Jason Martin

2/5/2026
10

"Ilyasah is highly intelligent and compassionate. She is very generous with her time and reputation, often lending her name to very noble causes."

sonceray bell

2/5/2026
10

"Very professional & knowledgeable. Positive attitude. Happy to help. Wishing you the best& God Bless.🤗"

Maimunah Marah

2/5/2026
10

"Very warm and approachable. We are looking forward to her next children's book."

Louise Dente

2/5/2026
10

"My pleasure to be of assistance."

2

"Ilyasah Shabazz is a deeply committed and purpose-driven person. What stands out most to me is her unwavering dedication to preserving and honoring the legacy of her father, Malcolm X, who is a personal idol and source of inspiration for me.
Through her books, conferences, panels, and public engagements, she continues to educate, inspire, and raise awareness about justice, identity, and empowerment. Her work reflects integrity, courage, and a genuine commitment to positive change. It is truly a pleasure to recognize her impact and leadership."

Starr Simpson

2/5/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Tamara Payne

2/5/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Kwabena Rasuli

2/4/2026
10

"Ms. Shabazz came to our community for an event we held unveiling a street renamed in honor of her father Malcolm X. She was gracious and wonderful. Her presentation was on-point and she was received very well by our community in Gary, Indiana!"

Qwenda Perez

2/4/2026
10

"Great author and public speaker. People listen with intent and eager to hear what she has to share. Always a pleasure to listen when she is interviewed. "

10

"❤️❤️❤️"

New Earth

2/4/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Gina Duncanson

2/2/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz
10

"Ilyasah is an exceptional public speaker. I wholeheartedly endorse her!"

Herb Boyd

1/29/2026
Provided a score of  
9
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Fritz Jean

1/29/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Sana Khan

1/28/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Kameron Daniel

1/28/2026
10

"Doctor Ilyasah Shabazz is great unifier, professor , and motivator. She is capable of moving mountains with her mysterious glance and a word. The people of this great nation are lucky to have her fortitude and patience on their side."

Jordan Mendez

1/28/2026
10

"Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz is a dynamic figure in my life. She's opened doors for me, inspired me, and mentored me. She's also made an effort to ensure I'm involved, represented, and appreciated. She's a great leader, an extraordinary visionary, and an even better person. Her qualities make her an asset to any team she is on. She is irreplaceable. "

raymond lewis

1/28/2026
10

"A tremendous global leader, speaker, civil and social justice advocate for positive change and legacy role model! "

10

"Ilyasah was working with me as a talent for Al Jazeera in 2020. She was very friendly and professional, gaining credibility in our team quickly. I would commend her to you. "

Craig Dent

1/28/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Bart Schmidt

1/28/2026
10

"A truly compassionate and empathetic leader!"

Robert Kirk

1/28/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Ayanna Gregory

1/28/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Djazia Idir

1/28/2026
10

"Hi miss Shabazz, I am more then happy to endorse you.
We have never met but I'm hoping our paths cross some day incha'allah!

Djazia Idir"

David Romero

1/27/2026
10

"Ilyasah Shabazz and her team lent their support to nationally-recognized spoken word artst Alyesha Wise for her latest book My Older Brother, A Famous Rapper (El Martillo Press, 2025). In all of my conversations with Ilyasah and her team, they were kind and enthusiastic about helping this poet promote her politically-charged poetry. When we received the review quote from Ilyasah for Alyesha's book, we were blown away. Not every public figure supports other public figures. That she did so, and did it so eagerly, is a testament to her character and demonstrates her belief that not one person can do everything, but everyone can do a little bring to create a better world."

Z Ramadan

1/27/2026
10

"Prof. Ilyasah Shabazz is a charismatic leader and speaker who has always represented herself and her family legacy with distinction. "

Brian Heath

1/27/2026
10

"Ur the best hands down "

Ruth Jean-Marie

1/27/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Kelly Indy Smith

1/27/2026
10

"Impacting leader. "

Ric Curtis

1/27/2026
10

"Ilyasah is a valued colleague and always someone who I would choose to be on my team if given the chance. She is thoughtful, caring, innovative, dedicated and committed. I can't say enough about what she brings to the table each and every time. "

Rito Joseph

1/27/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Patrick Parr

1/27/2026
10

"No matter the situation, Ilyasah radiates positivity and grace. She's an incredible public speaker and is able to take command of an audience, small or large. Her skills are based in compassion and understanding, and her professionalism comes from years of handling the pressure of being in the public eye. If she's given a difficult question, she's able to handle it with both wit and consideration. She's a marvel. "

Al Brown

1/27/2026
10

"Kind, thoughtful and considerate, a keeper and guardian of her family values and legacy. "

Alison Ernst

1/27/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Wassim Malak

1/27/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Noel Fearon

1/27/2026
10

"Ilyashah is responsible, thoughtful and reliable."

Lisa Copeland

1/27/2026
10

"Ilyasah Shabazz is a born leader and a fighter for justice. She has been this way for the almost 30 years that I have known her. She has shared her knowledge of history through her speeches and the classes of young people she has taught. She's a gift to any environment she joins."

Midji Verdol

1/27/2026
10

"Meeting Ilyasah and collaborating with her teams to promote her father's story in schools has been a rich experience for me. She is an inspiring woman who knows how to grow her legacy."

Ali Abdullah

1/27/2026
10

"Dr. Shabazz is a dynamic and conscientious leader that leads with compassion and purpose. She seeks evidence base outcomes and implements best practices, be they quantitative or qualitative, in all of her pursuits. She captivates any audience she encounters and has the respect of peers, locally and nationally. It is truly an honor and a pleasure to say a few words on behalf of Dr. Shabazz."

Rose Salem-Tilford

1/27/2026
10

"Ilyasah is smart, driven, and highly capable of turning ideas into real execution. She brings clarity, follow-through, and integrity to everything she does"

Tyson Beardy

1/27/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Rouven Frank

1/27/2026
10

"Ilyasah Shabazz is an extraordinary woman whose life embodies resilience, grace, and profound dedication to justice and education. As the daughter of the legendary Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz, she has carried forward their legacy with unwavering strength, authoring insightful books like X: A Novel and Growing Up X that humanize her family’s story while inspiring generations. Her work as an author, educator, and advocate for civil rights makes her a true beacon of empowerment and hope—truly, an endorsement of her enduring impact on the world!"

keeping it real

1/27/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Vincent Intondi

1/27/2026
10

"I worked with Ilyasah Shabazz in 2016. We had an event at the college I was teaching at in which I interviewed her on stage, followed by a book signing for her new book at the time. This was one of the best events I have ever been involved with. Ilyasah was professional and so easy to work with. More importantly, she spent so much time with students that to this day, in 2026, I still receive emails from former students reminding me of how much it meant to them to meet Ilyasah and the inspiration of her words. Like her parents, she is a treasure and I hope others have the same opportunity I had to work with her. It was truly an experience I will never forget. "

mikkel Tzamtzis

1/27/2026
10

"A beautifully written, deeply grounded work that expands the Malcolm X legacy with grace, intelligence, and spiritual depth."

Emma Walthall

1/27/2026
10

"She is a phenomenal woman who has endured much. However, she keeps persevering and pursuing her goals. She is a leader and admired by many. It’s an honor to endorse her."

cvernon mason

1/27/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Cameo Paschal-Fair

1/27/2026
10

"Dr. Shabazz is academically well versed and talented! Her writing is compelling, focused, and poinent, yet relatable. Watching her work and purpose fuel her has been a joy.

Dr. Shabazz is a kind human being above all else, her care for others and her ability to make you feel seen is unmatched. Our interactions are ones that I have and will continue to hold dear; if you are blessed to know her then you understand.

"

Michael Granger

1/26/2026
10

"Possesses a sharp mind and a commitment to excellence, which are two very important ingredients to performance and success."

Lisa Copeland

1/26/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Maurice Robinson

1/26/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Malcolm du Plessis

1/26/2026
10

"Ilyasah is a continuous stream of insight, inspiration and instruction - helping anchor anchor our work with Common Hymnal and lifting us, again and again, toward clarity and courage. "

Neville Welch

1/26/2026
Provided a score of  
10
  for Ilyasah Shabazz

Raymond Tribble

1/26/2026
10

"Beautiful, intelligent women."

Halima Taha

1/26/2026
10

"Endorsement for Ilyasah Shabazz:

lyasah Shabazz is an intelligent, articulate, and engaging speaker whose presentations captivate and inspire. As a consummate professional, she embodies purpose, focus, integrity, and accountability in word and deed—delivering transformative impact every time. "