Zainab Ikaz-Kassim, a development advisor, entrepreneur and former special assistant for domestic matters and event management by President Muhammadu Buhari, shares her much-relocated life trip-called by victories, setbacks and definition of moments that continue to shape their mission. In this interview with Bridget Chiedu Onochie, she opens up her book, gratitude, her activities and her passion for strengthening women and children.
Tell us something about yourself and your previous trip
I am an entrepreneur, author and lawyer who are driven deep from the purpose. Over the years I have built a diverse portfolio through Tahzan Ventures, a company that I founded to align several brands with comfort, elegance and innovation. This includes interiors, events, smart live solutions, domestic organization and gifts. Each brand solves another lifestyle problem – whether it is the transformation of houses, plans exquisite events or helps families to live more safely through intelligent solutions.
Outside of the entrepreneurship, I founded Safe Haven and The Child Aid and Sponsoring Awareness Foundation (Casaf) – both focus on promoting women, education, hygiene and child protection. I also served in the government, especially as a special assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari. This role and my decision to run for the office in the House of Representatives have deeply shaped my understanding of leadership and service.
My journey was layered – characterized by triumph, silence, setbacks and resilience. But every chapter urged me to ask: “How can I have bigger effects?” That is the question that continues to lead me.
What did your book inspire, gratitude?
The book, gratitude: 365 days of reflection, lessons and growth were inspired by life itself – loss, motherhood, professional transitions, moments of confusion and divine clarity. For me, gratitude became a survival tool. No matter what happened, I found that gratitude withdrew me.
Writing the book was incredibly healing. It is a daily guide that invites readers to pause, reflect, reset and connect with what is really important. Seeing readers from all over the world is one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life.
How important is creativity in your work?
Creativity is the thread that connects everything I do. Regardless of whether I curate a luxurious wedding, design a room or design a mentoring initiative, my goal is the same: to create emotionally sensible and aesthetically effective experiences. Through events, I had the honor, top-class assemblies to plan-intake in one thing-and had learned that Excellence is not just about executions. It's about how they feel humans.
One of the highlights of my career as an event planning was when her excellence, Ms. Nkechi Okorocha, visited the microphone with a very important personality (VIP) with dignitaries and publicly recognized my efforts. For the first time I was recognized by someone in such a public and powerful way. After this moment had worked in an environment in which the value of her work was often overlooked, this moment was incredibly confirmed. It was emotional and I have carried this encouragement with me since then.
You work in so many sectors. How do you decide where to focus your energy?
Everything flows through the roof of Tahzan Ventures, which gives my energy and creativity structure. I concentrate on areas in which I can solve real problems and create tangible value.
Events have always come naturally. As a child, I was the one who organized games and made sure that everyone felt included. This instinct matured into a professional ability and born events. My sister once joked that she loved attending parties with me because I would all make it feel comfortable – even if I didn't know the host! This person centered is what I carry in every event.
Over time, I also pulled out how people live. I noticed a growing demand for safer, more functional houses, so I started smart live solutions-stated intelligent locks, surveillance systems, solar-powered setups and much more. Through interiors, we design houses and rooms that reflect warmth, elegance and purpose. And through domestic organization and gifts, we make everyday life more practical, more beautiful and thoughtful.
Your legal work focuses on women and children. What drives?
My children inspire me every day. They taught me about inheritance, presence and deliberate life. I come from a narrow family and my mother and my sisters are my deepest fountain of strength. I saw first -hand what support, education and security can do for a child or a woman – and I would like to replicate it on a larger scale.
Safe Haven and Casaf were born from this request. These are not side projects; You are the mission of my life. Regardless of whether it offers a young girl mentoring or offers an under -sized school sanitary support, I would like to build a culture of empowerment, healing and hope.
Who are the women who have shaped or inspired the most?
My mother, without a doubt. It is strength, beauty and victims who are personified. If someone thinks I'm a great mother, you should meet my mother. Your grace and resilience continue to lead me.
I also inspired women like their excellence, Ms. Chioma Uzodinma Esq. He Dr. Mairo Almakura, whose depth and sincerity have left a lasting impression on me; and Princess Jummai Idonije, a real reflection of silent strength and unshakable support. These women taught me that leadership can be powerful and friendly at the same time.
What would you consider to define moments on your management trip?
Being President Muhammadu Buhari as a special assistant was transforming. It gave me first -hand insight into governance, politics and what it means to bear the weight of public responsibility. The competition for a seat in the House of Representatives also taught me a lot – especially about resistance, strategy and the power of people.
But maybe one of the most crucial moments was more personal: I was kidnapped once and almost killed. Laughs quietly – that's a story for another day.
But it moved something in me. Every day has felt like a second chance since then, and I don't take it easy.
What's next for Safe Haven?
We are in an exciting new phase. One of our flagship initiatives is the confident Girls Club-A program for mentoring and personal development for girls between the ages of 9 and 16. It should build up for young girls, especially in sub -supplied communities, self -esteem, leadership and emotional intelligence.
We also strengthen our partnerships so that we can deepen our effects and achieve in Nigeria and beyond. My vision is that Safe Haven becomes a continental model for healing, leading and strengthening women and girls.
What advice would you give women who try to find their voice or step into the lead?
You don't have to wait to be selected. 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 value on the days when you forgot. And above all, remain grateful. It's not just a way of thinking – it is a weapon.