Key Staff
Zainab Qaabidh, MSEd, EdS, PhD
Founder/Executive Director
Dr. Zainab Abdul-Qaabidh is an education strategist, consultant, and the Founder and Senior Fellow at the Amir Institute. As a prominent scholar of educational leadership, school choice, and capacity building, her work bridges the gap between the P-12 private and public sectors. A certified life coach and sought-after keynote speaker, Dr. Abdul-Qaabidh combines rigorous research with practical advocacy to strengthen institutional equity and performance. She has co-authored influential research in leading academic journals, including Leadership and Policy in Schools and the Journal of Research on Leadership Education. Dr. Abdul-Qaabidh earned her PhD from North Carolina State University, holding an MSEd in General and Special Education from Touro College, and a post-graduate certification in School Building and District Leadership from the College of St. Rose.
Fatima Jordan, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Crisis Intervention Director
Fatima is a wife, mother of five, and a proud Durham, NC native with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. She is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, with expertise in Medicaid and state-funded services, private health insurance, inpatient psychiatric care, crisis response, and community agency leadership. Fatima is passionate about making quality, faith-centered care accessible to the Muslim community. She believes that Islam and mental wellness go hand in hand and is committed to helping people heal in a way that honors both.
Kyahnah Wesson
Peer Outreach &
Social Media Specialist
Kyahnah is based out of Knightdale, North Carolina. She recently completed her Yoga instructor certification in Costa Rica and is currently pursuing her peer specialist certification. She is also certified in Applied Suicide Intervention. Kyahnah is an active member of Masjid King Khalid and a key asset to the Amir Institute's social media platforms. Kyahnah is a supportive daughter, taking care of both of her parents, and an unapologetic Muslimah.
Halimah Melton
Domestic Violence Coordinator
Halimah is a dedicated mother of four, stepmother to five, and a proud grandmother of 21. She is currently pursuing her degree in social work, driven by a passion for helping others. With a strong entrepreneurial spirit, she has played a vital role in establishing and managing two successful businesses. A firm believer in education, she homeschooled her children while balancing family and business responsibilities. She also finds joy in volunteering, always seeking ways to give back to her community.