Key Staff
Zainab Qaabidh, MSEd, EdS, PhD
Founder/Executive Director
​​
Dr. Zainab Abdul-Qaabidh is the driving force behind the organization. Zainab is a certified NC Victims Advocate Practitioner, Educational Consultant, and Life Coach. She recently completed her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development at North Carolina State University. Over 30 years as an educator, she served as a social service project management and transformational leader. While working as an education administrator in both Brooklyn, NY, and the Raleigh/Durham area of NC, Zainab developed a proactive program that has become the foundation for Amir Institute’s collaborative approach to empowerment through mentorship. Zainab continues to build a comprehensive network of personal and professional contacts with key community leaders. This has been instrumental in raising the profile of the Amir Institute within the boroughs of New York City and rural and urban communities of North Carolina.
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.