MARIAM: Dr. Marcus Lambert and Mrs. Zahara Basir (Lambert)

Zahara Basir wears many hats. Mrs. Basir has worked as a Social Worker specializing in the field of foster care and protective services since 2007.  In addition to her career in children and family services she has also founded two companies (3 Kings and A Queen Clothing Company and Sugar Plum by Zahara). One of her greatest accomplishments to date is not her businesses, but becoming a mother to four beautiful children. She completed her associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education and her bachelor’s degree of arts in Political Science and History from Medgar Evers College.  Mrs. Basir furthered her studies by completing her master’s degree in Social Work from New York University.  In her latest position she worked as a Clinical Forensic Specialist at the Jane Barker Brooklyn Child Advocacy Center, intervening on behalf of children who have been sexually or physically abused. 

Mrs. Basir recently began an effort of service called 3 Kings and a Queen Day, where she organizes hair care and braiding, haircuts, massages, manicures, pedicures, and more for families at homeless shelters. Above all else, Mrs. Basir values her faith, family, and seeing others happy. 

Inspired by the late Imam Warith Deen Mohammed (RA), Dr. Marcus Lambert has dedicated his life to science, mentoring, and civic engagement. Dr. Marcus Lambert is currently Director of Diversity and Student Services at Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences and Adjunct Assistant Professor of Microbiology at New York City College of Technology. At Weill Cornell, Dr. Lambert directs diversity initiatives, science outreach, housing, and immigration services for more than 400 graduate students. He serves as an advisor on education policy and diversity to a number of organizations around the United States and chairs Community Life Forward (CLF).