Zulekha Haywood was born on July 5, 1978, in the United States, to two of the most iconic figures in their respective fields—Iman, the Somali-American supermodel and fashion icon, and Spencer Haywood, the legendary NBA basketball player. Growing up as the daughter of such high-profile parents, Zulekha was surrounded by fame, glamour, and success from the very beginning. However, her story is not one of simply basking in the glory of her parents’ achievements. Instead, it is a tale of personal growth, self-discovery, and finding balance between public expectations and private fulfillment.

While Iman’s beauty and grace made her one of the most recognizable faces in the fashion industry, Spencer Haywood’s powerful athleticism and determination earned him a place in the Basketball Hall of Fame. Zulekha, their only child together, inherited their drive but sought a different path—one that valued intellect, stability, and self-acceptance over fame and recognition.

Quick Bio

Full Name	Zulekha Haywood
Date of Birth	July 5, 1978
Age	47 years (as of 2025)
Birthplace	United States
Nationality	American
Parents	Iman (mother), Spencer Haywood (father)
Siblings	Alexandria Zahra Jones, Nikiah Haywood, Isis Haywood, Shaakira Haywood
Occupation	Business Analyst, Brand Consultant
Education	Mercy High School; Michigan State University
Marital Status	Married
Known For	Daughter of Iman and Spencer Haywood

Growing Up in a Celebrity Household

Being raised by two global icons came with its share of privileges and pressures. For Zulekha, childhood meant growing up between two vastly different worlds—fashion and sports. Her mother’s side exposed her to the elegance of the fashion industry, while her father’s world revolved around discipline, athleticism, and performance.

Despite the opportunities around her, Zulekha’s early life was not as glamorous as it may appear from the outside. Her parents divorced when she was young, and she had to navigate life split between two very different households. This experience helped her develop a strong sense of independence and maturity at an early age. Iman and Spencer both remained active in her life, but Zulekha often preferred a quieter, more private existence, distancing herself from the media frenzy that surrounded her parents.

Education and Career Aspirations

Zulekha attended Mercy High School, where she excelled academically and showed an early interest in business and communication. Later, she enrolled at Michigan State University, where she pursued a degree in Human Resource Management. Unlike many celebrity children who followed their parents into entertainment, Zulekha chose a corporate career path, motivated by a desire to build her own name outside the shadow of fame.

Her education laid the groundwork for a successful professional life. After graduation, she began her career working in the business and corporate sector, focusing on brand management and strategic planning. Over the years, Zulekha has worked with several reputable organizations, including Iman Cosmetics, where she contributed to business operations and product development.

Career at Iman Cosmetics and Beyond

Working for Iman Cosmetics allowed Zulekha to merge her corporate expertise with her family legacy. While many assumed she would enter the modeling world, Zulekha instead focused on the business side of beauty and branding. Her analytical mindset and deep understanding of brand positioning made her a valuable part of her mother’s company.

Zulekha’s role at Iman Cosmetics involved managing product logistics, coordinating between departments, and ensuring that the brand maintained its high standards. This position not only honed her leadership skills but also helped her understand the challenges of sustaining a family-owned brand in a competitive industry.

In addition to her work at Iman Cosmetics, Zulekha later expanded her career, working with other companies like Jay Manuel Beauty and Taymark, Inc., where she handled various aspects of operations, marketing, and business strategy. Her professional journey showcases her ability to adapt, lead, and make a name for herself through hard work and dedication rather than fame.

Personal Life and Relationships

Unlike her parents, Zulekha has chosen to keep her personal life very private. She has never been one to seek public attention or the spotlight. Reports suggest that she is married and leads a peaceful family life, away from the glamour of Hollywood or the fashion scene.

Her choice to live privately reflects her deep desire for normalcy. Growing up in the public eye can be overwhelming, but Zulekha managed to create a life defined by authenticity rather than celebrity status. She is known for being grounded, intelligent, and deeply compassionate, traits that have earned her the respect of those who know her personally.

Struggles with Weight and Body Image

One of the most inspiring aspects of Zulekha Haywood’s journey is her openness about her struggles with weight and body image. As the daughter of a supermodel, she often faced comparisons and societal pressure to look a certain way. In interviews, Zulekha has shared that she struggled with obesity for much of her life, which affected her self-esteem and confidence.

Her honesty about these struggles resonated with many who face similar issues. Zulekha revealed that she tried various diets and fitness programs over the years but found lasting success only after making peace with herself and prioritizing health over appearance. She eventually underwent gastric bypass surgery, which helped her lose weight and improve her overall well-being.

This journey was not just about physical transformation but also emotional growth. Zulekha’s experience highlights the importance of self-acceptance, discipline, and focusing on inner happiness rather than societal standards.

Relationship with Her Parents

Zulekha shares a close and respectful relationship with both her parents, Iman and Spencer Haywood. Despite their separation, both have played active roles in her upbringing and continue to support her choices. Iman has often spoken fondly of her daughter, describing her as intelligent and wise beyond her years. Spencer, too, has expressed pride in Zulekha’s accomplishments and independence.

Their relationship reflects the deep bond that transcends fame and distance. While her half-sister, Alexandria Zahra Jones (Iman’s daughter with David Bowie), grew up in a more artistic environment, Zulekha’s path was shaped by her unique combination of intellect and practicality.

Building Her Own Identity

One of the most admirable aspects of Zulekha’s life is her determination to establish her own identity outside her parents’ fame. She never used her background as a shortcut to success but instead relied on education, discipline, and professionalism. In an era when celebrity children often chase social media fame, Zulekha’s quiet confidence stands out as a symbol of strength and individuality.

Her decision to maintain a low profile is intentional—she prefers a life focused on meaningful work rather than public attention. This approach has allowed her to thrive personally and professionally, earning her a reputation as a grounded and accomplished woman.

Life Lessons from Zulekha Haywood

Zulekha Haywood’s journey offers valuable lessons about resilience, self-acceptance, and authenticity. She demonstrates that success is not limited to public recognition or wealth but also includes inner peace and self-fulfillment. Her ability to overcome personal challenges while staying true to her values is deeply inspiring.

From her struggle with body image to her decision to pursue a business career instead of modeling, Zulekha embodies the message that happiness comes from self-awareness and courage. She continues to inspire young women to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their dreams with confidence.

Where Is Zulekha Haywood Today?

As of 2025, Zulekha Haywood leads a quiet and content life focused on her family and professional work. She continues to work in the business and branding sector, occasionally contributing to projects related to Iman Cosmetics. Her commitment to privacy remains steadfast, but her legacy of hard work and humility continues to inspire many who look up to her story.

Zulekha’s life reminds us that it’s possible to be born into fame yet still choose a grounded, meaningful path. Her inspiring journey serves as proof that true success lies in finding balance between ambition, personal growth, and inner peace.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is Zulekha Haywood?

• Zulekha Haywood is the daughter of supermodel Iman and NBA legend Spencer Haywood. She is a business analyst and brand consultant known for her work with Iman Cosmetics and other companies.

2. What does Zulekha Haywood do for a living?

• She works in business management, branding, and operations, with experience in companies like Iman Cosmetics, Jay Manuel Beauty, and Taymark, Inc.

3. Did Zulekha Haywood ever work as a model like her mother?

• No, Zulekha chose a corporate career path instead of modeling. She has always preferred working behind the scenes in business and brand strategy.

4. How did Zulekha Haywood lose weight?

• She underwent gastric bypass surgery after years of struggling with obesity. Her weight-loss journey focused on improving health and self-confidence rather than achieving beauty standards.

5. Where is Zulekha Haywood now?

• As of 2025, Zulekha lives a private and peaceful life, focusing on her family and professional career in business and brand consulting.