Some people serve when called. Zaakirah Mohamed has made service her calling.

She is the founder of Project Rahmah, an award-winning author, an activist and a three-time Woman of the Year. She has devoted her life to serving humanity through three guiding values: mercy, dignity and compassion.

The Heart Behind Project Rahmah

Rahmah means mercy, and it is the spirit behind everything Zaakirah has built.

As founder of Project Rahmah, she created a movement that answers human need with action. Under her leadership, the project reaches some of the most vulnerable people in society through:

• Outreach, taking care and support directly into communities
• Elderly care, honouring and protecting the older generation
• Women’s and children’s programmes, empowering mothers, nurturing young people and protecting childhood
• Humanitarian aid, standing with people in their moments of greatest need

Her vision has grown into a team effort. Project Rahmah’s work for children’s equality, safe spaces and the restoration of dignity is now carried forward on the ground alongside fellow honouree and Rahmah Foundation director Ameer Stofberg.

A Voice Through the Written Word

Zaakirah is also an award-winning author. Through her writing, her compassion reaches readers far beyond the communities she serves in person, inspiring others to see humanity more clearly and to act with greater kindness.

An Activist for the Overlooked

As an activist, Zaakirah speaks for people whose voices too often go unheard: the elderly, women, children and families in crisis. She doesn’t just care about injustice. She works to change it.

Three Times Woman of the Year

Being named Woman of the Year three times reflects years of consistent, dedicated service. It shows that Zaakirah’s impact is not occasional but enduring, recognised again and again by those who have seen what her work achieves.

Mercy in Action

In a world that can feel harsh and divided, Zaakirah Mohamed is a reminder of what mercy looks like in practice. It looks like a meal delivered, an elder cared for, a child protected and a family lifted in a time of crisis.

Her life’s work proves that compassion is more than a feeling. It is a choice made every day, and Zaakirah keeps making it.

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Zaakirah Mohamed will be honoured at the Influential Awards 2026 – Cape Town Edition, Sunday 29 November 2026, Joseph Stone Auditorium, Athlone.