Zollyann Howell is no stranger to resilience. A Brooklyn-raised visionary, she has transformed personal hardship into a mission of empowerment, using storytelling and education as her vehicles. A six-time Amazon bestselling author, educator, and entrepreneur, Zollyann is redefining success; not just for herself, but for the generations she is determined to uplift.
Her journey is one of grit, faith, and the unwavering belief that even the darkest moments can be stepping stones to something greater.
From Adversity to Purpose
Motherhood came early for Zollyann, bringing with it the weight of responsibility. As a single mother raising three children, she knew she had to build a life not just for herself but for them- a life of stability, passion, and legacy. The road wasn’t easy. She faced struggles that could have broken her, yet instead of giving up, she turned to writing.
Writing became her lifeline, her therapy, and ultimately, her purpose. Through journaling her pain and uncertainty, she discovered that her words had power not just to heal herself but to inspire others.
Her literary success has reached beyond U.S. borders, with her books landing on shelves in South Africa, the UK, Australia, and Italy. But for Zollyann, it has never been about the accolades. It has always been about impact.
“I want my children and people everywhere to know they can achieve anything they put their minds to,” she says. “There are no limits when you are dedicated, consistent, and authentic to your craft.”
While Zollyann’s work as an author and entrepreneur has empowered many, her most ambitious and deeply personal endeavor is ZAM Learning Academy, a hybrid micro-school based in Newark, NJ.
ZAM Learning Academy is more than just a school—it’s a movement. Designed as an alternative to traditional education, the academy nurtures curiosity, individuality, and academic excellence in a way that truly supports students’ needs. Zollyann recognized the gaps in the current educational system, particularly for Black and Brown students, and she refused to stand by while so many children were left behind. At ZAM Learning Academy, students are given the tools to thrive, not just academically but holistically. Zollyann is creating an environment where every child is seen, heard, and valued.
“As an educator, I saw firsthand how traditional schooling doesn’t always meet the needs of every student,” she explains. “I wanted to create a space where learning feels personal, empowering, and reflective of our children’s true potential.”
In addition to her work with ZAM Learning Academy, Zollyann is the force behind The Mindset Mixer, an annual event designed for creatives, entrepreneurs, and aspiring CEOs. Collaboration is at the heart of The Mindset Mixer. The event is a space for networking, empowerment, and business strategy, equipping attendees with the tools they need to turn their dreams into reality. Zollyann has made it her mission to ensure that those with big dreams have access to the resources and connections they need to succeed.
Despite personal and professional challenges, she keeps moving forward, balancing motherhood, business, and purpose. She shares her journey candidly, knowing that someone out there needs to hear that they, too, can rise. With a growing brand, a thriving educational institution, and a community-driven mindset, Zollyann shows no signs of slowing down. She is building a future where education and empowerment intersect; a future where more children, especially Black and Brown students, have access to a learning environment that honors their brilliance.
“I’ve been through a lot, but I wouldn’t change my journey,” she reflects. “Because everything I’ve gone through has led me to purpose, to impact, to a life that inspires others.”
Zollyann Howell is proof that pain doesn’t define us—our resilience does. And through her words, business, and advocacy, she is making sure others find their resilience, too.
Want to learn more about ZAM Learning Academy or Zollyann’s work? Follow her on Instagram @zoll_inreallife .
Photo Credit: Jlavii Photography
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