MsZee Speaks
MsZee Speaks
Voice. Vision. Victory.
About MsZee
Zakia “MsZee” Benyard is an author, speaker, autism advocate, coach, entrepreneur, and community leader whose life’s mission is to empower individuals and families to transform pain into purpose, obstacles into opportunities, and challenges into victories.
As the author of Crying on Mute, founder of MsZee Enterprise LLC, and mother to her son Idris, who was born prematurely and later diagnosed with autism, MsZee brings a unique blend of lived experience, professional expertise, and authentic storytelling to every stage she graces.
Her journey began not in boardrooms or on stages, but in hospital rooms, therapy appointments, IEP meetings, and countless moments advocating for her son while simultaneously rebuilding her own identity. Through those experiences, she discovered her voice and now uses it to inspire others to find theirs.
MsZee speaks with honesty, humor, vulnerability, and practical wisdom, leaving audiences empowered to take action and embrace their next chapter.
Signature Speaking Topics
Beyond the Diagnosis: Navigating the Autism Journey
Helping families understand advocacy, resources, education systems, guardianship, transition planning, and life beyond the diagnosis.
Crying on Mute: Finding Your Voice Through Pain
A powerful presentation based on her memoir that explores resilience, healing, motherhood, grief, identity, and personal transformation.
From Survival to Significance
Teaching audiences how to overcome adversity, embrace their purpose, and create a meaningful life despite challenges.
Empowered Parenting
Strategies for parents raising children with disabilities while maintaining self-care, relationships, and personal goals.
The Becoming Series
Designed for women seeking healing, confidence, self-worth, and personal empowerment while navigating life’s transitions.
Leadership Through Service
A message for nonprofit leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, and community organizations on leading with compassion and impact.
Women, Wellness & Worth
Helping women rediscover themselves beyond titles, responsibilities, and expectations.
Building Inclusive Communities
Creating understanding, acceptance, and opportunities for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.
Professional Background
MsZee combines over two decades of experience in:
Nonprofit leadership
Public speaking
Grant and financial management
Parent advocacy
Community engagement
Autism education
Family coaching
Program development
Workshop facilitation
Community outreach
Her work has connected her with:
Schools and educational institutions
Parent support organizations
Healthcare providers
Autism service agencies
Community organizations
Colleges and universities
Professional associations
Faith-based organizations
Corporate and nonprofit teams
Speaking Experience
MsZee has served as:
Keynote Speaker
Delivering inspiring and transformative messages centered on resilience, advocacy, leadership, and personal growth.
Workshop Facilitator
Leading interactive trainings for parents, caregivers, educators, professionals, and community leaders.
Panelist
Sharing expertise on autism advocacy, disability inclusion, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement.
Podcast & Media Guest
Providing insights on parenting, advocacy, entrepreneurship, self-development, and overcoming adversity.
Community Advocate
Speaking at awareness events, support groups, conferences, schools, and community forums.
What Audiences Gain
Participants leave MsZee’s presentations with:
✓ Practical strategies they can implement immediately
✓ Renewed confidence and motivation
✓ Resources and tools for continued growth
✓ A deeper understanding of advocacy and inclusion
✓ Inspiration to move beyond limitations
✓ Action plans for personal and professional success
✓ Hope, encouragement, and empowerment
Ideal Audiences
Parents & Caregivers
Navigating autism, disabilities, education systems, and life transitions.
Educators & School Staff
Supporting students and families through inclusive and effective practices.
Healthcare & Human Service Professionals
Improving family engagement and understanding lived experiences.
Women’s Organizations
Empowerment, healing, leadership, and personal growth.
Colleges & Universities
Student success, resilience, disability awareness, and leadership development.
Nonprofits & Community Organizations
Building stronger communities through service and inclusion.
Corporate Teams
Leadership, resilience, diversity, equity, inclusion, and workplace wellness.
Why Book MsZee?
MsZee doesn’t just deliver a speech, she creates an experience.
Her presentations combine:
Authentic storytelling
Professional expertise
Actionable solutions
Audience engagement
Humor and heart
Real-world strategies
Whether speaking to a room of ten parents or a conference of hundreds, MsZee’s mission remains the same:
To inspire people to reclaim their voice, embrace their purpose, and boldly step into the life they were created to live. Book a session with me
