I HOPE YOU KNOW I SURVIVED!

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Khadija was born and raised in North Philadelphia and she takes pride in where she comes from. She started playing basketball around 7 years old to escape the dysfunctional household she grew up in. She eventually honed her skills playing amongst the guys in Kenderton school yard and different leagues throughout the city. Khadija eventually fell in love with the game and allowed it to consume her which kept her out of trouble and gave her something to look forward to. By the time she reached high school she had received numerous awards, trophies, and medals for basketball and track. Khadija decided to play High School basketball at University City which was a powerhouse at the time.  She was excited to play for coach Jones and was able to win a Public League Championship her junior season! Khadija eventually earned herself a full athletic scholarship to attend Temple University and play for her idol and fellow North Philadelphian, Dawn Staley!

While at Temple, Khadija had to sit out her freshmen season and struggled finding balance between academics and sports. She was academically dismissed her sophomore season and didn't return until 2 years later. During that time Khadija lost her grandmother to stomach cancer, her first cousin was murdered, and she had been arrested several times. With the support of her team, family, and some friends she returned to North Broad Street to finish what she started. Although her college journey was unconventional, Khadija was an asset to her team both before and after her return. Grateful that Coach Staley held her scholarship during those trying times, it allowed Khadija to earn a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. It was at this time that Khadija realized it's "BIGGER than Basketball'.

Upon graduating Khadija began working with the youth, from coaching basketball to working in residential and school settings.  While in high school and college Khadija participated in several community outreach programs and grew to love helping the youth and her community. In April 2010 Khadija's brother, Jamal was murdered and rocked her world forcing her to re-locate to Florida for 2 years. When she returned to Philly she vowed to do her part in serving the community and continuing to mentor the youth. Since then, Khadija has hosted and been a part of several charity events in and around the city with emphasis on cancer and gun violence awareness. She is currently serving as Dean of Students at an Elementary School.

Khadija is a survivor and is looking forward to getting back to her roots of serving an impacting the community. During her battle with cancer Khadija realized how much of an impact she has had on her peers, community, and youth. The love and support that she received during that time definitely helped her push forward and gave her the strength she needed. She is especially excited about her upcoming initiatives, especially those involving the support of individuals and families affected by cancer.