Zulekha Haywood is a name many people know because of her famous parents. She is the daughter of the world-famous model Iman. Her father is the basketball star Spencer Haywood. While her parents spent their lives in the bright lights of fame, Zulekha chose a very different path. She did not become a model or an athlete. Instead, she became a very successful business leader.
This article looks deep into the life of Zulekha Haywood. We will talk about her childhood, her hard work in school, and how she built a great career. We will also share the truth about her health journey and her private life today in 2026.
Quick Bio and Key Facts About Zulekha Haywood
| Feature | Details |
| Full Name | Zulekha Haywood |
| Birth Date | July 5, 1978 |
| Age | 48 years old (as of 2026) |
| Parents | Iman (Mother) and Spencer Haywood (Father) |
| Education | Michigan State University |
| Job | Business Analyst and Brand Strategist |
| Spouse | Jason Young |
| Child | Lavinia Rose Young |
| Known For | Business success and health advocacy |
The Early Life of Zulekha Haywood
Zulekha Haywood was born on July 5, 1978. She grew up in the United States. From the day she was born, people were interested in her. This is because her mother, Iman, was a superstar in the fashion world. Her father, Spencer, was a famous NBA player and a gold medal winner.
Growing up with famous parents was not always easy. Zulekha lived in a world where everyone cared about looks and sports. However, she was more interested in books and learning. She wanted to be known for her mind, not just her face.
Her parents lived very busy lives. Iman was often traveling for fashion shows. Spencer was busy with basketball games. Even with their busy schedules, they made sure Zulekha knew that school was important. They wanted her to be independent. This early lesson helped her become the strong woman she is today.
Growing Up in the Shadow of Fame
Being the child of a “beauty icon” brings a lot of pressure. Zulekha has talked openly about this. She felt that the world expected her to look like a supermodel. This was hard for her because she struggled with her weight from a very young age.
While her mother was a symbol of perfect beauty, Zulekha felt like an ordinary girl. She did not want to walk on runways. She wanted to solve problems and work in an office. This choice shows how brave she was. She did not try to copy her mother. She worked hard to find her own light.
A Focus on Education
Zulekha went to Mercy High School. After that, she went to Michigan State University. She did very well in her studies. She focused on how businesses work and how to manage people.
At college, she was just another student. Most people did not know her parents were famous. This gave her the chance to grow on her own. She learned how to think fast and plan ahead. These skills are why she is so good at her job now. She graduated with a degree that prepared her for the tough world of business.
The Professional Career of Zulekha Haywood
Zulekha Haywood has a very long and impressive resume. She has worked for over 20 years. She is an expert in looking at data and helping brands grow. She does not just work for one company; she has helped many big names.
Starting at Iman Cosmetics
Her first big job was at her mother’s company, Iman Cosmetics. Some people might think she got the job just because of her name. But Zulekha started at the bottom. She worked as an accountant. She spent her days looking at numbers and spreadsheets.
She was very good at it. She stayed there for many years and got promoted many times. Eventually, she became a manager. She helped the brand reach more people. She learned how to make products that people really wanted to buy.
Moving to Other Big Brands
After proving herself at her mother’s company, Zulekha moved on. She wanted to show that she could succeed anywhere. She worked for a company called Jay Manuel Beauty. There, she was a Senior Business Analyst. This means she looked at how the company spent money and found ways to make it better.
She also worked for other companies like:
- Taymark Inc: She worked here as a buyer.
- Portu Sunberg: She worked as an analyst to keep track of products.
- McShares, Inc: She held a high-level job helping with big projects.
Her career shows that she is a leader. She knows how to talk to big stores like Walmart and Target. She is a true professional who is respected for her hard work.
The Courageous Health Journey
One of the most inspiring parts of Zulekha’s life is her health story. For a long time, she was very heavy. At her heaviest, she weighed about 330 pounds. This caused her a lot of pain. Her knees hurt, and it was hard to walk.
In 2010, she wrote a famous story for Glamour magazine. She talked about the “Basta” diet. “Basta” is an Italian word that means “enough.” Her mother would say this word to her when she was eating too much.
Choosing Gastric Bypass Surgery
Zulekha tried every diet, but nothing worked for long. On her 28th birthday, she decided to change her life. She was worried about her health. She did not want to get sick with heart problems or diabetes.
She chose to have a surgery called gastric bypass. This surgery helps people lose a lot of weight. It was a big and scary choice, but she did it for her health. After the surgery, she lost 160 pounds. She felt like a new person. She was finally able to move without pain.
A Message of Body Positivity
Zulekha does not tell people they have to be thin. She tells people they should be healthy and happy. Her story helped many other people feel less alone. She showed that even the daughter of a supermodel can have “normal” struggles. Her honesty is a big part of her legacy.
Personal Life and Marriage
Zulekha Haywood likes to keep her life private. She does not post everything on social media. She is married to a man named Jason Young. They have been together for a long time.
Jason is very supportive of Zulekha. They enjoy a quiet life away from the cameras. They don’t go to many Hollywood parties. Instead, they focus on their family and their work. This privacy is something Zulekha values very much.
Being a Mother
In 2017, Zulekha and Jason had a daughter. Her name is Lavinia Rose Young. Zulekha loves being a mom. Her mother, Iman, also loves being a grandmother. Iman often talks about how much she enjoys spending time with little Lavinia.
Zulekha is raising her daughter to be strong and smart. She wants Lavinia to know that she can be whoever she wants to be. Just like Zulekha found her own path, she is helping her daughter do the same.
Zulekha Haywood Relationship with Her Siblings
Zulekha is part of a big, famous family. Because her parents were married to other people at different times, she has several siblings.
- Alexandria “Lexi” Zahra Jones: This is her half-sister. Lexi is the daughter of Iman and the late music star David Bowie.
- Duncan Jones: This is her step-brother. He is a famous movie director and the son of David Bowie.
- Sisters from her Father: She also has sisters named Shaakira, Nikiah, and Isis from her father Spencer’s other relationships.
Even though they are all busy, they stay connected. Zulekha is the “middle” link in a very creative and talented family.
Zulekha Haywood Net Worth and Financial Success
Many people ask about Zulekha Haywood’s net worth. Most experts believe her net worth is around $4 million.
It is important to know that she earned this money herself. She has worked for over two decades in high-level business jobs. While her parents are very wealthy, Zulekha has always wanted to pay her own bills. Her success comes from her long hours in the office and her smart business choices.
Why Zulekha Haywood is an Inspiration
Zulekha Haywood is more than just a “celebrity daughter.” She is a role model for several reasons:
- She chose her own path: She didn’t feel forced to be a model.
- She was honest about her struggles: She talked about weight and self-esteem.
- She is a hard worker: she built a 20-year career in a tough industry.
- She values privacy: She shows that you can be successful without seeking constant attention.
The Legacy of Zulekha Haywood
The legacy of Zulekha Haywood is one of balance. She balances a famous family name with a private life. She balances the beauty world with the data world. Her life teaches us that we do not have to be what people expect us to be.
She has spent her life turning “being Iman’s daughter” into “being Zulekha Haywood, the business expert.” That is a very powerful thing to do. She has proven that your brain is just as important as your last name.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zulekha Haywood doing now?
Zulekha Haywood continues to thrive as a high-level business professional. She works as a Senior Business Analyst and Brand Strategist. She focuses on helping companies manage their products and grow their brands. She also enjoys her private life as a mother and wife in the United States.
Who is Zulekha Haywood’s husband?
Zulekha Haywood is married to Jason Young. The couple has been together for many years. They are known for keeping their relationship very private. Jason is often described as a supportive partner who stays out of the media spotlight alongside Zulekha.
How did Zulekha Haywood lose weight?
Zulekha struggled with obesity for most of her life. In 2010, she chose to have gastric bypass surgery. This was a health-saving decision that helped her lose 160 pounds. She has been very open about her surgery to help others who face similar health challenges.
Is Zulekha Haywood related to David Bowie?
Yes. David Bowie was Zulekha’s stepfather. He married her mother, Iman, in 1992. Zulekha was a teenager at the time and grew up as part of the family that included the legendary musician.
Does Zulekha Haywood have any siblings?
Zulekha has several half-siblings and stepsiblings. Her most well-known siblings are:
- Alexandria “Lexi” Zahra Jones: Her half-sister from Iman and David Bowie.
- Duncan Jones: Her stepbrother, who is a famous movie director.
- Shaakira, Nikiah, and Isis Haywood: Her sisters from her father Spencer Haywood’s other relationships.
What is Zulekha Haywood’s net worth?
As of 2026, Zulekha Haywood’s net worth is estimated to be around $4 million. She earned this wealth through her 20-year career in business analysis, marketing, and strategic planning for major global brands.
Where did Zulekha Haywood go to college?
Zulekha attended Michigan State University. She studied business and human resources. Her education gave her the tools to succeed in the corporate world rather than following her mother into modeling.
Who are Zulekha Haywood’s parents?
Her mother is Iman, a world-famous supermodel and businesswoman. Her father is Spencer Haywood, a retired NBA legend and Olympic Gold Medalist. They were married from 1977 to 1987.
Disclaimer:
This article provides informational content about Zulekha Haywood based on publicly available sources. We strive for accuracy but cannot guarantee completeness or reliability. This biography is not authorized or endorsed by Zulekha Haywood or her family. Health details, including weight loss or surgery, are for reference only and not professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before any health decisions.
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Miss Emma is an entertainment journalist and culture writer specializing in celebrity biographies, net worth analysis, and digital media trends. With over 5 years of experience covering Hollywood, sports, and internet creators, Emma’s work has been featured on lifestyle and news platforms that reach millions of monthly readers.
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