Not all heroes wear capes.

Senior Zaniah Williams embodies this by demonstrating heroism in her daily acts, all while wearing a smile. Williams is constantly making a positive difference in the lives of those around her where it
matters most.

Zaniah has been attending Brentwood Christian School (BCS) since third grade. From the moment she arrived at BCS, she has always made a positive impression on those around her. Whether it is offering a helping hand or making people laugh, she is always doing so many good things on and off the BCS campus.

Since her childhood, Zaniah has been playing basketball. Her passion for the sport is one quality that has allowed her to succeed despite the odds.

Over the years, Zaniah has proven her skills as a player and as a leader, serving as the varsity girls basketball team captain and contributing to the team with her positive attitude.

“Zaniah is such a great leader and peacemaker on the basketball team. She does a great job calming strife and bringing peace to the team,” said athletic director and varsity girls basketball head coach, Julie Walker.

Zaniah is a three-year starter and averaged around 10 points a game last year, while also leveraging four steals a game. Williams was second team all district last year and is having a breakout season as a senior, averaging close to 15 points per game thus far.

While being a strong asset on the team, she always maintains a positive attitude that transcends past the situation at hand. Her ability to uplift those around her benefits her teammates and
everyone she encounters.

“In basketball, whenever we get down and have a bad attitude she brings goodness to every situation,” said sophomore, friend, and teammate, Ella Crouch. “At the end of the day, she’s
always praising God and thanking God for everything.

“To me, in a person that’s all that matters.”

Her athletic accomplishments away from the basketball court include her contributions to the girls track and field TAPPS 4A state championship team, and participating as a volleyball manager her senior year.

Zaniah shows leadership not only to the sports teams she is an active part of, but also other places she goes. She has been the spiritual life director for her class both her junior and senior year. Williams helps plan chapels and offers spiritual guidance to her peers.

She prioritizes living a life that honors God and serves as an inspiration to those around her.

“She has inspired me to become a leader that people want to follow,” said BCS alumna, and sister Zariah Williams. “She challenges my thinking and exposes areas I can grow in.”

Around campus, Zaniah is known for her fun personality and amazing sense of humor. She is always laughing or making a joke and others really appreciate her positive outlook on everything from sports to grades.

“She’s really funny - she always makes me laugh,” said sophomore Rihanna Lopez.

Outside of school, Zaniah owns a small hair braiding business. She started learning how to braid during the COVID-19 pandemic due to all the hair salons shutting down, but soon expanded her personal hobby into a business.

“She is so good at braiding hair,” said senior, loyal customer, and friend Bolu Bayo-Ajayi. “I have gone to her a few times and she has always done a great job.”

He isn’t alone in his appreciation for Williams’ skill; freshman Dandarah Xolani couldn’t help but agree.

“She’s a really good hair braider...I believe she will become a famous hair braider one day,” she said.

When asked what her favorites BCS memory is, Zaniah took it back to basketball.

“The basketball tournament in Lubbock...it was very challenging from an athletic standpoint, and we suffered from extremely hard losses,” she said. “Despite this, I had an amazing time with teammates and made memories that will last a lifetime.”

Zaniah attends Horizons Worship Center for church, where her dad is the pastor.

“I would say my biggest role model is my dad,” Zaniah said. “He always shows Jesus in the way he acts and teaches, and is just overall amazing.

“I am so thankful to have him to imitate.”

Zaniah’s favorite verse is Proverbs 31:30, which states: “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

“This is my favorite verse because it reminds me that my true worth is found in the way I revere and praise the Lord,” Williams said. “Not in my outward appearance or in other worldly things.”
Zaniah Williams is truly one of a kind.

Her drive to succeed, wisdom, and loving heart are all qualities that distinguish her from the average person.

From a young age; Zaniah has accomplished so much, and as she continues to grow in grace and humility, her future shines bright.

“Zaniah’s relationship with God is one of her qualities that sets her apart from others,” said senior and friend, Elisha Burks. “She has helped me grow in my spiritual life and she brings out the best
in me in that area of my life.”

***This article was published in the December 2024 edition of The Bear Facts, Brentwood Christian School's quarterly on-campus newspaper publication. ***