Featured Fathers

Jazz music fills the air; his broad smile reflects joy at watching his daughter dance in the aisle. Malik and his lovely wife, Kenya, have broad goals for their two daughters, Meika, 5, and Saleek, 1 year old. “My wife and I are very big on multicultural events. We like to take them to things that will make them well rounded and not closed-minded to the world. There are tons of incredible things happening, past and present in all ethnic backgrounds.”

Hard work and creativity are two values that Malik, a business and property owner, brings to his role as a father. “I think the biggest challenge is to get accustomed to each child’s personality. Trying different methods of parenting, and trying to establish what does work!” “Make sure you have all the necessary tools for the job. It’s hard to build a house with just a screwdriver.” He and Kenya plan regular family days in the midst of their busy work schedules. “I think it’s a good thing to give your kids something to look forward to.”

Saleek’s eyes are riveted to her father, crooning to the music. A baby giggle erupts and a big smile stretches across her tiny face as he kisses her cheeks. “I love it when she learns something new! She gets really excited and it just makes us all laugh watching her try and perform her newly acquired skill.”

Although his girls are young, he is thinking about their future relationships. He’s ready with advice on love and marriage, “Time and good detective eyes are the only things that will display the truth.” No doubt, potential suitors for his daughters will have to meet high standards.

Malik looks to the larger community for his cues to fatherhood. “My role models would have to be every grandfather that I met that had a good return on his investment. Meaning his child, of course. I talk with them and decipher what will help me become a better father.”

Meika is on the stage now, with the crowd cheering and dancing along. Malik’s love of family and music is evident in his relationship with his children and wife as they all sway and keep time together.