the story of Z

Artisan. Motivational Speaker. Animal Lover. Athlete. Champion. Leader. Friend. Zinyra Ross can be described in a million ways. Yet if you ask by what name you should call her, she will probably reply, “Just Z”.

Z has lived two distinct lives. In the first, she was isolated by a severe cognitive disability and bullied. In her present life, she is confident, courageous, and admired. She is employed with the Chicago Zoological Society at Brookfield Zoo, United Airlines as well as competes as an athlete for Special Olympics Illinois (for which she serves as a Global Messenger and a Newly Elected Board of Directors), and acts as a mentor, advocate, and leader in her community. She is also an incredible artist and innovative entrepreneur.

By embracing her disability, Z uses the gifts and talents she has discovered to create her future with kindness, creativity, and positive thoughts. In doing so, she inspires others to follow their own dreams.

Learn more about Z’s path to where she is now.

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leadership

Z’s leadership experiences are ever-evolving! Her most prominent organizations with which she works are Special Olympics Illinois and the Chicago Zoological Society/Brookfield Zoo.

illustrations

  Z spends a lot of her “down” time creating unique illustrations. Her characters are thoughtful, whimsical, and 100% original.

Zinyra believes one person can make a difference and everyone should try. 

Simyra (Z’s mom)

I was so fortunate to work with Zinyra! She is such a strong and determined young woman, and she inspires me to this day. She has accomplished so much already and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for her.

Natalie (former supervisor)