Hussein studied international relations and diplomacy at London Metropolitan University, where she became involved in activism and advocacy, particularly for her native Somali community.

She joined the Anti Tribalism Movement and hosted Somali language talk show called the Hooyo Talkshow in Somalia London Radio.

During her tenure in the police force, Hussein survived two assassination attempts and faced deep-rooted sexism and condescension in the male-dominated institution.

However, she persevered and in 2018, she was promoted to Brigadier General[2] and appointed as the Deputy Police Commissioner,[3][4] becoming the first female to reach both milestones in the history of Somalia's security forces.

Zakia Hussein Ahmed has become a trailblazer for women in Somalia's security forces, breaking down barriers and advocating for institutional reform and public-police relations.