She played as a forward and midfielder for the Chicago Red Stars of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL).

Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, to Thomas and Beverly Bywaters, Zakiya attended Rancho High School[3] and played club soccer for the Southern California Blues and Slammers FC.

During her second year, she was the only field player to start all 23 matches and ended the season with 10 points on three goals and four assists.

She was named first-team NSCAA All-American, All-Pacific Region and was a MAC Hermann Trophy semi-finalist.

Of her selection, Red Stars head coach Rory Dames said, "Zakiya possesses a great combination of technique and pace.

She has the ability to play multiple positions and we believe she will push hard for future national team call-ups.

[7] She scored her first goal of the season in the 85th minute against the Boston Breakers on May 19 helping the Red Stars win 4–1.