Women To Watch 2025 honoree Najla Wortham

Najla Wortham is a dynamic leader, licensed clinical professional counselor, and a change-maker in the nonprofit and behavioral health sectors. As the President of Rock Creek Foundation, she has spent her career transforming the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and mental health challenges. Through innovative programs, strategic systems, and compassionate advocacy, Najla empowers individuals to live with dignity, independence, and limitless potential.

With over two decades of experience, Najla has consistently delivered visionary leadership, breaking barriers and setting new standards in her field. She has pioneered dual-diagnosis programs integrating IDD and mental health services, launched affordable housing initiatives for vulnerable populations, and secured critical grants and partnerships to sustain and expand these impactful services. Her work reflects a profound understanding of the challenges faced by these underserved communities and a relentless drive to improve their quality of life.

A proud graduate of two Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)—Howard University and Bowie State University, where she earned her Master’s degree—Najla embodies the legacy of resilience, empowerment, and excellence. At her core, Najla is a proud wife and mother of two daughters, who inspire her daily to lead with purpose and compassion. She is committed to empowering her daughters to dream big, live without limits, and act courageously. 

Najla’s impact reaches far beyond her organization. She serves on multiple boards and commissions, working to implement integral changes that give voice to those who are often unheard. Recognized as a subject matter expert in mental health and IDD, Najla has shared her expertise on the national and international stage, addressing innovative programming, dual-diagnosis services, and transformative treatment options. Her passion lies in advocating for sustainable change by eliminating stigma and creating opportunities, thar empower individuals to live full, independent lives of their choosing.

Looking ahead, Najla is excited to leverage her expertise to guide the next generation of leaders. Her focus is on equipping individuals and organizations with the tools to navigate challenges, foster innovation, and design impactful programs that drive meaningful and sustainable change in the nonprofit sector and beyond.

As the first African American woman President of Rock Creek Foundation, Najla Wortham is breaking barriers, redefining leadership, and making her mark on history. Named one of Black Leaders Worldwide’s 2025 Women to Watch, she continues to shape the future of the nonprofit sector while staying true to her mission of creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.