Meet our 2020 GiGi’s NYC Ambassador: Malik Jabbaar

We are pleased to introduce our amazing GiGi’s Playhouse NYC 2020 Ambassador, Malik Jabbaar! Malik and his family have been beloved members of the GiGi’s NYC family ever since our founding in 2012. Please enjoy the below Q&A with Malik. 

Malik and his mentor, Reed, enjoying a day at the zoo during Summer Adventures!

When did you first join the GiGi’s Playhouse NYC community?  

I joined GiGi’s Playhouse NYC in 2012 when I was eight-years-old. 

What GiGi’s NYC programs do you attend?  

I attend TeenTastic Night Out with ClaireTeenTastic with Andy, Yoga with Claire, GiGiFIT with Colin and Derekand LitLab with Angela. 

What does GiGi’s NYC mean to you?  

GiGi’s NYC is an awesome place to attend where I get to meet all my friends from all over the world. 

What have you gained from our programs?  

I have learned to be kind to others, how to express myself, and most importantly, to not be rude to others. 

What do you look forward to doing at the Playhouse once we can safely gather there again?  

When the Playhouse reopens, I would like to work with the previous Ambassadors to talk about programs and share ideas with the Board of Directors. Also, I want to see all my Playhouse friends in person 🙂 

How do you enjoy spending your free time?  

I enjoy listening to music, playing video games, and chilling with my friends. 

What does Down syndrome awareness and acceptance look like to you?  

For me it means to get to know each other and actually being there for your friends and loved ones. 

What do you want the GiGi’s NYC community to know?  

I would like to see more growth in our community and let our local community know that we are still here on West 117th Street. 

What would you like to see from GiGi’s NYC in the future?  

I would like to see LitLab return because the participants like it and it’s a popular program. Also, I would like to see more volunteers from Marymount.  

Do you have any ideas for new programs or special events?  

I would like to have another Halloween party because everyone was able to get together as a group and have fun!

Malik, you’re a huge asset to our community and we cannot wait to hang out with you at the Playhouse when we reopen! Also, good news, LitLab will be continuing and we can’t wait to learn and have fun with you there!  

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10 Comments

  1. rlofaro on November 19, 2020 at 2:18 pm

    Yay, Malik! You are an amazing individual and an exemplary Ambassador. It has been a pleasure watching you own this role-you deserve it! Looking forward to watching you grow and continue making invaluable contributions to the Playhouse.

    • Malik Jabbaar on November 24, 2020 at 6:02 pm

      Thank You! You are amazing too and I will do my best to represent the Playhouse.

      Malik

  2. hrodriguez on November 20, 2020 at 7:11 am

    Malik! You are such a fantastic young man, I am so glad you were able to visit us in Syracuse before the shutdowns! I can not wait to come to visit you at your Playhouse when we can gather again!

    • Malik Jabbaar on November 24, 2020 at 6:05 pm

      Thank You and it was nice meeting you too! I really like the Syracuse Playhouse.

      Malik

  3. hprovidenti on November 20, 2020 at 9:23 pm

    Malik, we so appreciate the energy and thoughtfulness you bring to all of our programs. We are so lucky to have you and learn from you everyday!

    • Malik Jabbaar on November 24, 2020 at 6:08 pm

      Thank You Hannah! I will do my best and will continue to represent the Playhouse.

      Malik

  4. Yamira Siu-Jabbaar on November 21, 2020 at 10:25 am

    Way to go my Prince! I am so proud of you and all you’re accomplishments. I remember when you told me that one of your goals was to become an Ambassador for GiGi’s NYC and I said your time will come just keep claiming it. And now, at 16 yrs old you are The Ambassador, kudos to you! Keep growing and shooting for the stars! I LOVE YOU!

    Thank you to the entire Board of Directors, Associate Board, Staff, Volunteers, Playhouse Family and Friends for welcoming us since day one. We Are One Big Family😊 Yamira

    • Malik Jabbaar on November 24, 2020 at 6:11 pm

      Thanks Mom! You are the best mother and thank you for all the work you’ve done and I will continue to do my best!

      Malik

  5. Theresa on December 14, 2020 at 10:11 am

    Malik, congrats on the well deserved honor! I always enjoy seeing you in the group LitLab on Saturdays and appreciate your positive energy!!

  6. Lateefah Abdul-Jabbaar on January 7, 2021 at 9:11 am

    Malik, you’ve always been my “HANDSOME GENIUS”. Added to that is AMBASSADOR!!! So very proud of your accomplishments. Keep going. Keep growing. You are The Best!!! Love, Grandma

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