She Steps Up: Zeba Manki

She Steps Up is a monthly recognition series that shines a light on women in the footwear industry. The theme for this month’s spotlight is “Agents of Change: Women delivering advocacy, bold leadership, or mentorship,” and the spotlight centers on Zeba Manki, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Deckers Brands! 

Zeba Manki

Title: Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Company: Deckers Brands 

Tenure in Industry: 3-5 years 

Why she was nominated:  Zeba is a key driver of culture at Deckers. She leads major initiatives (such as the Women’s Leadership Summit), organizes panels and events for key DEI moments, and offers ongoing support for ERGs and programs like Coffee & Conversation meetings. She also sends out inclusive nudges for people leaders to keep DEI in mind and consistently creates meaningful team-building experiences at brand conferences and encourages inclusive collaboration by welcoming ideas. Her leadership and commitment make her an important part of Deckers’ strong, people-focused culture. 

“Zeba is the cornerstone in the foundation of our culture at Deckers. She gently changes our perspective and our understanding of one another and inspires us to celebrate our differences through the many connection opportunities she has brought to Deckers.” 

-Candice Williams, Senior Account Executive, UGG 

“Zeba exemplifies what it means to drive meaningful impact. Through her leadership and commitment, she has consistently championed initiatives that foster inclusivity, empower others, and create positive transformation within Deckers Brands and beyond. Her ability to turn vision into action has inspired colleagues and elevated the standard for what change leadership looks like.” 

-Ben Wahler, Director, Global Communications and Events, Deckers Brands 

“Zeba is a culture carrier for Deckers and approaches each event, presentation, meeting or interaction with genuine care and sincere curiosity. She is a natural leader across the globe and throughout our complex Deckers matrixed organization. Over the past month, Zeba facilitated two DEI panels at both the HOKA and UGG Global Brand Conferences, which resulted in a deeper understanding of our values and our resources groups. These events resulted in higher participation in our ERGs as well and were significant morale boosters for the Deckers community.”

-Tracy Paoletti, VP/GM UGG North America 

“I have the opportunity to work alongside Zeba as part of our ESG team at Deckers . She is incredibly special and I’m not sure what Deckers would do without her leading so many efforts. Zeba is always open to ideas and differing perspectives. She also offers an incredible sounding board for conflict and will help moderate and diffuse situations when called in to do so. She often is the catalyst for positive change.”

-Michelle Apodaca, Director, Deckers Gives 

“Zeba consistently creates a culture of belonging through inclusive events, conversations, and programs. In doing so, she uplifts the people around her, empowering them to be their full selves at work … Zeba and I belong to the same department at Deckers, so we have worked together almost daily since she’s joined the company. She’s been an inspirational colleague, mentor, and friend. We’ve traveled together, planned events and campaigns, and shared life. When the LA fires broke out, she didn’t hesitate to open her home to me and 3 friends who needed a place to stay! Few people have impacted my career like Zeba.” 

-Mikaela Ryan, Global Communications Manager, Deckers Brands  

“Zeba is a true champion for others, creating spaces where every voice feels heard and valued and bringing people together with purpose and care. Her inclusive nudges and creative team-building moments at brand conferences remind us that our differences make us stronger and she echoes this support in all that she does. She is the heart of our culture at Deckers, always uplifting, inspiring, and making sure we all thrive … I remember one of my first calls with her and I was so nervous to brainstorm ideas with her and she couldn't have been more positive, encouraging and supportive, but she was also very real and relatable.” 

-April Fruits, Product Merchandiser, UGG Apparel & Accessories  

Nominate a Colleague or Friend

Our next spotlight theme is: “Independent Professionals: Freelancers, consultants, and entrepreneurs navigating footwear on their own terms.” If someone comes to mind, please consider nominating them, or yourself, using the form below. The deadline to submit is December 2. 

About She Steps Up  

She Steps Up is a new monthly recognition series from Two Ten’s WIFI Community that shines a light on women in the footwear industry whose leadership, creativity, and impact are shaping our community in meaningful ways. Whether they are driving innovation, mentoring others, making bold moves, or doing the often unseen work that keeps teams strong, these are the stories worth celebrating. 

Each month, the series will feature individuals from across the industry who exemplify leadership, collaboration, and community. Nominations are welcome across all roles, experience levels, and sectors of the footwear industry, including design, HR, production, marketing, retail, administration (such as finance, accounting, and legal), and beyond. While the series centers on uplifting women, we also welcome nominations for individuals of all gender identities whose work reflects these values.