A “born performer,” originally from New York, McGill was surrounded by music all her life, so she insists it was only natural she, herself, would enter the business. Studying her craft with people like Ozzie Davis and Uta Hagen, McGill went on to prove herself.

She is the founder and producing director of First World Theater Ensemble, under which she produced 24 plays. McGill is also the creative artistic director for the master griot project, and was the director in residence at the Prince Music Theatre.

Besides directing, McGill has appeared in numerous off-Broadway and national tours She has also appeared in several commercials and films. For all her work, she has received numerous awards: The 2023 Lunt-Fontanne Award, where she worked and studied under Broadway Tony Award winning director Jerry Zaks.  The Most Distinguished Director

Barrymore Insight Award. Legacy Trailblazer in Theater. Three -time winner of The DC Black Theatre & Arts Festival's Excellence in Black Theatre Award. 2 Time Barrymore Nomination for Outstanding Leading Actress in a Play, and The Black Arts for Social Change Award

Zuhairah has worked & studied with Woodie King Jr, Colman Domingo, Steve Broadnax III, Terry Nolan, Walter Dallas, Uta Hagan, Ossie Davis. She is the Founder & Producing Artistic Director of First World Theatre where they are in residence at The Arden Theatre.