Dr. Naima Bakari was born in Ghana, West Africa then raised in Los Angeles, California. She attended Spelman College where she earned a bachelor's degree in Psychology. She attended Meharry Medical College where she received both a Master’s of Health Science and Doctor of Medicine degree.

While in medical school Dr. Bakari served as co-director of the Salt Wagon Psychiatric Clinic, a mentee in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, and participated in advocacy work for the homeless. She is currently interested in many psychiatric fields but is dedicated to serving indigent populations.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Bakari enjoys deep conversation, reading, spending time outdoors, watching anime, listening to music, traveling, and spending time with loved ones.