Alana is a Twin Cities native, calling Eden Prairie and Hopkins her home. Alana attended Hopkins High School where she cultivated her energy as a leader through improv comedy. Growing up, Alana initially struggled to find her voice in school but later gained confidence once she discovered she was a visual learner. Since this discovery Alana strives to uplift students by celebrating and honoring many learning styles that exist. After high school, Alana graduated from Hamline University with a B.A. in Education and Public Health. After spending a year serving students in Omaha, Nebraska through College Possible, Alana moved back to the Twin Cities to join the Project Success family in 2016. In her free time, you can find Alana staying active or cooking up a delicious meal. One of the things Alana loves the most about Project Success is exploring new experiences with young people such as going to the theater or traveling to new cities.
Favorite musicians:
Beyonce, Lianna La Haves, Tegan & Sara, Bad Bunny
If you had to pick a theme song that would play every time you entered the room, what would it be?
Crazy in Love by Beyonce
Favorite books:
The Hunger Games Series, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo Series, The Bluest Eye
Favorite movies:
The Lion King, I am Legend, The Proposal, Selena
Favorite food:
Breakfast Foods, Italian, Green Curry, Egg Rolls
Favorite quote:
“‘They buried us, but they didn’t know we were seeds. ‘” –Dinos Christianopoulos
Favorite subjects in school:
Health, Biology
Favorite theater experience:
I saw Lion King the Musical with my mom and sister when I was in college and couldn’t believe the power theater could have at that time. The show left me full of emotion but ultimately excited to explore more!
Your ultimate vacation destination:
Nigeria. I want to explore more places linked to my culture and heritage.
The most influential person in your life/favorite teacher or mentor:
My sister Jasmine – My sister was my biggest supporter and mentor. In her life she showed me the beauty of bravery, resilience and strength.
What you wanted to be when you grew up:
Entrepreneur – Growing up I loved to draw and create crafts. My favorite craft I would create was hand sewn pillows and quilts. I would walk around with a toy cash register and track every dollar I was given and imagine I was running my own store.