Personal Assistant to the Director, EMI South Africa

Professional Training & Experience

Alana has a diverse professional background, encompassing a wide range of experiences across different sectors. She completed her studies in Architecture at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, obtaining both a Master of Architecture (MArch) and a Bachelor of Architectural Science (BArchSc).

After finishing her education, Alana decided to utilize her skills and knowledge by volunteering at various nonprofit organizations and underdeveloped communities, particularly in the rural Eastern Cape. Through hands-on experiences, she gained insights into the numerous challenges faced by underserved communities. This period of volunteering deeply influenced her to commit to serve those in need.

Following her volunteer work, Alana moved to Hong Kong and took on a teaching role, working with students from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Afterward, she returned to her hometown of East London and began working at an Architecture firm as a candidate architect.

Alana pursued further studies at the Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry in Redding, California and upon completing her studies, she returned to South Africa and relocated to Cape Town, where she joined the Christian Broadcasting Network. In her role as a Programme Coordinator for the children's animation series, Superbook, Alana worked closely with stakeholders from various communities around Southern Africa. Her work focused mostly on implementing initiatives that spread the Gospel and created discipleship opportunities for children. Seeking a deeper desire to serve the Kingdom, Alana accepted a supportive position at EMI, South Africa in 2023.

Ministry Experience

Alana's journey in ministry began on the mission field, growing up alongside her father's work in East London, South Africa. Her father, the director of Xhosa Gospel Mission, dedicated his efforts to church planting, AIDS hospice care, community upliftment projects and education, and providing homes for orphaned and vulnerable children. Witnessing her father's passion for serving developing communities and seeing the Gospel transform people’s lives left an indelible mark on Alana's heart.

Over the years, Alana has actively engaged in various Christian nonprofit organizations, immersing herself in their missions. She actively participated in outreaches in Hong Kong's red-light district, sharing the love of Christ with those trapped in challenging circumstances. Her commitment to ministry took her on numerous mission trips across Africa and India, where she wholeheartedly dedicated herself to spreading the message of hope and faith.

To further equip herself, Alana pursued studies at the Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry in Redding, California. There, she deepened her understanding of supernatural ministry and honed her spiritual gifts, preparing herself for the unique challenges she would encounter while serving in the ministry.

Family

Alana grew up in East London, where she experienced a slower pace of life that fostered her love for nature and a strong sense of family. Her mother’s family travelled to South Africa from Ireland where they served as missionaries during Apartheid. Her father serves as a Missions pastor, working in the townships surrounding East London. As the youngest child, Alana shares a special bond with her older sister, who is a dedicated foundation phase teacher. Interestingly, her sister found love right next door, marrying their family’s neighbour. Now they all reside in the same street, creating a tight-knit and supportive environment. Alana’s niece, Mia, holds a special place in her heart and has become her closest companion and best friend.