Biography

Allana Foster-Finley, with her extensive 20-year experience in South Africa and as the President of the American Society of South Africa, stands as a versatile leader adept in various fields. At the helm of AFARA Group, she has been a catalyst in creating impactful strategies and partnerships across diverse sectors ranging from fashion and textile waste management to music, art, multimedia, and technology. Her proficiency in these domains is unparalleled, and her ability to enhance brand visibility and forge meaningful partnerships has made her a sought-after figure in B2B, public, and private sectors. Known for her dynamic presence and expertise, Allana is a popular speaker, host, panelist, and writer of grants and business proposals. Her presentations and discussions are known for their insightful and inspiring nature, resonating with a wide range of audiences. Her career is marked by significant collaborations with organizations like CNN, African Fashion International, and the Goodbye Malaria initiative. As the first employee shareholder at www.kisua.com, she has made pioneering contributions to the African Fashion Industry . Allana's educational background is as rich as her professional one, having majored in Spanish History, Culture & Linguistics, with a minor in African history at the University of Virginia, and spent a semester abroad at the University of Granada, Spain. In 2022, she managed “The Demonstration - NMAFA+ series” at Constitution Hill, an event showcasing African art. Additionally, her role as an executive board member of the Friends of the Hector Pieterson Museum Foundation highlights her commitment to preserving South African history and culture. In closing, Allana's work, including her initiative Ojutu Textiles, showcases her commitment to sustainable, African-centric solutions in textile waste management. This project not only emphasizes environmental sustainability but also involves local community engagement and cultural preservation. Allana continues to be a driving force in fostering meaningful global connections, her extensive ecosystem serving as a testament to her ability to engage and inspire a diverse audience, thus playing a crucial role in shaping the cultural and developmental future of Africa.