Leana comes to Finegold Alexander Architects with over 13 years of experience in the construction industry, specializing in accounting and human resources. She’s excited to bring her experience and knowledge to the business side of an architecture firm, and we are lucky to have her at Finegold Alexander! Leana’s greatest passion is to live a healthy and active lifestyle. She sat down with us to reflect on her experiences throughout her career and opportunities she has created through taking on new challenges.

Q: What did you want to be when you were younger?

A chef. I loved food (who doesn’t?!) but I was also always experimenting in the kitchen trying to create healthier versions of everything I loved eating. To this day, I love being in the kitchen and creating recipes. It’s where I can let my creativity run wild.

Q: If you could give advice to a young professional beginning their career what would you say?

Don’t do anything because you’re afraid of doing something else. Take the leap, do the scary things, and stay open to unexpected opportunities. All these things contribute to growth and will help you find true fulfillment in life.

Q: What have been some of your proudest achievements so far outside of work?

One of my proudest achievements was starting my own health coaching and cooking business to help people with food sensitivities and restrictions. Many people struggle with their health and unfortunately, it becomes necessary to stay away from certain foods to begin to heal. I’d help them focus on everything they COULD eat instead of what they couldn’t. By teaching, cooking together, and creating recipes for their individual needs, food can become fun again for them!

Q: Do you have a favorite city to visit for architecture?

I love to travel and have been fortunate enough to see so many places, but I’d have to say my favorite place to visit are the old villages in the mountains of northern Portugal. There’s just something truly remarkable about seeing structures that were built by the hands of my grandparents.

Click here to learn more about Leana!