Bria Vaughn
Staff Writer
From vlogging her busy life to baking cupcakes in her grandmother’s kitchen, organizing annual toy drives, running a family-owned boutique– all while being a full-time student- Jala Sanaa is fashioning her own path to success. As a Dillard High School alumna and three-time All-American athlete, Sanaa was crowned Miss Homecoming and Miss Lady Panther Over Everything. Now, she is sophomore at Broward College majoring in health science where she seamlessly blends creativity, ambition, and a deep connection to her family’s values as she juggles life as a student, entrepreneur, and community leader.
Sanaa’s story is one of strength and self-discovery, where she uncovers new opportunities and lessons with each new venture.
Her choice to major in health science is rooted in her desire to help people find hope, happiness, and independence. “My aunt works with kids with disabilities, and it inspired me to want to do something similar… helping people get back out there and reminding them that everyone just needs a push,” she emphatically shared. Her passion for supporting others also influences her approach to entrepreneurship and her community work. She recounts how one of her proudest moments was connecting with her baby brother and singing him lullabies.
To Sanaa, food is more than nourishment- it’s a way to bring people together and spark creativity. “Food gives you space to celebrate your wins and losses,” she explained. Sunday brunches with friends are a sacred tradition where they reflect, recharge, and plan for what’s next.
When asked what success tastes like, she laughed and said, “It’s sweet, but layered… like a Cheesecake Factory dish with whipped cream and a surprise of pecans. To me, success is doing what I want and giving back to my parents because they’ve given so much to me.”
Her entrepreneurial journey began in high school when she started braiding hair. Starting on her dolls while her mom was doing her hair, and eventually practicing on her own hair, she soon found herself styling family and coworkers. “One day, my cousin asked me to braid his hair, and I did a good job. He told me, ‘You can really do this for real.’ That moment opened my eyes to how much I could accomplish if I put in the effort,” she said. Braiding hair taught Sanaa the value of making the most of her skills and turning them into income.
Her newfound confidence in being a business owner took off after high school when she started baking cupcakes at her grandmother’s house out of boredom. “They turned out amazing,” she recalled. “We couldn’t eat them all, so I started selling them.” She recounts how she sold out in hours on her first day. “…and it taught me how much people value hard work and good food.” Inspired by her parents, both successful business owners, Sanaa realized that with hard work and dedication, the possibilities are endless.
Her business, SweetsBySanaa, quickly gained traction, showing her the rewards of turning a simple passion into something much bigger.
Generosity is the foundation of her journey, for it is also the foundation of her family’s values. Every year, her family organizes “The James Family Annual Toy Drive,” donating toys to kids in their community. They’ve also started running a Christmas 5k as a family tradition.
Her favorite personal way to give back is volunteering and teaching young girls how to cheerlead. “It feels amazing being able to inspire them and help build their confidence,” she said. “Knowing I can make a difference in these kids’ lives.”
Like many entrepreneurs, Sanaa has faced moments of self-doubt. “When I feel overwhelmed, I give myself 30 minutes to cry and get it all out,” she admitted. “Then I say a little prayer: ‘Lord, I know there are bumps in the road, but I trust they won’t have big impacts on my life.’ After that, I look in the mirror, smile, and remind myself, ‘You’re that girl.’ That always helps me keep going.”
Her resilience is a testament to her self-belief and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
Looking ahead, Sanaa has big plans for her YouTube channel (@JalaSanaa) and her family’s clothing brand, Fancy By Shay Boutique. “My dad always says, ‘You have to start somewhere.’ That keeps me motivated to build something meaningful and attract the right audience- positive people who believe in growth and success.”
Her journey is a testament to faith, creativity, and the power of believing in yourself. Whether she’s baking cupcakes, mentoring young cheerleaders, or growing her brand, Sanaa proves that success is as much about giving back as it is about achieving your dreams.
Connect with Jala
Instagram: @Jala.Sanaa
YouTube: @JalaSanaa
Boutique Instagram: @FancyByShayBoutique
Caption: Photo Courtesy of Jala Sanaa