Name: Elayna
Nickname: E
Hometown: Miami, FL
Current Home: Los Angeles
Languages: American Sign Language, Haitian Kreyol & Conversational Spanish
Tenure: 4^th Season
GR Leadership Position: Captain - This season, I'm honored to serve as a trusted voice for my teammates. I help cultivate a culture of excellence, resilience, and teamwork by leading with integrity through our preparation, performance, and the challenges we face together. While also representing the values of our organization and making a positive impact both on and off the field.
College: University of South Florida
Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral and Community Sciences
Grad School: Pepperdine University
Degree: Master of Science in Business Management and Leadership
Occupation: Investment Operations Associate

What is your favorite thing about your job?
My favorite thing about my job is my Axon team. They are a group of very intelligent and diverse people that make problem solving fun and are both inspiring and motivating.

What was your first job?
My first job was in high school as a camp and after-school counselor for a Program called FOCAL – Foundation of Community Assistance and Leadership. This job not only launched me into the workforce, but when I was younger, I also attended this program, and it was responsible for exposing me to so many amazing experiences that has shaped me into the Woman I am today. I was eager to give back and pour back into my community in the same way that the program poured into me.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was a kid I wanted to be a Lawyer and a Therapist. I love helping people and that passion has stayed with me even through adulthood.

What activities bring you the most joy?
I have the most joy when I'm dancing but other activities that are equally joyful are outdoor activities like horse-back riding, hiking, live music and all water sports.

What is your personal motto?
Be real. Be kind. Be you. - I once created a brand and blog called Being "Elayna" to encourage people to embrace who they are. By authentically sharing my own journey and the many seasons of life I've experienced, my hope was to inspire others to live confidently in their own story. I believe each of us was created with purpose, and it's our unique differences that make us stronger.

What causes are you passionate about?
Causes I am passionate about are giving back to underserved communities, food insecurity and helping foster youth.

Do you volunteer? If so, where?
I volunteer with United Friends, the Plus Me Project and with Girls with Gifts.

What is an interesting fact about you?
An interesting fact about me is that I love turning ordinary moments into celebrations. I love bringing positive energy, encouraging others, and reminding people that confidence starts with being yourself.

What is your favorite part of game day?
My favorite part of game day is huddling up with my teammates and coaches right before taking the field and the small prayer circle that follows from me and other teammates. This moment is always the most emotional because it reminds me how fortunate I am to live out my dream and be an example of what it looks like to never give up on yourself.

If you could make up a cheerleading superpower, what would it be?
My cheerleading superpower would definitely be unlimited energy with the ability to hype up an entire stadium! Beyond the cheers and smiles, I'd want the power to help everyone feel seen, valued, and confident in who they are.

Do you have any skills or talents that most people don't know about?
Most people are surprised to learn that one of the languages I use to communicate is American Sign Language. I do not come from a deaf or hard of hearing family/community. I fell in love with the language as a child and minored in ASL in undergrad to work on my fluency.

How do you want people to remember you?
I want people to remember me as everyone's biggest cheerleader. I want people to remember me as someone who would not only have your back but someone that would always love and support others through growth. When I'm remembered I hope to bring the biggest smiles to faces and joy to hearts.

What is a personal goal you are working towards this year?
My main goal this year is to have more fun! This means enjoying the moments I have worked and trained so hard for. If I'm having more fun than the people around me will also have more fun which is the best thing I could ever ask for... to help make others smile.

What is your favorite thing about Gold Rush?
The MAGIC!!!! It feels unexplainable… but I'll try. Gold Rush is one of the most magical experiences and truly a gift that keeps on giving. It feels like being a kid in a candy store, surrounded by excitement, joy, and endless possibilities. Every moment is filled with connection, unforgettable memories, and the opportunity to share something special with the fans and my teammates. I'm so grateful to be part of something that brings so much energy, happiness, and meaning to so many people.

What song gets you pumped up on game day?
Tell Me When to Go - E40 & Keak Da Sneak -- on game day and all throughout #IYKYK

If you were a football player, what position would you play?
If I were a football player, I'd probably play wide receiver. I love the idea of creating big moments, bringing energy to the field, and being someone my teammates can count on when it matters most. Plus, catching a game winning touchdown and doing a touchdown dance would be a pretty fun way to celebrate!

What is your favorite pregame ritual?
My favorite pregame ritual is definitely my prayer time. I love having a moment before the game to center myself, say a prayer, and get excited for the experience ahead. Then it's all about bringing the energy, sharing the joy, and making memories with my teammates and the fans.

What are you most looking forward to this season?
I am so excited to be back in Levi's Stadium cheering on the BEST team in the league with the BEST fans in the NFL. The Faithful are truly unmatched, and one of my favorite parts of every season is getting to connect with our Junior Gold Rush members. Being able to dance with them, share in their excitement, and be a positive example for the next generation is such a special reminder of the impact this role can have. I can't wait to create more unforgettable memories together this season!

Is there anything else you'd like to share with the Faithful? What do you want us to know about you?
I'm the person who will hype you up, laugh way too hard at my own jokes, and turn a normal moment into a lifelong memory... and I can't wait to do just that with you all this season! GO NINERS!!!!!!