Born and raised in Madison County, North Carolina—deep in the heart of Appalachia—Kiana’s life has always been intertwined with the land. In a town of just 563 people, nature was their playground. From peering under rocks for hellbenders to watching the currents carry fallen leaves, they absorbed the language of the land firsthand.
Although they pursued an Art degree at UNC Asheville, they quickly discovered that their true calling was out in the wild. Since 2018, they have thrived as a raft guide—rising to become a Trip Leader and mentor to new guides. In the off-season, they put their knowledge of local ecosystems to work as a landscaper—restoring native plantings, removing invasive species, and rehabilitating damaged landscapes. Kiana’s passion is to strengthen the connection between people and the land they call home.
When Hurricane Helene devastated their hometown, their longtime desire to give back transformed into a mission. They spent the winter clearing flood debris from the river that raised them, determined to help their community heal. That search for meaningful service led them to Project Conserve and their host site, Mountain True, where they now dedicate their skills to protecting and restoring the river and the region that shaped them.