We had the good fortune of connecting with Kijana Sharif Hudggins-Blanding and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kijana Sharif, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
Most are unaware that the name of my business is not named after myself. The majority automatically assume that Savannah is my name. Only people who know me actually know that Savannah is not my name and only those who are close to me know the complete background behind the name.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am very thankful and grateful to say that I have held down a full time job working with special needs children and adults for the school district since I was 18 years old. I am now 49 turning 50 this December and I transitioned positions about 6 years ago. I still continue to work full time for the school district daily while pursuing my passion of cooking and opening a cafe. I am very pleased with myself for never staying stagnant in my career. I’m always pursuing higher positions in leadership roles and never settling for less.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Definitely I would wine and dine my guest at the expense of my own labor. But I must say I would have to take them out to the beach for sunrise or sunset with a basket full of yummy goodness. The beach is my happy place and what’s better than enjoying a great meal by the water with great company. We would also venture into a few local eateries and maybe do a bit of site seeing during the day and night life in DTLA and local LA spots. To end the week off I would take my guest to church at Another Level Ministries where I am a happy member and we would rejoice in the Lord and give thanks and praise. Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
God and my family deserve all the credit and more. I can’t begin to tell you how many times I have been overwhelmed, tired, frustrated and more. I have wanted to throw in the towel, give up, but God and my family intervened. My family are my motivators. With the love of God and my family I am still going strong and I plan on building and building getting better and better.

Instagram: Savannah_bananas17

Facebook: Savannah B Delectables

Youtube: Savannah Bananas Variety Show

Other: (TikTok) Savannah Bananas

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.