“My name is Laila Markland and I’m going into my senior year at River Ridge High School! I’m currently a member of the Black Student Union and The Lacey Youth Council. My family has owned a small bake shop in downtown Olympia called Sift & Gather for about 2 years, and we’ve lived in Lacey Washington for 6 years. Since 2018, I’ve spent time exploring what health and fitness feels like to me, and I’ve grown to really enjoy movement and exercise. I’m very grateful and excited to continue my journey with health and wellness while surrounded by the strong, powerful energy you all bring to Athena. I look forward to working with you all!”

She is passionate about learning new things, working in a community to create change, and mental health. 

She is wildly happy when reading a good book, and when she’s with people she loves.

She feels most confident after a workout, after doing something that scares her, and after she’s taken time to breathe & reset. 

She is terrified of natural disasters, the ocean, and heights, 

She never grows old of a hot bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup! 

She is inspired by her family and the people around her.