Hometown: Gabon, Central Africa
Major: Public Administration
Future Plans: Work as a government advisor and earn a master’s degree

Emmanuelle Yakana chose the University of Illinois Springfield “because of all the leadership opportunities that are given to every student no matter their background.” On campus, she is the international student senator on the Student Government Association, president of the International Students Friendship organization, a student ambassador for the Office of Admissions and United in Safety and a teaching assistant. She is a member of the National Society for Leadership and Success, the International Students Association, the African Students Association and the UIS Springfest committee. She is a student officer for the University Bible Fellowship organization and a worship team member for the Christian Students Fellowship. “What I like the most about UIS is that It is allowing to meet people from all over the world and serve them through my leadership roles,” she said. Following graduation from UIS, she plans on getting experience working as a government advisor, while earning a master’s degree.

Leadership is lived at UIS. Every day.