Jana Long
Jana Long is the co-founder and executive director of the Black Yoga Teachers Alliance, a nationwide organization founded in 2016 that supports the continuing education and professional development of Black yoga teachers across the United States and around the world. With over 16 years of experience in health and wellness, Jana offers transformational leadership, strategic planning, and organizational management, developing programs that promote community healing, healthy aging, and holistic wellness. She also manages daily operations at Power of One Yoga, LLC, and oversees its 200-hour registered yoga teacher training program, including integrative workshops and therapeutic yoga for seniors. A lifelong yoga practitioner since the early 1970s, Jana specializes in therapeutic yoga for adults aged 60 and older, concentrating on managing chronic conditions, mindfulness, and healthy aging. Her expertise includes yoga therapy, Ayurveda, meditation facilitation, adult education, and wellness programming. Additionally, she is a certified Master Gardener, Brain Longevity Specialist, and educator, conducting workshops and lectures on herbal medicine, Ayurveda, and integrative wellness for community organizations, senior centers, and educational institutions. Her professional skills also encompass nonprofit leadership, event planning, content development, and capacity building for diverse teams and boards. Before her career in wellness and nonprofit leadership, Jana distinguished herself with 20 years at The Washington Post, where she gained recognition for her organizational skills, leadership, and ability to foster trust and collaboration. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Howard University and a master’s degree in nonprofit/public organizational management from the University of Maryland Global College. Beyond her professional work, Jana is a multi-disciplinary artist, writer, and gourmet cook, blending her passions for creativity, wellness, and community service to inspire and empower others.
• Brain Longevity Specialist
• Certified Master Gardener
• Certified Yoga Therapist
• Certified Yoga for Seniors Therapist
• Certified Yoga Teacher 500
• University of Maryland Global College - MS
• Howard University - BA
• Black Yoga Teachers Alliance, Inc.
• Yoga Alliance
• International Association of Yoga Therapists
• Kripalu Yoga Teachers Association
• Give Back Yoga Foundation
• Baltimore City Master Gardeners - University of Maryland Extension
• GLOBAL PEACE INITIATIVE OF WOMEN RELIGIOUS & SPIRITUAL LEADERS INC
What do you attribute your success to?
I credit my success to a combination of longevity, purpose, and a strong commitment to family and community. Yoga has been part of my life for over fifty years, and during that time, it has shaped how I listen, lead, and serve. The practice teaches patience, self-awareness, and the importance of staying grounded while responding to immediate needs.
My belief in meaningful work comes from lived experience, which has been equally significant. My journey has also been shaped by life beyond the yoga mat. As a single parent, I raised three daughters who have become thoughtful, engaged citizens with successful careers. Motherhood was one of my greatest teachers. It required resilience, creativity, and the ability to care for others while continuing to grow myself.
Like many people, I have gone through my share of highs and lows, both financially and emotionally. Those experiences taught me how to navigate tough times and to believe that, with persistence and a clear sense of purpose, I can find my way through. This outlook has greatly influenced my work as the co-founder of the Black Yoga Teachers Alliance and as a yoga teacher committed to building community and supporting others' growth.
I've also learned that leadership isn’t about being the center; it’s about building alliances, promoting collaboration, and nurturing others' talents. The success of any nonprofit effort depends on community, as well as the collective wisdom, generosity, and dedication of people who share a vision.
Ultimately, I credit my success to remaining curious, constantly learning, and trusting that when purpose and service come together, the work naturally moves ahead.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always pay attention to what others tell you about yourself, even if it’s not what you want to hear. Feedback—both positive and critical—can be a powerful tool for growth and self-improvement.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't be afraid. Fear is the main thing that gets in our way. When you want to start something, the fear comes up: Am I going to be able to do it? Where do I start? I don't have enough money. I must wait till I... Don't be afraid. Jump in. Jump off the cliff. As long as you wake up the next day, and I mean that metaphorically, of course. Don't let your fear take over. And don't share what you are trying to do with other people. Keep it to yourself, and just do it.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
A significant challenge in my field is ensuring strong nonprofit leadership succession while managing the demands of running a growing national organization. At the same time, there’s a tremendous opportunity to leverage visibility and professional networks to attract new leaders, secure funding, and build collaborations that advance the work of therapeutic yoga for older adults.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are trustworthiness, authenticity, service to the community, and creativity. These principles shape how I lead, collaborate, and contribute meaningfully in every endeavor.
Locations
Black Yoga Teachers Alliance
Baltimore, MD 21215