Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Timeline
Generic

Alanza Harrison

Detroit,MI

Summary

Elite institutions often attract the brightest stars—those already shining. I have devoted my life to cultivating the light in youth born in the dark. I always say, "We aren't always the brightest light bulbs in the box, but we do shine!"

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience

Work History

Professional Photographer

Porverti (Photojournalism Identity)
01.2018 - Current
  • Captured 11,000 raw, honest portraits of Detroit youth and adults—using the camera to amplify stories of survival, strength, and transformation.
  • Developed creative concepts for photo shoots, aligning with client visions and brand identity.
  • Captured high-quality images for diverse clientele, ensuring satisfaction and artistic expression.
  • Developed two-long form educational and reflective works, blending personal development, poverty, rebirth, and resilience of Detroit youth.

Startup Founder

ReCare Detroit
01.2013 - 01.2020
  • Founded a mission-driven real estate initiative focused on rehabilitating homes, lots, and neglected spaces throughout Detroit.
  • One of the first community-rooted efforts to purchase and restore blight-infested properties in post-recession Detroit.
  • Led acquisition and cleanup of abandoned properties in overlooked, underserved neighborhoods often left behind in revitalization efforts.
  • Spearheaded local park restorations—including a grassroots effort to fill cracked basketball courts with fresh concrete, restoring safe play areas for Detroit youth.
  • Documented community improvement projects as both a civic leader and visual storyteller, advocating for urban investment through restorative action.
  • ReCare Detroit represents a philosophy of healing both land and legacy—rebuilding environments while honoring the people within them.
  • Developed comprehensive land use plans addressing community needs and environmental sustainability.

Startup Founder

Growing Up Detroit
01.2013 - 01.2020
  • Designed and led a mentorship initiative for Detroit youth (K–12), offering academic coaching, life planning, and college preparation.
  • Provided early exposure to basic science and learning strategies to prevent “weeding out” in STEM courses.
  • Tutored students in chemistry, biology, literacy, and MCAT prep using a culturally competent, responsive approach.
  • Mentored students into Division I athletics, medical school, and elite undergraduate programs.
  • Fostered leadership and goal-setting among young men of color in Detroit.
  • Developed and implemented strategic outreach programs to enhance community engagement.
  • Facilitated workshops and training sessions to educate diverse groups on health and wellness topics.
  • Developed and implemented community outreach programs to enhance public engagement and awareness.

Coach & Personal Basketball Trainer

Self
01.2012 - 01.2018
  • Led structured fitness and personal development training for youth, integrating mental focus, discipline, and teamwork.
  • Mentored through sport, using basketball as a platform for self-confidence, accountability, and leadership.
  • Promoted nutrition and holistic health awareness to support student-athletes' growth both on and off the court.
  • Developed tailored training programs to enhance athlete performance and skills.
  • Guided a high school bench player to walk-on status at a nationally ranked NCAA Division I program through individualized coaching and development.

Case Manager

Evergreen Children’s Services
01.2009 - 01.2012
  • Provided case management for 30 + families and children in crisis.
  • Delivered housing support, social service referrals, and family counseling.
  • Attended court hearings and wrote case reports to advocate for client safety and wellbeing.
  • Coordinated multidisciplinary team meetings to ensure comprehensive care for children and families.
  • Developed individualized service plans to address client needs and promote positive outcomes.
  • Conducted thorough assessments to evaluate client situations and recommend appropriate interventions.
  • Facilitated client assessments to identify needs and develop individualized service plans.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Psychology / Media Arts, Communications

Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, MI

Skills

  • K–12 mentoring expertise
  • Property rehabilitation experience
  • Educational methodologies
  • Community leadership experience
  • Narrative photography
  • Culturally Responsive Pedagogy
  • Culturally aware counseling
  • Proficient in Spanish communication
  • Curriculum & Media Development
  • Nutrition & Athletic Coaching
  • Institutional Outreach & College Readiness
  • Effective case management strategies

Languages

Spanish
Professional Working

Timeline

Professional Photographer

Porverti (Photojournalism Identity)
01.2018 - Current

Startup Founder

ReCare Detroit
01.2013 - 01.2020

Startup Founder

Growing Up Detroit
01.2013 - 01.2020

Coach & Personal Basketball Trainer

Self
01.2012 - 01.2018

Case Manager

Evergreen Children’s Services
01.2009 - 01.2012

Bachelor of Science - Psychology / Media Arts, Communications

Eastern Michigan University