Ilana Melka is the SPARC Programs & Operations Specialist. In her role, she supports SPARC programs, expanding engagement with members and the broader community. Ilana also coordinates key organizational functions including facilitating memberships, coordinating the work of the SPARC Steering Committee, and providing general operational support.
Prior to working at SPARC, Ilana worked as a development manager for Prisma, an arts association where she wrote grants, coordinated events and managed the residency program. She also has experience as a digital media and business development consultant for non-governmental organizations and startups. Ilana is passionate about social change and has worked on several campaigns, including the Remain Campaign in the UK.
Ilana has a Bachelor of Science degree in Politics and International Relations from the University of Bristol. In college, she studied abroad at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of Coimbra in Portugal.
Ilana has dual citizenship in the UK and the US. She speaks four languages and lives in Lisbon, Portugal. Her hobbies include music production, cooking (especially fermentation!), yoga and gardening.