Jelani Nanayakkara was born on August 31st, 2001, in Ottawa, Canada to parents of Sri Lankan descent. Jelani is known for her role as Bethany de la Fressange on Big Top Academy (2018), barista in A Merry Holiday (2019), and Raana on The Bold Type (2021). Growing up, Jelani did cultural dancing and earned her black belt in karate. She also participated in track and field events and played various sports. Jelani can speak efficiently in both an American and British accent.