Ivana Alawi, born Mariam Sayed Sameer Marbella Al-Alawi on December 25, 1996, is a prominent Filipino actress, model, YouTuber, and entrepreneur. She has made a significant impact on social media, becoming the most subscribed Filipino celebrity on YouTube. Recognized for her engaging content, she was honored by Google as the “Top YouTube Content Creator” in the Philippines for two consecutive years.
Alawi’s acting career began on GMA-7’s “StarStruck” in 2015, where she placed among the top 22 contestants and subsequently signed with GMA Artist Center. Her breakthrough came in 2018 with her role as Rina in ABS-CBN’s “Precious Hearts Romances Presents: Araw Gabi.” In 2019, she further established her acting credentials with appearances as Amor in “Ang Probinsyano,” Lolita in “Sino ang Maysala?: Mea Culpa,” and her film debut in “Open” and the Metro Manila Film Festival entry “3pol Trobol: Huli Ka Balbon!” These performances earned her the “Best New Female TV Personality” award at the PMPC Star Awards for Television.
In addition to her acting and online presence, Alawi is the CEO of her skincare brand, Ivana Skin. Her entrepreneurial spirit and beauty have garnered her recognition, including being ranked fourth on TC Candler’s “100 Most Beautiful Faces in the World” list in 2021.
Born to a Filipino mother and a Moroccan father, Alawi was raised in Bahrain before moving to the Philippines. She is the third of four children, with her youngest sibling being former child actress Mona Alawi. Following the death of her father in 2018, she inherited his estate.
Alawi’s personal life has also been in the spotlight. On January 3, 2024, she confirmed her relationship with a non-showbiz person. Despite rumors of an affair with Albee Benitez, he publicly apologized and clarified there was no truth to the speculations.
Ivana Alawi continues to captivate audiences with her multifaceted talents and dynamic presence both online and in the entertainment industry.