Kanda Alahan studied at Sonoma State University, the University of Southern California, and the University of Vienna, Austria. After graduating from college, he discovered his wasn’t into working for someone else. He wanted to channel his creative energy into self-employment, so his woodworking hobby became a business and Rivendell was born.
He started selling toys inspired by his sons directly to customers at California craft shows and then at boutiques throughout the country. Within a few years, Kanda realized he wouldn’t be able to make a reasonable living as a toy vendor, so he expanded into custom cabinetry.
His first kitchen was in a house built by his brother. His one-man company continued to grow, and when his sons were old enough, he welcomed them into what has become the family business.
For the past 14 years, Kanda has developed his personal speaking and leadership skills as a member of Toastmasters International. He also belongs to Business Network International (BNI), where he supports other professionals in the local community.
In his free time, Kanda enjoys reading about history, geography, and current events, hosting family gatherings with his grandchildren, and traveling with his wife, Kamala, in their RV. He’s an accomplished home brewer as well, with his own special beer… the “Rivend-Ale!”