I wanted all of my Project Repaint figures to fit somewhere with the classic G.I. Joe line. I was able to make Zanya's colors resemble the Sears exclusive Dreadnok Ground Assault, and felt that she would make a great vehicle driver for the set.
When the internet exclusive 7-pack pictures were shown, it clicked in my head to make the figure completely out of Zarana. I think that this head looks younger than the "earring" version, which is now my default Zarana.