Shemyla Anwar

Shemyla Anwar is a technology and product leader with more than 20 years of experience building AI, data, and platform-driven systems at companies including Amazon, Expedia, GEICO, and Microsoft. Throughout her career, she has led large-scale digital transformation initiatives focused on innovation, customer experience, partnerships, and scalable growth.

Shemyla is passionate about building inclusive systems and creating opportunities for underserved communities. Across her leadership roles, she introduced mentorship, sponsorship, and returnship programs that significantly increased diverse representation within engineering and technology organizations. She also actively supports women in technology through mentorship and engagement with organizations such as the Society of Women Engineers and Girls Who Code.

Outside of her professional work, Shemyla serves on the board of a K–12 school for underprivileged students in India. What began as a small kindergarten has grown into a broader educational and community institution supporting education, healthcare initiatives including cataract surgeries and vaccinations, and certification programs for the local community.

Her connection to the Lighthouse mission is also deeply personal as a parent navigating visual impairment within her family. She is especially interested in helping expand partnerships, employment opportunities, and innovation that can further empower people who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with additional disabilities.

Shemyla is excited to contribute her experience in partnerships, technology, and community impact to support the Lighthouse’s mission and future growth.

Portrait of a woman wearing a sleeveless shirt, with shoulder length brown hair
  • Cindy Van Winkle and Meka White

    A Garden Party to Remember

    July 26th, 2018

    On Thursday, July 19th, Ethel L. Dupar’s Fragrant Garden was in full bloom and the perfect backdrop for our annual Summer Garden Party at the Lighthouse. The weather was filled with sunshine, a light breeze, [...]

  • People posing for a photo

    3rd Annual Lighthouse Food Truck Rally

    June 25th, 2018

    On Thursday, June 7th, we kicked off the summer early and in style at our third annual Lighthouse Food Truck Rally! With the support of the community, we raised over $7,000 for individuals who [...]

  • From Left to Right: Interim President and CEO Brad Wiens, Greg Szabo, Alex Knoll, and VP of Operations Pat O'Hara

    Decade of Opportunities Breakfast

    February 15th, 2018

    Over $11,000 was raised in support of jobs, independence, and empowerment for people who are blind, in Spokane! […]