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.
A message from Foundation Board President Barbara Ross
Foundation Board President Barbara Ross Greetings, I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as Seattle Lighthouse for the Blind Foundation Board President for the upcoming term. Our mission is powerful and [...]
A New Kind of Fundraiser: Dim Sum Dining
Staff and guests enjoying Dim Sum delicacies “The idea was to have fun eating Chinese dim sum while raising money to support the Lighthouse’s mission to create and enhance opportunities for independence and [...]
Welcome George Abbott to The Lighthouse for the Blind Inc. Board of Trustees
We’re honored to welcome George Abbott to The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. Board of Trustees. George was born blind due to under-developed optic nerves. He grew up in a suburb of Chicago, and after [...]
