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.

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  • Portrait of Dave Bertsch, a light skinned man with grey hair.

    Welcome New Foundation Board Members

    April 20th, 2023

    Join us in welcoming our two newest Foundation Board members, Dave Bertsch and Yue Ou, at The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. Dave and Yue both bring a wealth of experience and a unique [...]

  • A man with dark skin is wearing a suit and holding a white cane in a board room.

    4 reasons you should consider joining the Lighthouse Board

    February 28th, 2023

    The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is on the lookout for passionate individuals who are interested in making a difference in the lives of those who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with other disabilities. We’re [...]

  • A large room full of people sitting around tables. One person standing in front is speaking at a podium.

    Celebrating our Donors – 2022 Appreciation Breakfast

    January 19th, 2023

    Events are back! We gathered together for our 2022 Appreciation Breakfast to celebrate the generosity and support of our community. In closing out a terrific year, The Lighthouse for the Blind Foundation was thrilled to [...]