My Story
I'm a mission-driven entrepreneur, community leader, and advocate for inclusive economic growth in Bellevue.
Why I'm Running
I've called Bellevue home since 1994. My journey here has been defined by a deep commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive community for all residents.
In 2016, I founded Bellden Ventures and established Bellevue's first mission-driven cafe. More than just a business, it's become a hub for social impact, partnering with over 30 local nonprofits and providing workforce development opportunities for marginalized individuals in our community.
My commitment to Bellevue extends across multiple sectors - from serving on the King County Immigrant & Refugee Commission to co-chairing the Open Space Equity Cabinet, from the Overlake Medical Center Foundation to the Bellevue Schools Foundation. Through these roles, I've worked to create lasting positive change in healthcare access, education, environmental justice, and economic opportunity. Now, I want to bring this collaborative, impact-driven approach to the City Council.
My Community Involvement
I believe in active community engagement. Here's how I serve our city:
King County Immigrant & Refugee Commission
I drive systemic change by developing equitable policies and programs that empower our immigrant and refugee residents.
King County SCAP Task Force
I contribute to the Strategic Climate Action Plan (SCAP), helping develop initiatives that reduce emissions, prepare for climate impacts, build community resilience, and create green career pathways.
King County Open Space Equity Cabinet
I lead efforts to increase access to green spaces in underserved neighborhoods and advocate for environmental justice initiatives.
Bellevue Schools Foundation
I help launch initiatives providing academic support and wellness resources to over 1,000 students across diverse backgrounds.
Overlake Medical Center Foundation
I spearhead strategic initiatives to improve healthcare access for all Bellevue residents.
Achievements and Recognition
Our work has been recognized by leading publications and organizations:
Most Philanthropic Company
425 Business Magazine
Family Business of the Year
425 Business Magazine
Family Owned Business Honoree
Puget Sound Business Journal
Business of the Year
Visit Bellevue Destination Award
Nicest Place in Washington
Reader's Digest
Chef Bootcamp for Policy and Change
The James Beard Foundation
My Impact
Here are some ways I've worked to make a difference in our community:
Bellden Cafe Impact
I founded Bellevue's first mission-driven cafe, partnering with 30+ local nonprofits and mentoring over 100 marginalized individuals through workforce development.
Visit Bellevue & Downtown Association
I partner with city officials to develop inclusive economic recovery strategies and implement programs that promote equitable growth for businesses of all sizes, particularly minority-owned enterprises.
BEST Community Ambassador
I advance the mission of Businesses Ending Slavery & Trafficking by educating employers and creating employment pathways for survivors.
PorchLight Leadership
I develop fundraising campaigns highlighting stories of Bellevue's unhoused residents and strengthen community representation through inclusive volunteer recruitment.
Vision for Bellevue
My vision for Bellevue is rooted in creating a vibrant, inclusive city that embraces growth while preserving our community's character. Together, we can build a city that works for everyone.
Join My Campaign
I need your help to create positive change in Bellevue. Whether you can volunteer, donate, or simply spread the word, every action makes a difference.