Born in the U.S. with roots in the Philippines, Leslie leads marketing, communications, and brand strategy at RAI, showcasing the artisans’ journeys and creativity into stories that inspire and drive impact. She believes in the power of storytelling to connect communities and showcase mission-driven work. 

Hayden came to RAI through her desire to be active in the Lake City community while she was still a member of the tenured English faculty at Edmonds College. She has since retired, but retains the deep commitment to education, mentorship and diversity initiatives that inspired that career. Her current work is in property management, which allows her to work from her laptop—often from Kenya, where she has spent the last 20 years as the International Program Director for Cura Orphanage.

April is a month of  blossoming flowers, warmer weather, and the transition from the long days of winter. Spring is a time for new beginnings, personal reflection, setting intentions, and entering a new chapter. 

This RAI team member, who wished to remain anonymous, immigrated to the US from Vietnam and used her sewing skills to become a RAI artisan. She later became the office bookkeeper as she had a previous working experience in Vietnam in that role. Now, she feels like she’s in her dream job at RAI. 

As we spring into the fourth month of the year, we’re reminded that we blossom together. Each day, through shared effort and commitment, we continue to create opportunities, strengthen community, and move forward with purpose.

This month, that growth was reflected in a powerful way—through a milestone that reminds us exactly why this work matters.

As we work our way through March, we’re reminded that growth is not something we do alone but is something we build together. Each day, through shared effort and commitment, we continue to create opportunities, strengthen community, and move forward with purpose.

Originally from Taiwan, Isabella earned her AA in Apparel Design from Seattle Central College in 2019. She joined RAI in its early stages in 2020, working on projects like making masks for medical workers during COVID. She rejoined RAI in 2022 as a designer and today serves as Production Manager. She often showcases her love of design by making her own clothing.

Before joining RAI, Tessa worked in Seattle’s Lake City neighborhood, helping small businesses thrive and promoting community building through economic development. She is excited to continue serving this vibrant community, especially the women who are building lives and businesses through RAI’s mission.