Introducing Three Trailblazing Women Joining the Washington State Women’s Commission
We are thrilled to announce the addition of three remarkable women to the Washington State Women’s Commission. Each of these leaders brings a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to advocacy, and a passion for empowering women in their communities. Meet Allison Ford, Yolanda King-Lowe, and Malia Razzaia —three women whose diverse backgrounds and profound impact will undoubtedly enhance our mission to champion the rights and opportunities for women and girls across Washington state.
Allison Ford: Bridging Policy and Advocacy with a Passion for Women’s Issues
Allison Ford, currently the Public Policy Manager for the Pacific Northwest at Uber Technologies, Inc., brings over 20 years of dynamic experience in public policy, advocacy, and coalition-building to the Commission. Allison has been a leading voice in shaping policy at the intersection of technology and labor and aims to find solutions that benefit all stakeholders. Her career has taken her from Washington, D.C., where she was a prominent advocate for women’s issues, to her home state of Washington, where her deep roots and commitment to her community continue to inspire her work.
A proud 5th generation Washingtonian and member of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Allison’s dedication to public service is personal. She has a rich history of mentorship and leadership in initiatives focused on women’s foreign policy, technology, and the future of work. With her extensive background in public affairs, her passion for advocating on behalf of women and families, and her connection to private sector powerhouses, Allison will bring valuable insights and strategies to the Women’s Commission.
Yolanda King-Lowe: Labor Leader and Advocate for Gender and Racial Justice
Yolanda King-Lowe’s journey from healthcare worker to union leader is a testament to her dedication to advocacy, equity, and justice. As the Secretary Treasurer of SEIU Healthcare 1199NW, Yolanda represents over 34,000 healthcare workers across Washington state and Montana. Her career began at Providence Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, where her experiences as a rank-and-file member ignited her passion for fighting for workers’ rights. Yolanda has been a key figure in significant movements, including the Fight for $15, and has helped organize thousands of new union members to use their collective power.
Yolanda’s leadership is deeply rooted in her commitment to racial justice and creating healthier, safer workplaces. Her ability to mobilize and lead, as demonstrated during the three-day strike by 8,000 members at Swedish in 2020, underscores her determination to drive change. Yolanda’s work in the union is not just about fighting for better wages and conditions—it’s about building a stronger, more inclusive community.
Malia Razzaia: Champion of Economic Empowerment and Leadership Development
Malia Razzaia is a force in the nonprofit world and currently serves as the Executive Director of Dress for Success Seattle. With over two decades of experience, Malia has dedicated her career to fostering economic freedoms for women and advancing their access to opportunity. Her expertise in strategic leadership and program development has allowed her to drive impactful initiatives, both domestically and internationally. Malia is not only an advocate for women but also for inclusive growth that brings men into the fold as allies.
Beyond her executive roles, Malia is a seasoned educator, having taught Business, Leadership, and Communications at various universities in the U.S. and abroad. Her experience in NGOs spans from large U.S.-based organizations to grassroots international entities, always with a focus on anti-discrimination, human rights, and leadership development. Malia’s vision is clear: to support the next generation of women as they navigate their paths to claiming their power.
Looking Ahead
As Allison, Yolanda, and Malia join the Washington State Women’s Commission, we are confident that their unique experiences and shared commitment to empowering women will significantly contribute to our mission. Their leadership will help us continue to advocate for policies and programs that uplift women and girls across the state, ensuring that all have the opportunity to thrive in their chosen paths. Welcome to the team, Malia, Allison, and Yolanda—we are honored to have you with us!
ABOUT THE WASHINGTON STATE WOMEN’S COMMISSION
The Washington State Women’s Commission (WSWC) is an executive branch cabinet agency in the Office of Governor Inslee serving as the primary voice in government for Washington women and girls. Signed into law in 2018, WSWC develops policies and initiatives to address critical issues that disproportionately affect women, including childcare access and affordability, domestic and gender-based violence, equal pay, health care access, and intersectional inequities. Through strategic listening and collaboration, we represent the 3.8 million women and girls across the state.
