Our People

Shared Spaces Foundation was built on the shared belief that land rematriation and climate justice are achieved by empowering communities with resources and education.

  • Lee (they/them)

    CO-FOUNDER AND BOARD PRESIDENT

    Lee brings over 12 years of environmental advocacy and hands-on conservation experience to the board. They currently serve as Field Director of The Heron's Nest land back education project. They co-founded River Access Paddle Programs in 2022 to increase inclusion and diversity in environmental education through paddle sports. As an American Canoe Association Certified Instructor for sea kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding, Lee combines technical expertise with community outreach to make environmental experiences accessible to diverse populations.

    Lee's extensive work on the Duwamish River and Salish Sea demonstrates their commitment to watershed protection and waterway preservation. Their approach to environmental stewardship emphasizes generational health and forest conservation, making them a valuable advocate for our organization's mission to create lasting environmental change through education and community engagement.

  • Waiman Lee (she/her)

    CO-FOUNDER AND TREASURER

    Waiman's proven entrepreneurial success and international business expertise strengthen the organization's financial oversight and strategic planning. She founded and operated an international trading company, building partnerships between Washington State and Asian markets, and has thrived as a Seattle-based real estate agent and investor for over a decade. Her experience spans public relations, international commerce, and community engagement through volunteer work with elderly homes and youth centers.

    Growing up in Hong Kong's dense urban environment instilled in Waiman a deep appreciation for environmental preservation and sustainable development. Her cross-cultural business acumen, combined with her passion for creating healthy environments where communities can prosper, makes her well-suited to build strong donor relationships and expand our reach both locally and internationally.

  • Andrew Grueter (he/him)

    SECRETARY

    As an ecologist and community activist, Andrew specializes in environmental restoration, mutual aid, and outdoor education. He joined Shared Spaces Foundation in 2020 while working at the Duwamish Longhouse, and his commitment to the organization's mission has only deepened over time.

    He’s passionate about expanding support for Indigenous Sovereignty and Land Back initiatives while developing community education programs that promote a people-centered approach to environmental and economic justice. His background in both ecology and grassroots activism positions him to bridge technical expertise with community-driven solutions.

  • Kelsey Mitchell (she/they)

    BOARD MEMBER

    Kelsey is an organizer with a decade of experience in program development, organizational operations, grant writing and community engagement. She has worked with various social justice, environmental justice and labor organizations in the Pacific Northwest and California.

    Kelsey joined the Shared Spaces team in 2024 to support organizational development and fundraising. They love working behind the scenes to support organizations functioning smoothly and developing sustainably. Kelsey is a certified ACA Sea Kayak Instructor, and loves being near, on and in water whenever possible.