Susanna Southworth, PhD, JD of Restore the Child, PLLC shares how she leads with empowerment while advocating for survivors of sex trafficking and child sexual abuse material. Through litigation, she helps survivors pursue restitution and civil judgments as part of their healing journey and supports survivor centered organizations like CHILD USA and Rotary International. Susanna also reflects on the mindset that guides her work, “Find the joy in learning,” and the inspiration she draws from retired State Supreme Court Justice Faith Ireland, a legal scholar and mentor to other women.
Community HERoes Among Us: Megan Fouty
Megan Fouty of Tin Can shares how she leads with authenticity and creates pathways for emerging women leaders through mentorship and connection. Overseeing legal and people functions at a Seattle technology start-up, Megan stays connected with mentees, speaks at law schools on building networks of support, and wrote The Art of Networking to help underrepresented leaders strengthen their network and brand. Explore the full spotlight to hear Megan’s leadership approach and advice for the next generation of leaders.
Community HERoes Among Us: Dr. Jenna Butler
Dr. Jenna Butler, an applied research scientist at Microsoft, shares what it means to lead with joy, clear boundaries, and authenticity while raising a family and building a career. She reflects on modeling family first leadership for emerging women, why “No is a complete sentence,” and the lasting influence of her mother’s legacy. Read Jenna’s advice on navigating a rapidly changing world and staying grounded in what matters most.
Community HERoes Among Us: Doris O'Neal
Doris O’Neal, Director of Gender-Based Violence Specialized Services at YWCA Seattle, shares how she leads with courage, adaptability, and purpose while overseeing a team of 14 advocates. She opens up about mentorship, the Audre Lorde quote that keeps her from choosing silence, and the moment she had to pivot quickly when critical funding was reduced. Read the lessons she’s passing on, the women who inspire her, and the advice she offers to every woman stepping into leadership.
Finding Love, Safety, and New Beginnings
February at REST held both the moments that feel light and the moments that require everything we have. From a Valentine’s Day celebration filled with bouquets, laughter, and small reminders of normalcy, to a sudden safety situation that demanded swift coordination and deep care, our team and community showed what it means to stand with survivors in real time. Read the full February recap to see how partners, volunteers, and staff helped create warmth, protect safety, and support new beginnings when it mattered most.

