Ubax Gardheere

DIRECTOR OF INVESTMENT AND FUND DEVELOPMENT

Ubax is an accomplished professional who currently holds the positions of Director of Fund Development for the Cultural Space Agency and Managing Director for Savannah Community Consultants. With a strong background in community development and equitable practices, she previously served as the Equitable Development Initiative Division Director in the City of Seattle Office of Planning and Community Development. In this role, she oversaw the EDI fund, investing in community-based organizations focused on anti-displacement strategies and economic development in Seattle. Ubax successfully allocated $100 million to community based organizations and leveraged an additional $300 million from other City of Seattle Departments for BIPOC equitable development projects. Notably, she played a crucial role in transferring City-owned property to three Black-led organizations in the Central district during the racial reckoning in 2020. Ubax's values are deeply rooted in social justice and transformative practice. She is committed to prioritizing equity and authentically listening to the community, reflecting her extensive experience in community development and building inclusive visions with Seattle's communities of color. Her involvement extends to various initiatives, including the Housing Affordability Livability Agenda Committee, where she actively contributed to advancing equitable transit-oriented development priorities, land use policy, affordable housing policy, and community-based participatory planning. Additionally, she served as a Governance Group Member for Communities of Opportunity, focusing on equitable health, housing, and economic opportunity across King County. Ubax also played a role in addressing housing challenges as a board member of the Regional Coalition for Housing (ARCH), a partnership aimed at preserving and increasing housing supply for low- and moderate-income households in the region. Ubax's educational background includes a Bachelor's degree in Management Information Systems and E-Commerce from Washington State University, providing her with a strong foundation in technology and its application to management practices. She further enhanced her skills through a Fundraising Certificate from the University of Washington, equipping her with essential knowledge and strategies for successful fundraising. Committed to public service and community development, she pursued a Master's degree in Public Administration from Seattle University. This advanced degree equipped her with comprehensive knowledge of public administration principles, policy analysis, and leadership, enabling her to navigate complex roles and make a substantial impact in her field. With her academic achievements and wealth of practical experience, Ubax stands as a formidable leader in the realm of equitable economic development and equitable practices. Despite her professional achievements, she remains a proud single parent to three energetic children, who inspire her and keep her actively engaged in both her personal and professional life.