Sarah enjoys a sunrise with her husband, Jamil, in Moab, Utah.
Sarah Rehemtulla joins Inatai Foundation as Strategy & Impact Associate. We asked Sarah ten questions to learn more about her background, community, and how she connects to our work at Inatai.
Name: Sarah Rehemtulla
Pronouns: she/her
Role: Administrative Associate
Home County: Bothell, Snohomish County
1. What are three words that describe you?
Adventurous, organized, community-minded
2. What is the “long story short” of how you landed at Inatai?
My background is in elementary education where, through my work with students, families, and colleagues, I saw up close how systems, access, and relationships shape our daily experiences. Over time, I became more aware of how strong organization and thoughtful systems matter in supporting people. What draws me to Inatai are the values and the approach to change and the foundation’s commitment to being guided by communities. This role felt like the natural next step and a way to contribute to work I care about.
3. What excites you most about being part of Team Inatai?
I’m excited to learn and grow in this role while contributing to an organization whose values align with my own. I’m especially drawn to Inatai’s long-term commitment to showing up differently by building trust-based relationships, staying accountable to communities, and helping shift the systems and decisions that shape people’s lives. I’m looking forward to building relationships, strengthening day-to-day processes, and supporting work grounded in trust and shared responsibility.
4. Tell us about the community or communities you belong to.
I am Pakistani-American and part of the Shia Muslim community. I was raised in a family and religious community that emphasized connection, care, and showing up for one another. These communities shaped my values around relationships, responsibility, and service, and they continue to influence how I approach my work and the way I engage with others.
5. Inatai’s strategies are underlined by a 50-Year Vision informed by communities. What is it about your community that keeps you hopeful for the future?
What gives me hope is the way people continue to show up for one another in small, consistent ways. Mutual care, listening, and shared responsibility feel like powerful foundations for a more just future.
6. Finish this sentence: The Inatai value the most resonates with me is…
Joy.
7. What is your favorite fact about Washington?
One of my favorite things about Washington is the access to nature, from forests to coastlines, which encourages reflection, connection, and balance in everyday life.
8. Where is your favorite place in Washington?
My favorite place in Washington is Shi Shi Beach. I love walking through the forest to reach the water, exploring the tide pools, and spending time by the ocean. It’s a place that feels calm, grounding, and renewing.
9. What is the last thing you read, watched, or listened to that you would recommend? Why?
I recently watched Matlock, a TV series. I liked how each episode pulls you in with a sense of mystery and problem-solving, along with moments of humor and surprise. It’s engaging without feeling heavy, and is easy to keep watching.
10. What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
I enjoy cooking and baking, hiking, and spending time with my family, friends, and my dog, Nahla. I also like unwinding with a good TV show and making time for simple, creative projects.
