Isabel Mata

Council Member

Council Position #2, Elected in 2025

I am a queer, neurodivergent writer, advocate, and mindfulness meditation teacher with more than eight years of experience in public engagement, community building, and social impact leadership. My work is grounded in collaboration, care, and a deep belief that strong communities are built when people feel heard, respected, and connected.

I was raised between Rochester, New York, and Nashville, Tennessee, as a child of divorce and one of seven siblings, always singing and dancing wherever I could. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from New York University, graduating with honors from the Global Liberal Arts program with a focus on Contemporary Culture and Creative Production. During college, I spent a formative year studying abroad in London before completing my studies on NYU’s New York campus.

After graduation, I began my career at L’Oréal, working in global brand marketing with Maybelline in New York City and later with Urban Decay in Newport Beach, California. In 2020, a career transition led me to deepen my focus on mindfulness, mental health, and values-aligned leadership. I am trained in Shamatha meditation and have since dedicated my work to helping individuals, teams, and communities build trust, navigate difference, and strengthen relationships.

Today, I am a small business owner supporting organizations and individuals in cultivating healthier, more connected cultures through listening programs. My freelance writing on mental health, relationships, and well-being has appeared in national outlets including Wondermind, Cosmopolitan, Well+Good, Marie Claire, and Elite Daily.

Locally, I serve on the board of Limmud Seattle, contribute to the Washington State Jewish Historical Society, and curated Confronting Hate Together, an initiative focused on addressing hate and fostering dialogue. I am also a member of the LETI Childcare Coalition, working to address childcare access and affordability in Lynnwood and across the region.

Outside of work and public service, I enjoy spending time with my husband Richard and our three cats as well as painting, practicing film photography, and making music. I play acoustic and electric guitar in a band with my husband, and on Friday nights you can often find me singing karaoke at Peace of Mind Brewing. I’m also an avid Swiftie.

I ran for City Council because I believe local government works best when it is collaborative, accessible, and grounded in listening. I am committed to working alongside my fellow councilmembers, city staff, and community partners to help build a Lynnwood where people of all backgrounds feel safe, supported, and able to thrive.

I want to hear from you. If you have concerns, ideas, or simply want to share what’s happening in your neighborhood, please reach out. Even when I don’t have immediate answers, I will always listen and do my best to connect you with support.

Liaison Roles

Alliance for Housing Affordability
Disability Board
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Lynnwood Tourism Advisory Council

*Information shared by Council Members is presented as received and has not been edited or modified by staff.