Marlena Powers: Creating a community in which kids can excel

This is one of 12 finalists for The Herald Business Journal’s annual Emerging Leaders awards for 2022. The winner will be named at an event on April 13.

Marlena “Marz” Powers, 36

AVODAH Business Collective, partner and brand development

Marlena “Marz” Powers is a partner and brand developer at AVODAH Business Collective, which means work, worship and service in Hebrew.

The Snohomish-based creative marketing agency aims to be a support for entrepreneurs, helping them develop their brands and generate income, Powers said.

“The AVODAH name embodies our commitment to a business that’s rooted in worship, centered on service, and dedicated to hard work,” she said.

Before that, Powers was vice-president of marketing and operations at Think Tank Co-Work, a co-working venture in downtown Everett.

Powers grew up in a generational Filipino household that supported and empowered “one another and our neighbors,” Powers said. “We lived in a community where neighbors became family … building strong and productive relationships.”

“My siblings and I grew up to not only value, but commit to serving others with intention, which is where my compassion and unwavering dedication to helping others was fostered,” Powers said. “Relationships are everything, and I see value in every person.”

Powers is a member of the Promotions and Economic Vitality committees at the Downtown Everett Association and is also part of the Salty Sea Days task force.

At the Lake Stevens Boys & Girls Club, she’s coached third and fourth grade boys basketball.

She’s a volunteer or contributor to Cocoon House, Snohomish County K9 Foundation, Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce and Hope for Homies among other groups.

“My focus since becoming a mom has been building a strong support network for the youth which includes a positive and supporting community of mentors, role models, and a tribe that acts as an extended family,” Powers said. “I believe that a strong support system is essential for helping children develop their leadership skills and to reach their full potential.”

To further that aim, she strives to be an active community member and to support other families, organizations and communities that are focused on bringing up the next generation of leaders.

”A strong support system is essential for helping children develop their leadership skills and to reach their full potential,” Powers said.

As a partner at AVODAH, Powers aspires to be an “Encourager in Chief.”

She hopes to inspire minority women, mothers and community members to invest in their children and communities to create “a brighter future for everyone.”

Janice Podsada: 425-339-3097; jpodsada@heraldnet.com; Twitter: @JanicePods.