GRDM| The Committee
Vice President, Rebecca Rosado
With more than a decade of cross-sector leadership, Rebecca Rosado blends visionary execution with grassroots connection. She is known for her transparent, values-driven models, which build real-world connections and foster radical inclusion across the globe.
Raised in the Northwest, Rebecca leads operations as director of strategic operations at Peace Works United with a clear mission: Peace Works when we are united. She is a community engagement and project management leader with a track record of turning ambitious ideas into durable, equity-centered systems.
Her current work with Climate Justice Alliance’s Black Caucus leadership team, Sister Cities International, and Social Justice Film Institute is inspired by her passion for community storytelling and preserving cultural lessons to foster peace and innovation across the diaspora.
Advisor Emeritus, Melannie Denise Cunningham
For 29 years, Melannie Denise Cunningham has been a visionary force in Tacoma’s South Africa Sister City relationship, helping guide its evolution from a single‑city partnership to the innovative district‑wide model now emerging with the Garden Route District Municipality. A celebrated community builder and internationally recognized peacemaker, she is known throughout the region as the “253 Peace Queen.”
In 2018, she was honored as the Greater Tacoma Peace Laureate, a journey that took her to the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in Oslo and later inspired the Northwest Regional Emmy Award-winning documentary Peace Queen. Melannie serves on the Sister Cities International Africa Region Committee and contributed her expertise as a program consultant for the 2024 SCI Africa Region Summit in Cape Town. Her leadership continues to expand Tacoma’s global footprint with creativity, cultural integrity, and courageous vision.
President, Tanajah Mims
Tanajah Mims is a Tacoma native who has dedicated her life to creativity, advocacy, and cultural progression and prosperity. With over 20 years in the philanthropy space, and over 10 years in the social services space, Tanajah merges her interest with her professional experience to consistently work toward systemic change. Tanajah currently works as a consultant for WA state.
With an array of talents, Tanajah has quietly spearheaded and assisted in several community initiatives, projects, and concepts that have had lingering impact and reflective eminence.
Looking to the future, Tanajah’s leadership focus is accountability, sustainability, and diasporic connectivity. As it is a historical task to initiate and innovate, it is the task of the working generation and its successors, the youth, to sustain the torch by running with the flames that set change ablaze. Tanajah believes the world will change with the empowerment of its future and not the placating of its traditionalist.
Events, Social Engagement & Outreach, Bernice Marlow
Bernice Marlow; A designer and event planner who uses creativity to bring joy and meaningful experiences to people. I’m passionate about all forms of design, from digital to interior design, and have years of experience designing and planning thoughtful events and spaces. I hold an Associate Degree in Business and a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design, and I’m the co-owner of Plushed by Ber Ber Design & Events & Owner of BFM Interior Design where I’m the principal designer.
I love learning about new cultures and traditions from around the world, which makes me excited to be part of the Sister Cities community. I look forward to contributing my skills, creativity, and experience to the group.
Secretary, Donlisa Scott
Donlisa Scott is a Tacoma native whose career and personal journey reflect a deep commitment to leadership, service, and meaningful connections. Donlisa has become known for her strategic mindset, exceptional communication skills, and ability to navigate complex challenges with clarity and poise. Donlisa is a lifelong connector with a talent for cultivating strong relationships and curating memorable experiences. She continues to embody her philosophy: lead with integrity, pursue joy without hesitation, and cultivate a life that honors both personal excellence and collective well-being.
Donlisa’ s personal interests reflect a well-rounded lifestyle characterized by wellness, culture, and exploration. She is a woman who values joy and experiences that bring people together. She loves live music—the kind that fills a room and lifts spirits. She thrives on the thrill of discovering hidden gems while thrifting. She travels, celebrates, and continues to explore the world with curiosity and intention. Her wellness routine—spinning classes and scenic walks along the waterfront—keeps her grounded, energized, and connected to the beauty of her hometown.