ABOUT | RISEWITHUS

About RISEWITHUS

Founded in 2018, RISEWITHUS exists to transform organizations from the inside out by equipping them with the tools, strategies, and mindset needed to advance equity, justice, and inclusion in sustainable and meaningful ways.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every organization has its own culture, challenges, and opportunities, which is why we take a tailored, strategic, and action-oriented approach to equity work. Through conflict resolution, leadership development, and organizational transformation, we help teams move beyond surface-level DEI efforts toward real, lasting change.

At the core of our work is a commitment to:

Transformation through introspection and self-examination – We believe sustainable change starts from within.
Aligning values with action – Organizations must practice what they preach, ensuring their commitments are reflected in everyday decisions.
Prioritizing personal growth and development – We challenge individuals and teams to engage in continuous learning and self-awareness.
Fostering equitable decision-making – True inclusion requires power-sharing and accountability in leadership.
Recognizing how individual beliefs and biases shape experiences – We create space to explore how personal perspectives influence workplace culture and decision-making.

Are you ready to align your values with action and build a culture of accountability, belonging, and shared power? Let’s do the work—together.

KARINE JOY WILLIAMS (KJ)

Co-Founder/CEO

KJ Williams is a visionary leader, facilitator, and strategist dedicated to transforming organizations and communities through equity-centered leadership, conflict resolution, and restorative practices. As the Founder and CEO of RISEWITHUS, KJ partners with organizations, institutions, and individuals to navigate complex challenges, rebuild trust, and create sustainable change that advances racial and social justice. With a deep commitment to fostering belonging, accountability, and collective growth, KJ’s work empowers teams to move beyond performative DEI efforts toward meaningful transformation.

With a BA in Urban Studies from the University of Washington and an MPA from Seattle University, KJ has spent decades advancing initiatives that challenge systemic inequities and cultivate inclusive leadership. Her experience spans nonprofit, government, education, and corporate sectors, where she facilitates courageous conversations, leadership development, and culture shifts that center humility, adaptability, and shared power.

KJ’s commitment to justice extends beyond professional consulting. They have served on the City of Seattle LGBT Commission, the University of Washington School of Law Diversity Committee, the Board of Directors for the Initiative for Diversity, and the Gates Scholarship Committee at UW School of Law. Currently, KJ is deepening their expertise in conflict resolution and mediation through the Certified Mediator Practicum with the Center for Dialog and Resolution, equipping leaders with the tools to engage conflict as a pathway to healing and progress.

At the heart of KJ’s work is a belief that transformation starts from within—within individuals, within teams, and within the systems we seek to change. Through RISEWITHUS, KJ continues to challenge organizations to align values with action, address power dynamics with integrity, and create cultures where everyone thrives.

ANTASIA J. WILLIAMS (AJ)

Co-Founder/Managing Director

AJ Williams is a dynamic leader, strategist, and facilitator dedicated to fostering equity, transformation, and sustainable change within organizations and communities. As the Co-Founder of RISEWITHUS, AJ brings a wealth of experience in youth development, social impact, conflict resolution, and organizational leadership, helping teams navigate challenges and build inclusive cultures grounded in accountability, belonging, and adaptability.

With a BA in Political Science from Western Washington University and a deep-rooted passion for justice, AJ has spent years in the nonprofit sector, serving as a front-line worker, program coordinator, director, and deputy director. Their leadership has shaped programs that empower young people, strengthen communities, and challenge inequitable systems.

AJ is also a Certified Mediator through the Center for Dialog and Resolution, equipping organizations with the tools to address conflict with integrity, restore relationships, and move toward lasting change. As a consultant, AJ specializes in equity-centered leadership, strategic conflict management, and organizational transformation, guiding teams through the difficult but necessary work of turning challenges into opportunities for growth.

Beyond their work with RISEWITHUS, AJ is a dedicated advocate for self-development and personal transformation. Whether through facilitation, coaching, or thought leadership, they empower individuals to unlock their potential, embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth, and create meaningful change in their lives and communities. AJ also prioritizes wellness, movement, and creativity, finding balance through fitness, outdoor exploration, and visual design, all of which fuel their approach to leadership and innovation.

At the heart of AJ’s work is a commitment to actionable change, strategic solutions, and courageous conversations—ensuring that organizations and individuals don’t just talk about transformation but truly live it.

Organizational Partners