Sharlena Luyen

Hi, there!

Beyond technical skills, I am deeply committed to fostering a positive and inclusive team culture grounded in humility, empathy, and collaboration. I firmly believe that strong teams are built on trust and autonomy, and I strive to cultivate an environment where every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute their best work. My philosophy for top tier teamwork and collaboration prioritize the following: clear/direct communication while assuming best intentions shared responsibility/accountability being curious to learn by asking lots of questions
Beyond software engineering, I invest my time in volunteering, photography, baking, and scuba diving/snorkeling. I also served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for over 7 years, to advocate for foster youth within the court system. To the right, you'll see me feeding my friend's kangaroo in Australia!

Me and my friend pictured with Caesar the No Drama Llama at a fundraising event I helped organize for CASA in Benton County

Philanthropy

For over 7 years, I served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate in Benton and Multnomah Counties. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) are specially trained community volunteers appointed by Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court Judges to speak in the best interest of children who are brought before the court for reasons of abuse or neglect. We are an official part of the judicial proceedings, working alongside attorneys, social workers and other professionals.

Wanting more from the judicial system, I also served as a board member on the Citizen's Review Board (CRB) in Multnomah County for 2 years to bring transparency and public oversight to foster care cases. Specifically, attorneys, social workers, and other judicial members were expected to justify decisions made throughout the case. The board would submit their recommendations on future proceedings for judges to review. We were able to shape public policy affecting Oregon’s most vulnerable children and families.

Snorkeling with Baby Humpback Whale in Tahiti

During my work hiatus from 2023-2024, I traveled to Tahiti to snorkel with wild humpback whales. There are a lot of rules put in place to protect these guys; we are with guides the entire time, unable to approach, staying at least 100 meters away, wearing biodegradable sunscreen, etc. However, as you can see, they are incredibly playful and are curious about us. This baby humpback whale jumped no more than 10 feet in front of me while its mama was deeper down below. I've had the privilege to snorkel with humpback whales, whale sharks, turtles, sting/manta rays, manatees, and so many more in the wild!

Hiking Timelapse of Machu Picchu Mountain

After an intense 4 day hike in Peru, I was able to enjoy the world wonder that is Machu Picchu. Hiking throughout the Andes allowed me to appreciate the peace and quiet that comes from the endless valleys and winds whispering in your ears.

Portrait Photography

For over 10 years, I have loved taking portraits for friends and family. Photos of families are one of my favorite groups to capture, whether that be semi-posed in a park or candid photos at a birthday party or event. I would be honored to capture your valuable memories.
Scroll to see more of my portfolio.