Celebrating Civic Leadership

by Maria S. Salinas

One of the gems at the Chamber is its focus on leadership development through the work of the Southern California Leadership Network (SCLN). Participants take a deep dive into the systems and trends shaping our region; explore solutions to some of our region's most pressing issues; hone their leadership skills; and build relationships with leaders from business, government and the nonprofit sectors. Participants are inspired to address complex issues facing the city and region, prepared to take on leadership roles within their organizations and communities and connected with a network of dynamic leaders to advance lasting, prosperous change.

Leadership fellows have been appointed to local commissions, founded their own youth leadership organizations, been promoted at work and are serving in a variety of leadership capacities throughout our region. The need for today's leaders to understand and adapt to our rapidly changing and interconnected world, and to be thoughtful, knowledgeable and civically engaged professionals, is essential.

As one graduate, Corneil Montgomery, Head of Corporate Social Impact at Bank of the West BNP Paribas, shared, "Each day has increased awareness of complex issue areas and access to an esteemed network of practitioners who are driving social change throughout Los Angeles County. The leadership development skills achieved were timely, and applied immediately as I navigated new roles ... I feel empowered to drive change management and global impact on the job, and accelerate my overall social impact agenda across multiple civic and community platforms."

SCLN is celebrating 32 years of outstanding leadership development in L.A. Join us in celebrating extraordinary leaders at the 2019 Visionaries Awards on Wednesday, Nov. 20. For more information or to attend this year's event, please contact Blanca Zarate.