Prime Highlights
- Over 100 leaders gathered in Santa Monica to promote cross-city partnerships and collaboration ahead of global events like the 2028 Olympics.
- The event highlighted the role of women leaders in driving regional cooperation and addressing shared challenges across the Westside.
Key Facts
- Discussions focused on key issues such as public safety, homelessness and economic recovery, with an emphasis on joint solutions across city boundaries.
- Leaders pointed to improved safety and coordinated efforts as factors boosting business activity, particularly in areas like Venice.
Background
More than 100 civic and business leaders gathered at the Viceroy Santa Monica this week as Community Collective and Spin PR hosted the second annual Women in Leadership event, focusing on cross-city partnerships ahead of major global events, including the 2028 Olympic Games.
The event, sponsored by Venbrook Insurance, brought together leaders from Santa Monica, Venice and the wider Westside to discuss collaboration on shared challenges such as public safety, homelessness and economic recovery. Organisers said the goal was to build stronger coordination across city boundaries and support long-term regional growth.
Santa Monica Councilmember Lana Negrete, Los Angeles Councilmember Traci Park, and Veronica Pugin from the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation were recognized for their efforts in promoting cross-jurisdictional collaboration. Speakers highlighted that many of the region’s challenges extend beyond city limits and require joint solutions.
The discussions covered how coordinated leadership has already produced results across wildfire recovery, safety and congestion on key routes. Leaders said stronger partnerships have helped drive economic activity, with better public safety bringing in more business investment in areas like Venice.
Participants flagged homelessness and public safety as key issues for economic progress, saying businesses and residents need to feel safe for recovery efforts to work.
With Los Angeles gearing up to host the FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics, speakers said cities will need to work together to make the most of the opportunities and handle the challenges ahead. Santa Monica is expected to play a major role through cultural programming and business activities linked to the Games.
Organizers said the event also highlighted the role of women leaders in driving collaboration and building trust across sectors. Community Collective plans to keep this going through future events that build partnerships and support regional development.
