BizFed Advocacy Academy Builds the Next Generation of California Leaders

Advocacy, Leadership, and Civic Engagement Come Together in Los Angeles

Strong communities are built by informed leaders who understand how public policy, business, and community advocacy work together. That vision was on full display as the BizFed Institute celebrated the graduation of its Spring Advocacy Academy cohort alongside community leaders, business professionals, elected officials, and civic advocates from across Los Angeles County.

The culmination ceremony recognized graduates who successfully completed the academy’s intensive leadership program designed to prepare emerging leaders with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for their businesses, neighborhoods, and California’s economic future.

One of the event’s highlights was the keynote address delivered by Lola Smallwood-Cuevas, whose leadership continues to bridge the gap between government, workforce development, economic opportunity, and community partnerships throughout the region.

A Leadership Academy with Lasting Impact

Now in its third year, the BizFed Advocacy Academy has become an important educational resource for professionals seeking a deeper understanding of advocacy, legislative engagement, and public policy. Offered through a partnership between the BizFed Institute, the Culver City Chamber of Commerce, and the Century City Chamber of Commerce, the academy provides participants with practical tools to effectively engage elected officials, understand legislative processes, and advocate for positive change.

Throughout the program, participants gain firsthand insight into how business organizations, nonprofit leaders, and government agencies collaborate to strengthen California’s economy while improving opportunities for local communities.

The graduation ceremony served as both a celebration of achievement and a reminder that effective leadership begins with informed participation.

A Conversation Focused on California’s Future

Following her keynote address, Senator Smallwood-Cuevas joined an engaging panel discussion featuring representatives from the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), including Stephanie Garcia and Dustin McDonald.

The discussion centered on expanding access to state resources, strengthening small businesses, encouraging civic participation, and helping entrepreneurs better navigate opportunities available through California’s economic development programs.

Also participating in the culmination event was Dan O’Brien, whose ongoing support of regional business development reflects the collaborative spirit that defines the academy.

Together, the panel emphasized that advocacy is no longer optional for today’s business leaders—it is an essential leadership skill.

Recognizing Leadership that Inspires Others

The celebration also included a special presentation honoring Kevin Harbour, who received a Certificate of Recognition from Senator Smallwood-Cuevas for his outstanding leadership and years of dedicated service.

Under Harbour’s leadership, the BizFed Institute has continued expanding opportunities for business owners, nonprofit organizations, chambers of commerce, and civic leaders throughout Los Angeles County. His commitment to leadership development has helped create stronger partnerships between the public and private sectors while encouraging greater civic engagement across the region.

His recognition reflected the academy’s broader mission: investing in people who are committed to making meaningful differences in their communities.

Lela C. Thompson Endorses the BizFed Experience

Among the academy’s graduates is Lela C. Thompson, Founder and Executive Director of Lifestyle Elevation Media Foundation (LEMF), who completed the BizFed Advocacy Academy as part of the spring cohort.

Thompson describes the experience as one of the most valuable leadership programs available to business owners, nonprofit executives, publishers, and emerging community advocates.

“The BizFed Advocacy Academy provides an outstanding foundation for understanding public policy, advocacy, legislative engagement, and regional economic development,” Thompson said. “The program helps leaders understand not only how government works but also how businesses and nonprofit organizations can become active participants in shaping stronger communities.”

She encourages entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, media professionals, and community organizations throughout Southern California to consider participating in future cohorts, noting that advocacy education creates stronger partnerships and better-informed leadership.

Six Key Takeaways

  • Advocacy is a leadership skill that empowers professionals to influence positive community and business outcomes.
  • Public-private partnerships remain essential to strengthening California’s economy and supporting small businesses.
  • Education creates stronger advocates by helping leaders understand legislative and public policy processes.
  • Collaboration between business, government, and nonprofit organizations leads to more resilient communities.
  • Leadership development programs like the BizFed Advocacy Academy prepare emerging leaders for long-term civic engagement.
  • Graduates leave equipped with practical knowledge to advocate for their organizations, industries, neighborhoods, and the future of Los Angeles County.

Building Tomorrow’s Leaders Today

The BizFed Advocacy Academy continues to demonstrate that informed leadership creates lasting community impact. As graduates return to their organizations with new knowledge, expanded networks, and a stronger understanding of California’s public policy landscape, they become ambassadors for collaboration, innovation, and civic responsibility.

Programs like the BizFed Advocacy Academy are helping shape a new generation of leaders who understand that advocacy is not simply about influencing legislation—it is about building stronger businesses, stronger neighborhoods, and a stronger California for generations to come.

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