In a pivotal advancement for Los Angeles’ District 8, Lela Christine Thompson, founder and executive director of the Lifestyle Elevation Media Foundation, Inc. (LEMF), has been elected to the Park Mesa Heights Community Council. Thompson’s election marks a new chapter of progress for the community as she brings her dedication to digital literacy, artificial intelligence education, and intergenerational engagement to the forefront of civic service.

“I am deeply honored to be elected to serve Park Mesa Heights,” Thompson said. “This opportunity aligns with my life’s mission—to uplift underserved communities through education, digital empowerment, and media innovation. The future is digital, and we must prepare our youth, our seniors, and everyone in between to thrive in this evolving landscape.”

With a career rooted in public relations, digital media, and social impact campaigns, Thompson brings both experience and vision. Her foundation, LEMF, was established in December 2021 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to bridge the digital divide and empower marginalized groups through access to technology and education.

Thompson’s focus as a new councilmember will include implementing digital programs that support residents across generations. She has accepted the responsibility of elevating Park Mesa Heights through media education, community journalism, and AI training initiatives that equip residents with critical 21st-century skills.

In alignment with her council appointment, Lela Christine Thompson is also advocating for digital AI tech funding to create a Tech News Hub along Crenshaw Boulevard—a space dedicated to educating and informing residents through AI-powered content creation, digital storytelling, and tech news updates. She is working in collaboration with various nonprofit organizations to build a united collective focused on digital access, education, and economic opportunity.

Lifestyle Elevation Media Foundation’s mission is to educate, elevate, and support individuals by providing:

• Digital Literacy Education: From foundational computer training to emerging AI concepts, the foundation offers an inclusive curriculum designed to build confidence and competence in technology use.

• Media and Technology Training: Participants engage in hands-on workshops covering social media management, content creation, digital storytelling, and brand marketing.

• Intergenerational Collaboration: Programs connect digitally fluent youth with seasoned seniors, fostering mutual respect and learning.

Among the organization’s most ambitious initiatives is the DigiLife Indie Youth Program, launching in February 2026. Designed for low-income youth aged 16 to 21 and seniors 65 and older, the yearlong initiative will provide instruction in mobile publishing, storytelling, and AI literacy. Another notable project, the Video AI & Creative Arts Workshops, will begin in Fall 2025 and offer training in AI-driven video editing and digital arts.

LEMF also runs Social Impact Media Labs, which were activated during the COVID-19 pandemic to support aspiring media professionals through grants, training, and access to production tools. These labs continue to foster a new generation of writers, videographers, and photojournalists with a focus on community storytelling.

Since its inception, LEMF has generated more than 500 million digital news impressions across its media brands. The foundation maintains partnerships with local schools, tech firms, and community centers to deliver free educational programming. It also curates digital events aimed at amplifying youth voices, supporting small businesses, and celebrating college-bound creatives.

Thompson emphasized the importance of understanding the global evolution of artificial intelligence, citing recent developments in countries like Saudi Arabia and the rising influence of AI in public policy and the global economy. “AI is here to stay. As we look at how governments and corporations around the world are investing in this technology, it’s critical that our local communities aren’t left behind,” she said.

As summer 2025 approaches, Thompson envisions a proactive role for Park Mesa Heights in preparing for a digitally enabled future. Her strategy involves collaborating with public policy experts, educational institutions, and political partners to ensure that residents have access to the resources and knowledge they need.

“Whether it’s a student learning coding for the first time or a senior gaining confidence with digital tools, our work is about inclusion,” Thompson said. “Digital literacy isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity in today’s world. Together, we can make Park Mesa Heights a beacon of innovation and opportunity.”

Lifestyle Elevation Media Foundation continues to be a transformative force in the community, advancing its vision for a digitally literate and creatively empowered Los Angeles.

For more information, visit https://parkmesaheights.org or connect via https://flow.page/lifestyleelevationmediafoundation.