Los Angeles Mayor, Karen Bass has emphasised the crucial role of the African diaspora in shaping the future of the city, highlighting opportunities for economic empowerment, education, and collaboration.

Speaking at a reception hosted by Nigerian-American entrepreneur and philanthropist, Monalisa Okojie, the mayor reiterated her commitment to strengthening ties between African and African American communities.

In a statement made available to the media, Mayor Bass commended Okojie for organising the gathering and acknowledged the importance of fostering dialogue on how the African diaspora can play a more substantial role in shaping the future of Los Angeles.

She expressed her commitment to ensuring increased collaboration, stating, “My office is open to assist members of the African community.”

Okojie, who leads Nehita Group of Companies, described the event as a unique opportunity to discuss economic empowerment, education, and strengthening partnerships between African and African American communities.

She emphasised that a key take away from the discussions was the creation of opportunities for the African diaspora to engage with the City of Los Angeles on contract and business initiatives.

“This gathering is a testament to the power of unity and collaboration. When we come together as a community, we can create lasting change that transcends borders and generations,” Okojie noted.

She further stressed that the event underscored the importance of partnership in fostering long-term progress.

According to her, as Black History Month continues to be celebrated, the gathering served as a reminder that honouring black history is not only about remembering the past but also about actively working toward a more inclusive and equitable future.

“By bringing together leaders from across the African diaspora, this event laid the foundation for deeper engagement between the community and Los Angeles city leadership.

With a shared vision for economic opportunity, education, and empowerment, Black leaders continue to shape history not just in February but every day of the year,” she added.

Okojie highlighted the work of her non-profit organisation, Expose, which was founded to advance educational initiatives in the United States, Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya.