Lauren Garces

Lauren Balcita Garces is a city-wide event producer and artist currently based in San Diego, California focusing on diverse community empowerment and sustainable, inclusive economic development.

Currently, she directs the marketing, outreach, and events with the Asian Business Association San Diego representing over 30,000 Asian Pacific Islander owned businesses. Her work is bridged as the Special Events Director of the Convoy District, one of Southern California's largest pan-Asian economic hubs named the "Convoy Pan Asian Cultural and Business Innovation District" in 2020

A leader and advocate in the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, she serves as Vice President of the National Association of Asian American Professionals - San Diego and as the Co-Chair of the San Diego Asian Pacific Islander Coalition.

Her event production passion and engagements are dedicated to providing platforms and connections for diverse communities and cultures to be highlighted, bridged, and empowered. A few of the signature projects she has worked on include: Filipino Sun Festival, Kinda Kamayan, Linda Vista Multi-Cultural Fair, Asian Cultural Festival, San Diego Night Market, San Diego Ramen Festival, Asian Pacific Islander Festival Day at the San Diego County Fair, San Diego Padres Filipino Heritage Night, Seaworld Lunar New Year, Convoy Nights, and Balboa Park December Nights.

Recently, she was the Curator of Global Shapers in San Diego, an initiative of the World Economic Forum, leading highly accomplished young professional to launch community projects that promote education, equality, and civic participation.