Atziri Camarena

atziri.camarena@lacity.org
Director, Civic Leadership
Civic Leadership

Atziri Camarena serves as the Director of Civic Leadership at EmpowerLA, where she plays a pivotal role in strengthening the relationship between the 99 Neighborhood Councils and their communities. With over a decade of experience in civic engagement, Atziri has been dedicated to empowering neighborhoods since 2014. She designs and oversees comprehensive training programs that equip Neighborhood Council board members with the tools and knowledge they need to effectively engage with their communities.

In addition to her training efforts, Atziri leads EmpowerLA’s Women’s Leadership programs, fostering the growth and empowerment of women within the Neighborhood Council system. She also supports Civic U in partnership with the Pat Brown Institute, collaborating closely with a team of Neighborhood Empowerment Advocates to build the capacity of Neighborhood Councils throughout Los Angeles.

Atziri’s journey with the Neighborhood Council system began in 2014 as a Funding Representative. In 2016, she transitioned to the City Clerk’s office, where she helped develop the Funding Portal and Funding Policy Guidelines. By 2019, Atziri took on the role of Neighborhood Empowerment Advocate, before assuming her current position as Director of Civic Leadership.

Her career in public service began in 2004 at the age of 16 when she worked for the City of Los Angeles Recreation and Parks. Atziri spent years guiding youth in underserved communities, offering support through sports, community service, and enrichment programs.

Atziri holds a degree in Political Science from the University of California, San Diego. A proud mother of four, she enjoys spending time with her husband and children. In her free time, Atziri plays softball and creates balloon decorations for events. Her passion for community advocacy stems from the lessons instilled in her by her mother, a respected community leader.

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