Southside Leadership Conference 2026

Lead with clarity. Connect with purpose. Prepare for what’s next.

The 2026 Southside Leadership Conference brings together business owners, executives, policymakers, nonprofit leaders, entrepreneurs, and emerging professionals for a high-impact half-day experience focused on the issues shaping South King County’s future.

This is not just another leadership event. It is a space for real conversations, practical insight, and meaningful connection.

As our region continues to grow, shift, and respond to new economic, workforce, and policy challenges, leaders need more than inspiration. They need timely information, strong relationships, and strategies they can take back to their organizations right away.

South King County Economic Outlook: What Leaders Should Expect in 2026

Understand the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping South King County’s business climate.

Confirmed Panelists

• Senator Tina Orwall, Washington State Senate

• Representative Mia Gregerson, Washington State House of Representatives

• Cathy Vue, Port of Seattle

• Crystal Leatherman, Director of Policy & Government Affairs, Washington Retail Association

Moderator

• Katherine Caffrey, City Manager, City of Des Moines

Regulation & Policy Shifts: Preparing Your Business for 2026

Hear what employers and community leaders should be paying attention to as legislative and regulatory decisions continue to impact the way we work and do business.

Confirmed Panelists

• Max Martin, Government Affairs Director, Association of Washington Business

• Councilmember Joe Vinson, City of SeaTac

• Andrea Reay, Director of Policy & Government Affairs, Washington Hospitality Association

Moderator

• Carmen Goers, Vice President & Small Business Banking Relationship Manager, Washington Trust Bank

Capital, Cash Flow & Resilience

Build confidence around cash flow, budgeting, capital access, and the financial decisions that support long-term organizational resilience.

Confirmed Panelists

• Shyan Selah, Founder, Brave New World Enterprises

• Harris Anwar, Branch Manager, BECU

Moderator

• Joe Sky-Tucker, President & CEO, Business Impact NW

Strategy in Motion: Leading Through Change

Learn how to lead through change, align your work to bigger goals, and move strategy into action even when priorities shift.

Confirmed Panelists

• Kirsten York, CEO, Multi-Service Center

• Lawrence Garrett, Founder & Owner, 828 Group

Moderator

• Shannon Braddock, President & CEO, Greater Seattle Partners

Fireside Chat: The Journey So Far — Resilience, Risk & Reinvention

Close the day with an honest and inspiring conversation about leadership, perseverance, growth, and staying grounded in purpose.

Featured Guest

• Girmay Zahilay, King County Executive

Moderator

• Mayor Thomas McLeod, City of Tukwila

Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with peers, mentors, business leaders, and community partners during networking breaks and the lunch resource fair.

Whether you are a seasoned executive, a small business owner, a nonprofit leader, a manager, or an emerging professional ready to grow, this conference is designed to help you sharpen your leadership, expand your network, and leave with practical tools to support your next step.

Why Attend?

You should attend if you want to:

• Gain timely insight into the economic and policy issues impacting our region

• Strengthen your leadership skills in a changing business environment

• Connect with regional decision-makers, employers, entrepreneurs, and emerging leaders

• Walk away with practical strategies for financial confidence, planning, and resilience

• Build relationships that support your professional growth and your organization’s success

• Be part of a signature regional gathering focused on leadership, innovation, and impact

Join us for a powerful afternoon of insight, connection, and momentum as we strengthen the leaders shaping the future of South King County.