Rising Star Award – Lauren Garces

Hailing from the island of Oahu, Lauren Garces finds her zen in organizing shelves and in the chaos of directing events. She has had humble beginnings and tremendous growth in San Diego through event production and community empowerment and is currently the Vice President/ Creative Director of Silk Road Productions – one of the leading, award-winning event production companies in Southern California.

Her event production passion and engagements are dedicated to providing platforms and connections for diverse communities and cultures to be highlighted, bridged, and empowered.

Her education and engagement previously include: Valedictorian of Kapolei High School, Graduate and Director of Andres Bonifacio Samahan Community Outreach and Political Education (ABSCOPE), Chairperson of Andres Bonifacio Samahan, Marketing Director of the Youth Mentorship Program, and a B.S. in Business Administration Marketing from San Diego State University.

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 Festival Day at the San Diego County Fair, San Diego Padres Filipino Heritage Night, SeaWorld Lunar New Year, and Convoy Nights.

Recently, she has also become the President of the National Association of Asian American Professionals with a mission to connect and provide leadership development opportunities to the San Diego professional community.

When she’s not collaborating to plan the next big event (which she’s always open to conversation), you can find her adventuring to new places to absorb the cultures, arts, and devour lots of food!