Leadership Showcase & Networking

Step into a room full of innovators, leaders, and rising talent. Our upcoming networking event is crafted to spark meaningful conversations, expand your professional circle, and open doors to new collaborations. Whether you're hoping to share ideas, gain fresh perspectives, or simply meet great people in the industry, this is the place to be.​ And there’s even more to look forward to, we’re featuring a high‑impact panel session spotlighting our Emerging Leaders, facilitated by our Chapter President, Haley Kurnert. This dynamic conversation will bring fresh insights, energize the room, and inspire new connections across the industry.

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You can expect a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where introductions come naturally, and every conversation has the potential to lead somewhere exciting. Come ready to connect, learn, and build relationships that last long after the event ends.​

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Emerging Leader Bios

• Kelli Farmer – SCS Engineers

Kelli Farmer is a Senior Project Professional at SCS Engineers, specializing in sustainable materials management and environmental consulting. She supports zero‑waste and solid waste planning, edible food recovery, business waste reduction, and recycling technical assistance for municipalities, including SB 1383 compliance and program outreach. Kelli also serves as the Young Professional Liaison for SWANA’s Sustainable Materials Management Technical Division and is active on SCS Engineers’ Young Professional Planning Committee. Named SWANA’s 2024 Young Professional of the Year, she is committed to environmental stewardship, community impact, and advancing the future of the industry.​​

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• Jazmine Hadden – City of Beverly Hills​​

Jazmine Hadden, Graduated from Cal State Long Beach in 2017 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. Jazmine is a Sustainability Program Analyst for the City of Beverly Hills, where she oversees SB 1383 implementation, the City’s single-use plastics program, and broader sustainability initiatives. She truly loves her work in the waste and sustainability field and enjoys helping others see why it matters. From conducting edible food generator inspections to supporting waste reduction efforts, she focuses on turning policy into everyday practice. At home, sustainability doesn't take a break. Everyone in her family, including her two young boys, knows how to separate their waste and will be the first to point out when something goes in the wrong bin.

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• Luis Moctezuma – City of Palm Desert

Graduated from the Universidad del Valle de México in 2014 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations. He has worked in both the private and public sectors. Began working for the City of Palm Desert in 2019 and has held various positions since that time. Currently supports and leads environmental programs for the City of Palm Desert. He is the Young Professional Representative for the SWANA Southern California Founding Chapter.​

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• Stephen Herring – Republic Services 

Stephen graduated from Southeast Missouri State University in 2013 with a BS in Corporate Communications. He has been with Republic Services for 12 years and has held various roles and responsibilities and is currently the General Manager of their Long Beach division managing a team of 180 people. He is passionate about sustainability and fostering a supportive working environment. Additionally, Stephen is the Vice Chair of the So-Cal SWANA Chapter.​

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