President's Message

President’s Message

Future Focused, Preparing for the Recovery Ahead

For countless businesses, 2020 felt like the marathon that would never end and many obstacles facing our business community during this pandemic era remain as we move into 2021.

However, this year we can see the light at the end of the tunnel as vaccine distribution increases across the state and our region.

As we welcome this New Year, there were also significant milestones during 2020 amid the pandemic including: a historic investment that will expand our local bio-tech industry, approval of the North Business Park Specific Plan, and the completion of the first mixed-use housing project on Thousand Oaks Blvd.

In this issue, we will explore how the City of Thousand Oaks has positioned itself for biotech expansion, take a closer look at how the North Business Park Specific Plan will allow for local control of future developments in Westlake Village and meet the newest councilmember for the City of Thousand Oaks, Kevin McNamee.

Read about our 2020 40 Under Forty honorees who served as critical leaders from our frontline healthcare workers, educators shifting to virtual learning, nonprofits filling the gaps for thousands to our small business owners adapting in a year dominated by state and county mandates.

In our business profiles; NINJIO provides cybersecurity education solutions for employees, Clarity Co. Consulting helps businesses comply with the complex regulations surrounding COVID-19 and Aspire Dance Studio found a way to keep feeding the mind, body and soul through the art of dance.

Our nonprofit feature highlights the work of Harbor House that serves individuals experiencing homelessness right here in the Conejo Valley with a goal of helping people find hope, gainful employment, affordable housing and a sense of personal wellbeing.

On behalf of Chair Natalie Yanez, our Board of Directors and Chamber Team, we thank you for reading, and know that your Chamber is here to support you and your business in the year ahead.

Danielle Borja

President/CEO Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce dborja@conejochamber.org

6 | ConejoView SPRING 2021