CWLA

We are proud to be a Pathway Partner with the America First Policy Institute 🇺🇸 This gathering was thoughtfully designed to tackle the real challenges shaping our nation, from media narratives and local & congressional races to redistricting impacts and key Senate campaigns. We heard from impactful voices like Jennifer Hegseth, Dr. Alveda King, Linda McMahon, and more, gaining valuable insight on how to navigate and respond to the current climate with clarity, conviction, and purpose. It was an incredibly informative and energizing experience. Truly life-giving to be surrounded by so many committed voices working toward meaningful wins for America.

Women’s leadership is a movement, a legacy, and a future we’re building every day! This #InternationalWomensDay, we celebrate the rising number of women in the CA Legislature & U.S. Congress, breaking barriers, shaping policy & inspiring the next generation.

CWLA was honored to represent America First Policy Institute, California at the America First Prayer Breakfast! An incredible opportunity to connect with like-minded civic leaders, ground our work in faith, and continue building America First policies here in California. We’re grateful to hear from former Congressman Mike Garcia, Mayor Bill Wells, and Dr. Richard Rogers for their leadership, wisdom, and commitment to faith, family, and freedom. Special thanks to the America First Policy Institute, California and Executive Director June Cutter for hosting a meaningful and impactful gathering.

Congratulations to Patsy Freitag on stepping into her new role as President of the California Women’s Leadership Association and Chairwoman of the CWLA PAC. We look forward to her leadership as she continues to champion women’s civic engagement and public service. A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Parmis Khatibi for her years of dedicated service, vision, and commitment to empowering women across California. Your leadership has left a lasting impact.

Community turns missions into movements, and the resilience of women has long strengthened both their communities and our nation. Dr. Parmis Khatibi was honored to serve as President of the California Women’s Leadership Association and Chairwoman of the CWLA PAC, working alongside dedicated women to empower leaders and expand women’s voices in public service. She is deeply grateful to the CWLA community for its support and proud of initiatives like HerStory, Hold My Coffee, Civic Matters, and Women to Watch, which continue to educate and inspire. As she passes the baton, Dr. Khatibi proudly welcomes Patsy Freitag as the new President of CWLA. A strong advocate for school choice, economic freedom, and women’s civic engagement, Patsy is poised to lead CWLA into its next chapter. Congratulations President Freitag.

🎉✨ Happy New Year! As we step into 2026, we’re filled with gratitude for the achievements of the past year and excitement for the opportunities ahead. Together, we’ll continue to empower women leaders and strengthen our communities!

🎄✨ Merry Christmas! As we celebrate this joyous season, we’re reminded of the power of hope and love. May your Christmas be filled with peace, joy, and the warmth of family and friends. 💙

🕎✨ Happy Hanukkah! As we light the candles and celebrate the Festival of Lights, we reflect on the strength and resilience that unite us. Thank you to the women in our community who illuminate the way for others. May your Hanukkah be filled with light, love, and cherished moments with those who matter most.

This Giving Tuesday, join the California Women’s Leadership Association (CWLA) in championing the potential of women leaders to shape California’s future.   2025 marked a pivotal year for women in leadership, with more conservative female leaders elected across the state; proof that when women lead, everyone benefits. The momentum is undeniable, and we’re dedicated to creating even more opportunities for women to thrive in 2026 and beyond.   Amid this shift, conservative women are stepping into leadership roles and inspiring others to do the same. Across the state, women candidates are winning elections, advocating for change, and leading the charge for a brighter future. These victories underscore the importance of equipping women with the tools and confidence to lead effectively.   With your support, we can continue to inspire and equip the next generation of women leaders, ensuring their voices are heard and their impact is felt across California.   Every contribution helps us move closer to this vision. Together, let’s turn this momentum into meaningful change for women leaders and the communities they serve. Thank you for your generosity and belief in our mission. Link in the bio to donate!

This Thanksgiving, we reflect on the power of community and the incredible women who are making a difference every day. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to empowering women leaders!

Today, we honor the courage, dedication, and sacrifices of the brave men and women who have served our nation. Let us take a moment to reflect on the freedoms they’ve fought to protect and express our heartfelt gratitude to every veteran. Your service and commitment inspire us all. Thank you for your unwavering dedication.

Our next “Women to Watch” is Antonella Castro. She is a practicing lawyer specializing in real estate transactions, financing, construction, and general business transactions. Antonella graduated Cum Laude/Order of the Coif from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles. She has been named as a Southern California Super Lawyers’ Rising Star 2018-2020. She earned her undergraduate degrees in Crime, Law, and Society, and Psychology and Social Behavior at the University of California, Irvine, where she was a member of the NCAA Division I women’s tennis team and Delta Delta Delta Sorority. Antonella is a passionate volunteer and philanthropist. In Orange County, she is actively engaged with several local nonprofits and civic organizations. She is a member of the Board of Directors of Orange County United Way, member of its Executive Committee and Co-Chair of the Advocacy Committee. She previously served as the Leadership Chair for the United for Student Success initiative from 2020-2025. She is the current Chair of the Newport Beach Foundation, an organization whose mission is to ignite the next generation of Newport Beach civic, philanthropic and business leaders, Antonella is responsible for launching a scholarship for graduating high school seniors and runs the Distinguished Citizen Program which has graduated approximately 400 Newport Beach residents. A large number of these graduates go on to serve the City either on a board, committee, commission or foundation. Antonella, joined the Newport Beach Public Library Board of Trustees in 2023, and is serving her second term as Vice Chair. Additionally, Antonella is a member of National Charity League Juniors where she serves as Vice President of Philanthropy, and she recently joined the Friends of Oasis as an Advocate Board member. Watch interview with the link in bio!