EDITOR’S NOTE: South King Media Founder/Publisher Scott Schaefer serves on the Board of Directors for the Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce.
The Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce will be holding its Southside Leadership Conference on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Highline College, bringing together business leaders, entrepreneurs, public officials, nonprofit professionals, and emerging leaders from across South King County for a day of learning, connection, and inspiration.
This event will run from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
As economic conditions, workforce challenges, and public policy continue to evolve, leaders at every level are being called upon to think differently, adapt quickly, and lead with purpose. The Southside Leadership Conference is designed to equip attendees with practical tools, fresh perspectives, and meaningful connections to help them navigate today’s challenges and prepare for tomorrow’s opportunities.
“Leadership is no longer reserved for those with executive titles,” said Samantha Le, President and CEO of the Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce and Executive Director of the Success Foundation. “Every professional has the opportunity to lead from where they are. This conference is about helping people build the confidence, skills, and relationships they need to make an impact in their organizations and communities.”
This year’s conference theme focuses on the realities of leadership in a changing world, offering attendees direct access to industry experts, economists, policy leaders, financial professionals, and experienced executives.
Featured sessions include:
- South King County Economic Outlook: What Leaders Should Expect in the Year Ahead
- Regulation & Policy Shifts: Preparing Your Business in the Year Ahead
- Capital, Cash Flow & Resilience
- Strategy in Motion: Leading Through Change
- A Closing Fireside Chat: The Journey So Far – Resilience, Risk & Reinvention
In addition to expert-led discussions, attendees will have opportunities to network with peers, connect with resource providers, visit the Leadership Resource Fair, and celebrate outstanding professionals during the Business Leader Awards presentation.
Whether attendees are emerging professionals seeking career growth, managers developing leadership skills, business owners navigating uncertainty, or executives preparing for future challenges, the conference offers actionable insights and practical takeaways for every stage of the leadership journey.
Conference Highlights:
- Five expert-led leadership and business sessions
- Regional economic and policy insights
- Financial leadership and business resilience strategies
- Leadership Resource Fair
- Networking opportunities with professionals from across South King County
- Business Leader Awards Recognition
- Inspiring keynote and fireside conversations
Scholarship opportunities may be available to ensure accessibility for emerging leaders and community members.
Registration is now open. Space is limited and advance registration is encouraged.
Event Details:
- WHAT: 2026 Southside Leadership Conference
- WHEN: Friday, July 10, 2026, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- WHERE: Highline College, 2400 S. 240th Street, Des Moines, WA 98198 (map below)
- RSVP: To register, sponsor, or reserve exhibitor space, please:
Click Here
About the Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce
The Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce is a regional leader in business advocacy, workforce development, and economic growth. Serving the communities of Burien, Des Moines, Normandy Park, SeaTac, and Tukwila, the Chamber connects businesses, government, and community partners to foster a thriving, inclusive local economy. Through innovative programs like the Success Foundation and partnerships with regional stakeholders, the Chamber champions opportunities that elevate the voice and success of South King County’s diverse business community.
Learn more at www.seattlesouthsidechamber.com.
