Our Story
Executive Director Joeann Valle and Jebriel Rogong 2015, where the mentorship began.
The Los Angeles Gateway Chamber of Commerce, originally known as the Harbor City Harbor Gateway Chamber, was founded in the mid-1980s under the leadership of Joeann Valle, its dedicated executive director.
Over the next 50 years, the Chamber not only served as a pillar of support for Harbor City but also advocated for businesses and organizations throughout the entire South Bay region.
Sadly, in 2021, following the passing of Ms. Valle, the Chamber's activities came to an end, leaving the community without the leadership that had long been its heart and soul.
In 2023, Jebriel Rogong, a protégé of Ms. Valle, took it upon himself to continue her legacy of service and community dedication. Recognizing the need for revitalized leadership, Jebriel committed himself to understanding the dynamics of local industries, engaging in governmental affairs, and developing innovative networking strategies to foster business growth in the South Bay.
By 2024, after a year of consultations with former board members, community leaders, and city officials, Jebriel founded the South Bay Network. His goal: to carry forward the mission of the Los Angeles Gateway Chamber of Commerce by spearheading a new era of business development, advocacy, and community collaboration throughout the South Bay region.
Jebriel is a visionary leader with a strong strategic mindset, driving the future of South Bay businesses with innovative solutions, unwavering dedication, and a deep commitment to community growth.
Executive Director
Jebriel Y.R
Jebriel at the California State Capitol 2021
As Executive Director of South Bay Network (SBN), Jebriel is dedicated to advocating for the growth and success of small and medium-sized businesses in the South Bay. With years of experience in government, business development, and community service, Jebriel’s career has been rooted in connecting businesses with the resources and advocacy they need to thrive.
Jebriel began his career in 2015 as an Intern Field Representative for the State Assembly, 66th District, where he gained firsthand experience in government operations and public policy. He later joined the Los Angeles Gateway Chamber of Commerce as Executive Assistant to his mentor, Joeann Valle, where he contributed to key committees focused on small business support and community development. Joeann’s mentorship played a critical role in shaping his leadership skills and passion for advocating for local businesses.
While attending Sacramento State University, Jebriel took on the role of Capitol Representative for the State Assembly, 66th District, advocating for business policies at the state level. He further expanded his expertise as a Staff Services Analyst with the Department of Health Care Services, where he contributed to the development and analysis of state policies aimed at improving healthcare services for Californians.
After graduation, Jebriel worked as a Business Development Manager for his family’s homecare company and as a Social Worker in a rehabilitation facility. He most recently worked as Program Director at an Adult Day Health Center (ADHC) before focusing full-time on his passion for business development and community advocacy in the South Bay.
Jebriel’s diverse background in policy, business, and community services gives him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing local businesses. His dedication to creating lasting change and fostering collaboration makes him a strong leader for South Bay Network, committed to helping businesses succeed in a competitive environment.