Introducing Pagona, AF-California’s Acting Hub Director!

What do you enjoy about your career path so far, and why?

My career journey so far has allowed me to apply myself in many ways that have kept me challenged and growing while still working to advance freedom. I started my career at The Pacific Legal Foundation, then became passionate about how, as freedom advocates, we communicate our values to the world around us, particularly those audiences who have yet to explore our ideas. That inspired me to follow a path into marketing, communications, and organizational leadership.  Recently, I have started my own business, Elefthero, a nonprofit consulting firm that lets me add value to high-impact organizations while also taking on personal projects that advance our ideas in unconventional ways. That entrepreneurial freedom has led me to this exciting venture with America’s Future as their California HUB Director. 

Why did you decide to work with America’s Future?

Taking action and not giving up on California are two things I’m very passionate about. America’s Future is dedicated to creating a space not only for people to connect but for them to be inspired into taking action to improve their communities. AF’s commitment to creating an opportunity for liberty-minded people to connect here is a rare and special gift. I’m happy and honored to do all I can to help AF succeed in that mission, and I’m excited for the many young professionals in California to be supported as they work to build a brighter future in our state.

What are you most excited about in the role?

Californians share a unique culture – and I’m excited that AF allows HUB leaders like me to facilitate events and outreach that will resonate with who we are and our diverse regional communities. I’m most excited to meet the many people I’m sure will come out of the woodwork because AF is investing in bringing them together.

What helpful skills do you have that people could ask you for advice on?

I would be happy to help anyone within the AF community on how to build thoughtful, sincere relationships to grow their network, how to start their own nonprofit ventures, and how to think about developing a vision-first strategy to reach their goals – professional and personal. 

Book recommendations?

The Originals by Adam Grant for inspiration; Think Like a Rocket Scientist by Ozan Varol for tactical ways to go after that inspiration; and Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville so you can step back, take a breath, and understand that our society always had and always will have challenges – we just need to keep doing what we can and not let the tasks ahead scare us off from the hard work. 

Coffee order?

Black, please.

Favorite places to travel?

I travel to Greece regularly to visit family and friends, and it is one of the most joyful, warm, welcoming places on earth. If anyone is interested in visiting Greece, I have a long list of tips and recommendations I’d be happy to share. Feel free to reach out anytime.