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Westin La Paloma Sunset Show Leadership Live
March 6, 2007
The Young Leaders Society proved once again that all that glitters is not just gold as they wrapped up their third event since inception in 2006 at the Westin La Paloma on March 6. 
Over 200 of Tucson’s brightest young leaders under the age of 40 packed a star studded room garlanded in gold, silver and black in honor of the more than 15 long standing community leaders who have given not only millions of dollars but their time to make a difference for those in need.
This “Lead” event gave emerging leaders, who do not often have a chance to meet influential philanthropists, the opportunity to mingle and learn from the best. It also showcased four established societal leaders during a Johnny Carson type talk show.
The inaugural event donned “The Sunset Show; Leadership Live” proved
that discussing the importance of giving back to the community and remembering your roots can be lively and entertaining. Carmen Bermudez, Founder and CEO of Mission Management and Trust Company, recalled her impoverished beginnings in a third world country as co-hosts Randy McDonald and Jason Ott of Citi Group pulled out a red cape and bull horns to reveal that Ms. Bermudez began her career as a professional bullfighter in South America. The crowd was stunned to realize that Ms. Bermudez literally fought a lot of bull to make it to where she is today.
Next on the stage was Jim Click whose name and voice alone need no introduction in the Tucson community. Mr. Click discussed starting out in an entry-level position in the auto retail business and how he ended up enjoying community service in spite of the fact that he never actually volunteered to serve but was mandated. He was excited that YLS gives emerging leaders choices and fun to fulfill those needs of the community. The crowd got a laugh when video was rolled showing Mr. Click’s bloopers and practical jokes during his many years of commercials.
Don Diamond, chairman of Diamond Ventures, Inc., took us through the journey of taking a “Diamond” out of the rough while the hosts thought it appropriate to follow strict safety regulations during building and development stages and put on bright yellow construction hats. These hats truly signify the hard work Mr. Diamond has endured to build his real estate empire and that giving back to the community is one of the best ways to remember those roots. Mr. Diamond also gave his insight into the up and coming market and mentioned things will heat up again in 2008.
Last but definitely not least Tucson’s Man of the Year, Humberto Lopez, president and co-founder of HSL Properties, Inc, took the stage and humbly discussed losing everything in his 40’s yet being able to start over because of the generosity of the Tucson community. Mr. Lopez never stopped giving even in those times of financial struggle because he understands giving is receiving.
The United Way Young Leaders Society has proven it is an organization of passionate young professionals who are actively seeking ways to Connect, Serve & Lead to make a positive and lasting impact throughout our community and The Sunset Show; Leadership Live is just one example. YLS held its’ first event in October of 2006 and has already welcomed over 100 members.
