Belem Lamas
Belem leads the policy advocacy and mobilization strategies as the Policy Director at LPPI. She has dedicated over 15 years of expertise serving diverse communities with the goal of improving the quality of life for constituents of all nationalities but with a special focus on marginalized communities.
A South Los Angeles native, Belem brings a nuanced understanding of the range of domestic policy issues impacting communities of color and a working knowledge of how policy change happens.
Belem honed her expertise in policy matters such as but not limited to public safety, housing, urban planning, and economic development as a Policy Director for the City of Los Angeles, Council District 8. In that role, she drafted legislation and provided strategies and policy recommendations to improve programs, contracts, and provide feedback on steps the city can take to ensure equity in disbursing the city’s $10 billion dollar budget.
Belem brings a wealth of expertise in mobilization, power building, and policy advocacy strategies. She has spearheaded the creation and implementation of several policies during the COVID-19 pandemic and unprecedented times for the City of Los Angeles. In addition, she served as the “Latinos Con Bass” Community Engagement and Field Work Manager for Mayor Karen Bass’ historic mayoral race. Belem has extensive experience working with grassroots organizations and building meaningful relationships to bring positive change for communities of color.
Belem earned a Bachelor of Arts in Chicana/o Studies and Political Science from the University of California, Los Angeles and a Master of Arts in International Public Policy from the University of Southern California with a certification in Nonprofit Management and Policy. In her spare time, she enjoys watching crime documentaries and reading books on spirituality, commitment and love for humanity.
