The Los Angeles Consular Corps Spouses Association (LACCSA), chaired by Ms. Mame Toucouleur Mbaye, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Senegal, officially opened its 2026 calendar with its first Launch Lunch of the year, held this Thursday in the heart of Hollywood. The gathering brought together members of the consular community, diplomatic representatives, civil society leaders, and distinguished guests in a warm atmosphere of unity, dialogue, and collective commitment.
This inaugural luncheon provided a valuable space for participants to exchange New Year greetings while reinforcing the spirit of cooperation that defines LACCSA’s mission. The event blended institutional engagement with human connection, reflecting the association’s growing role in strengthening ties between diplomatic communities and local society in Los Angeles.
Beyond protocol, several speakers highlighted LACCSA’s ongoing initiatives, its commitment to intercultural dialogue, and its contribution to building bridges across communities through social impact projects and inclusive diplomacy.
A Platform for Dialogue and Engagement
Under the leadership of Ms. Mame Toucouleur Mbaye, LACCSA continues to position itself as a catalyst for cultural exchange, international solidarity, and community-driven action. Discussions emphasized the importance of women’s leadership in grassroots diplomacy, as well as the need for practical initiatives that serve people while fostering mutual understanding.
Participants praised the association’s collective energy and its modern vision of diplomacy—one that is human-centered, inclusive, and aligned with sustainable development goals.
Two Distinguished Guests Honored for Their Commitment
A highlight of the gathering was the recognition of two outstanding participants for their remarkable dedication to LACCSA’s activities.
Honored were Ms. Jackie Deschamps, Co-Founder of the International Film & Inclusion Festival USA–Africa–France, celebrated for her ongoing commitment to culture, inclusion, and cross-continental collaboration; and Ms Marisela Carabello DiRuggiero, Director of Trade Development at the Port of Los Angeles, who, while recognized for her leadership also received recognition for the works and generous talents of her late husband.
These distinctions reflect LACCSA’s desire to spotlight excellence and celebrate individuals whose work helps build lasting bridges between institutions, territories, and continents.
Where Diplomacy Meets Culture, Economy, and Inclusion
Through this event, LACCSA reaffirmed its role as a key player in citizen diplomacy in Los Angeles. By bringing together culture, social engagement, and economic cooperation, the association contributes to reshaping diplomatic practice around human connection and shared progress.
For Afroscopie, this gathering reflects a broader movement: an African and international diaspora increasingly organized, proactive, and committed to building meaningful partnerships with global impact.
As 2026 begins, LACCSA sets a promising tone—anchored in dialogue, solidarity, and the celebration of talents working together for a more inclusive future.
By Giscard Ndjogou
Afroscopie News – Society Desk
