04/05/2026
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Stefan Kampe
(President, Leadership MB)
Q: LEADERSHIP MANHATTAN BEACH BRINGS TOGETHER SOME OF THE CITY’S MOST ACTIVE CIVIC LEADERS. WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE SEPARATES TRUE LEADERSHIP FROM SIMPLY HOLDING A TITLE IN A COMMUNITY LIKE MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: True leadership goes far beyond a title. It begins with a clear vision – an understanding of what you want to achieve and the ability to communicate that vision in a way that inspires others. A true leader brings passion, conviction, and enthusiasm, and they listen, learn, and adjust as needed. Most importantly, they lead by example and motivate their team to pursue shared goals with purpose.
Q: IN A TOWN KNOWN FOR STRONG OPINIONS AND PASSIONATE RESIDENTS, HOW DO YOU TEACH EMERGING LEADERS TO LISTEN THOUGHTFULLY WHILE STILL HAVING THE COURAGE TO TAKE DECISIVE ACTION?
A: Leadership Manhattan Beach is a nine‑month program that meets every other week, and we intentionally balance learning with hands‑on experience. In the first half, participants explore how the city works, discover opportunities for civic involvement, learn about personality types, and discuss the fundamentals of leadership. In the second half, the class becomes a functioning project team – selecting, funding, and delivering a meaningful contribution to Manhattan Beach or the greater South Bay. With defined roles, deadlines, and peer leadership, participants learn to listen, collaborate, and ultimately make confident decisions.
Q: WHAT MOMENT DURING YOUR TIME WITH LEADERSHIP MANHATTAN BEACH MADE YOU REALIZE THE PROGRAM WAS TRULY SHAPING THE CITY’S FUTURE LEADERSHIP?
A: My first real understanding of LMB’s impact came when my wife, Rita Crabtree‑Kampe, joined the Class of 2022. Through her experience, I saw how many of our City Council members, commissioners, civic leaders, and city employees were LMB alumni. More recently, I spoke with a member of the Class of 2026 who had just retired and joined the program specifically to learn how he could give back. Moments like these make it clear that LMB is cultivating the next generation of community leaders.
Q: MANY LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS FOCUS ON THEORY. HOW DOES LEADERSHIP MANHATTAN BEACH ENSURE THAT PARTICIPANTS LEAVE NOT JUST INSPIRED, BUT ACTUALLY PREPARED TO SOLVE REAL COMMUNITY PROBLEMS?
A: Inspiration is essential, however, it’s only the starting point. Many Manhattan Beach residents don’t initially know how to get involved, so the first half of our program helps them understand the city and envision a future role for themselves. Hearing directly from current community leaders gives them real examples of what’s possible. The class project then provides practical experience working as part of a project team. Many alumni go on to serve on LMB’s Board, join civic or philanthropic organizations, lead youth sports, or pursue roles as commissioners or even City Council members. The program opens doors to countless pathways for civic engagement.
Q: LOOKING TEN YEARS AHEAD, WHAT KIND OF LEADERS DO YOU HOPE LEADERSHIP MANHATTAN BEACH WILL PRODUCE – AND HOW MIGHT THAT CHANGE THE FUTURE OF OUR COMMUNITY?
A: Manhattan Beach is special because of its sea, sun, surf, and – most importantly – its people. I hope LMB continues to develop leaders who are committed to preserving our small‑town feel, strengthening our sense of community, and embracing philanthropy. Over the next decade, we’ll face significant change driven by technology, including AI, as well as increasing pressure to densify coastal communities. My hope is that our future leaders will have the expertise, experience, and resolve to understand these challenges and make thoughtful, sometimes difficult decisions that protect and enhance what makes Manhattan Beach such an extraordinary place to live.
Leadership Manhattan Beach offers a comprehensive 9-month leadership program to educate and develop future community leaders.
