How the Equity Summit Showed Us the Power of Collective Leadership

Angel City Football Club's 2024 Equity Summit, held in Paris on July 29 

In a world that’s been rapidly changing since the pandemic—marked by global conflicts, the rise of AI, and political turmoil—the future feels more uncertain than ever. Yet, we’re filled with optimism here at The Grand, because we know that moments of transition, like the one we’re living in, present us with a rare opportunity to drive real, lasting change.

Angel City Football Club's second annual Equity Summit—held last month during the 2024 Paris Olympics—was a testament to this belief. The day-long event brought together Olympians, business leaders, entertainers, and activists, all united by a shared commitment to advancing equity in sports, business, and beyond.

As ACFC’s leadership partners, The Grand was there to help cultivate openness, vulnerability, and a collective vision for the future. Our co-founders Anita and Rei were there in person to lead an ice-breaker, a Conversation Circle on DISC leadership styles, and a panel discussion on the next generation of leadership.

Some of our favorite moments from the day:

• When ACFC captain Ali Riley said she felt more comfortable going deep after our exercise.
• When Bianca Gates (Birdies' CEO) learned so much about herself and her leadership style during our Conversation Circle she wanted to stay for round two.
• Olympians Shawn Johnson and Missy Franklin discussing building a better future for their daughters.
• The powerful words from Malala Yousafzai, Khalida Popal, and women from the Afghan National football team about how sports offer a feeling of freedom.

The fact that The Grand’s frameworks resonated with attendees from 14 countries reinforced our belief that our work is more relevant now than ever.

We’re building a platform to grow and support the change-making leaders who will shape our future—our unwritten, uncertain future. Equity Summit underscored the power of community in turning that uncertainty into magic. When we come together with intention and purpose, the future isn't so daunting at all; it’s ours.

Learn more about how The Grand can assist in your change-making mission here!