Global Perspectives and Local Impact: My First ICMA Annual Conference
Author: Femi Omotesho, Cal-ICMA Scholarship Awardee for the ICMA Annual Conference 2025 in Tampa/Hillsborough Florida. Femi Omotesho is a Management Analyst in the City of Elk Grove.
I am energized and highly inspired by the incredible experience at the 2025 ICMA Annual Conference in Tampa, Florida, held from October 25th to 30th! As a first-time attendee, I was honored and deeply grateful to be a recipient of the Cal-ICMA scholarship. This opportunity was truly transformative, connecting me with hundreds of municipal administrators and thought leaders from across the US and the world.
Connecting Across Continents:
The sheer scale of the conference and the diversity of the attendees was one of the most memorable aspects. Meeting peers facing similar challenges and celebrating shared successes was invaluable. I was particularly thrilled to see a representative from Eswatini, making an essential connection to my own municipal roots in Africa. It was a powerful reminder that while our cities may be separated by oceans, the core commitment to public service unites us.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Civic Leaders:
My work in Elk Grove centers on Youth Empowerment, and the sessions focused on this topic were the most appreciated. Hearing about other cities' innovative approaches to inspiring youth for civic engagement provided a wealth of knowledge. The conference was a powerhouse of ideas, strengthening my belief in the importance of mentorship and creating pathways for the next generation of local government leaders.
Another highly impactful session explored Global Perspectives on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), featuring insights from Australia, Eswatini, and the UK experience. This discussion provided tangible approaches to initiatives that build a positive organizational culture; one that consciously invests in people and enables them to maximize their potential. This perspective on creating inclusive and supportive environments is a lesson I’ll carry back to my work every single day.
I am returning to Elk Grove with a host of practical tools and a renewed passion for the profession. The lessons learned here will undoubtedly help me and my City grow stronger.
To Cal-ICMA, thank you for believing in the value of new voices and for making this experience possible. I am so touched by your support that I have decided to volunteer my time to assist Cal-ICMA going forward. I want to help ensure that other emerging professionals can benefit from such an enriching and career-shaping opportunity, just as I have.