National politics may get all the headlines and attention, but local and state politics can be where real community change happens. Creating Citizens, Commonwealth Club World Affairs’ education initiative, is thrilled to host California Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis and Hercules City Councilmember Alexander Walker-Griffin.

Lieutenant Governor Kounalakis is California’s first female lieutenant governor. She previously served as the United States ambassador to Hungary, and she has brought her experience in overseas diplomacy home to California. Her unique experience abroad has made her a unique candidate as she campaigns to be California’s next governor.

Councilmember Walker-Griffin became mayor of his hometown at age 24. His interest in public service started at a young age, and he is eager to encourage other young folks to get into politics early. The councilmember is passionate about local government and believes local government is the best place to make a change in your community.