A Purpose-Driven Beginning
In communities across San Diego County, Josie Flores-Clark is known for one powerful thing: her ability to connect people to opportunity—and to help them believe in what’s possible.
As President of the National Latina Business Women Association–San Diego and the San Diego County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Flores-Clark serves in a volunteer capacity, dedicating her time to empowering entrepreneurs, families, and underserved communities. Through mentorship, education, and strategic partnerships, her work is rooted in one mission—expanding access.
Turning Vision Into Action
“My struggles and my parents’ struggles should not become someone else’s burden,” she shares.
That belief is not just a statement—it’s a lived experience.
Born in Calexico, California, Flores-Clark spent her early years working in the fields as her family followed agricultural seasons throughout Northern California. Those years were marked by hardship, instability, and even periods of homelessness. But instead of defining her limits, those experiences shaped her purpose.
Over the past 25 years, she has transformed that purpose into action.
A Leader Rooted in Community
From her time serving as Executive Assistant in the Mayor’s Office for the City of National City to leading two major organizations, Flores-Clark has consistently focused on one thing: building pathways for others. Her work spans business development programs, community events, and initiatives that provide critical resources to those who need them most.
One of her most impactful efforts includes launching a financial literacy program in partnership with the Mexican Consulate—an initiative that has helped families gain the tools needed to build long-term stability and generational wealth.
But her impact goes far beyond programs.
Creating Opportunities That Matter
Flores-Clark has supported individuals during some of the most difficult moments of their lives—connecting them to resources when they felt they had no way forward. Today, many of those individuals are thriving, a testament to the power of timely support and human connection.
“I don’t just connect people to opportunities,” she explains. “I help them see what is possible for themselves.”
A Lasting Impact
Her work also extends into advocacy for small and minority-owned businesses. By collaborating with cities across San Diego County, she continues to push for greater access to contracts and opportunities that can transform businesses and local economies.
What sets Flores-Clark apart is her leadership style—one grounded in empathy, authenticity, and service.
She doesn’t just lead from experience—she leads from understanding.
Her core values—integrity, community, resilience, and paying it forward—are woven into every initiative she touches. Whether she’s guiding an entrepreneur, supporting a family, or opening doors for the next generation, her approach remains the same: people first.
At the heart of it all is a simple but powerful belief:
“When one of us rises, we all rise.”
Through her continued leadership, Flores-Clark is not only changing individual lives—she’s creating a ripple effect that strengthens families, businesses, and entire communities across the region.
And for those still searching for direction, her message is clear: support exists, opportunity is within reach, and your starting point does not define your future.
This recognition is part of the March 2026 San Diego Weekly Standouts Series honoring leaders shaping San Diego, California, the Cali-Baja region, and communities connected to the region around the world.
San Diego Weekly Standouts | March 2026 Honoree
About the San Diego Standouts Series
The San Diego Standouts Series from San Diego Weekly highlights individuals whose leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, and service are helping shape the future of San Diego, California, the Cali-Baja region, and communities connected to the region around the world.
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Profiles featured in the San Diego Standouts Series are selected by the San Diego Weekly editorial team to highlight individuals whose leadership and service are helping shape San Diego and the Cali-Baja region. The Editor’s Choice is for individuals whose impact on San Diego and the broader region is undeniable: the founders redefining industries, the advocates transforming communities, and the visionaries building what comes next. Past and current considerations include civic leaders, nonprofit founders, tech entrepreneurs, educators, creatives, and cultural icons across the San Diego and Cali-Baja region. These editorial recognitions are independent features and honors, there is no fee required to be selected.
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