CK Suero-Gabler

About

Cynthia “CK” Suero-Gabler is a dedicated community activist and community organizer, deeply committed to advancing civil and human rights, advocating for small businesses, and addressing senior issues. She is the CEO and owner of Suero-Gabler Enterprises, a small business focused on political strategy, strategic planning, grassroots community organizing, and organizational leadership. Currently serving as the Director of Public Policy for the National Association of Women Business Owners, NAWBO-CA and NAWBO-Inland Empire, she brings her fervor for advocacy, entrepreneurship, and women’s rights to the forefront of her work.

CK's journey in small business advocacy began during her tenure with the Honorable Jerome E. Horton, former Chair of the California State Board of Equalization. Her roles in both the district office in East Los Angeles and the headquarters in Sacramento equipped her with invaluable experience in assisting small business owners and conducting educational programs on tax matters throughout Southern California.

Her passion for community service and equity led her to serve as a City of San Diego Commissioner on the Citizen’s Equal Opportunity Commission, advocating for initiatives such as a disparity study, which was successfully launched in 2020. Additionally, her advocacy work on the City of San Diego Skyline/Paradise Hills Planning Group underscores her dedication to promoting equity in her community.

CK's impactful advocacy efforts have yielded tangible results. Notably, her leadership in securing $5.5M funding for a senior center at Bay Terrace Park, after a decades-long promise, stands as a testament to her commitment to her community. Recognized as one of the Top 100 Most Influential Pinays in the World by the Filipina Women’s Network and a Lifetime Member of BAPAC, the Black American Political Association of California, CK's tireless efforts continue to make a lasting impact.

In 2021, CK played an instrumental role as a member of the core leadership team that spearheaded grassroots advocacy efforts that successfully resulted in the City of National City moving from city-wide to district-wide voting, historically creating districts for the first time in National City. She spearheaded community engagement, rallies, and community advocacy during City Council meetings, as well as drafting district maps. This advocacy effort ultimately resulted in the first Filipina American elected to City Council in 2022.

In her professional role as a Senior Diversity and Economic Opportunity Representative for the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, CK provides vital leadership in empowering disadvantaged, minority, women, and disabled veteran small business owners. Through education, outreach, and bonding opportunities, she strives to foster inclusivity and economic empowerment.

CK's academic achievements include a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from National University and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership, where she graduated with distinction and was inducted into the Sigma Beta Delta Honor Society with a GPA of 3.96. She also completed prestigious leadership programs such as the LEAD San Diego Impact Program and the RISE San Diego Urban Leadership Fellowship Program.

With a steadfast commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, CK Suero-Gabler continues to be a driving force in advocating for positive change and empowering underrepresented communities.