The Santa Maria Valley Chamber (SMVC) has started the Santa Maria Valley Young Professionals (SMVYP), an initiative designed to empower the region’s next generation of talent.

The program’s first event will be 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26 at Trattoria Uliveto, 285 S. Broadway, Old Orcutt.

The SMVYP mission is to support the region’s emerging talent through a combination of networking, professional development, and community engagement, the chamber said.

Designed for individuals early in their careers, the group provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where young professionals can connect with peers and gain invaluable insight through direct interaction with established local mentors, according to the chamber.

By fostering these professional relationships, the chamber aims to build the next generation of civic and business leaders while supporting talent retention in the Santa Maria Valley, the chamber said.

“As a young professional myself, I am incredibly excited to help launch a program that provides a genuine sense of belonging and professional growth for our peers,” said Efrain Salazar-Colores, Economic Development & Business Engagement manager for SMVC.

“We wanted to create a space that isn’t just about networking, but about building a supportive community where those of us in the early stages of our careers can learn from mentors and each other,” Salazar-Colores said. “This program is a direct reflection of the passion and interest we’ve seen from young leaders across the valley.”

SMVYP plans to meet monthly, offering a variety of opportunities to connect with peers, hear from speakers, and participate in a mentorship program.

As the group grows, the chamber said it is committed to continuing to gather feedback and adapt the program’s activities to directly meet the needs and interests of its members.