Bega Valley in Conversation… with Santa Monica
Story by Eva Schlunke
The conversation began in early 2025 between Kate Sollis and Catalina Langen via Zoom.
Kate was interested in Catalina’s work with Santa Monica-based startup project, Civic Wellbeing Partners who use data to develop and promote innovation in civic responses to well-being, both locally and worldwide. Kate reached out across the cyberwaves and made introductions – to find out more about Catalina’s work in Santa Monica California, and to compare notes on the work that’s going on here in the Bega Valley.
The conversation continued weeks later with Kate, Catalina and two other members of BVDC (April and Eva). Catalina spoke insightfully about her experience working first for the Office of Civic Wellbeing of the City of Santa Monica and then later for the not-for-profit start up Civic Wellbeing Partners.
Their organisation has led a range of exciting initiatives, including the development of a wellbeing index, community consultation on wellbeing metrics, and evaluation of local programs. Importantly, Catalina shared the importance of taking data back to the community to co-design and implement solutions. Doing so can be empowering for residents, and ensures that these solutions are developed through the expertise of those with lived experience. Catalina also emphasised how important individual experiences are. Every person’s story and experience matters. Collect it!
It so happens that BVDC connected with Catalina just as the ashes of Californian wildfires settled over Santa Monica. She plans to connect other Santa Monica leaders and community members with BVDC so we can share our expertise on bushfire recovery. The thirst for knowledge and solidarity is strong. The peer-support is there and it strengthens us.
Listening to Catalina was like looking into the future to see what evidence-based community action looks like when the data begins to flow.
The conversation continues…
Photo: Catalina Langen (centre) with her colleagues from the Civic Wellbeing Partners