Teamily: Being an integral part of the team, how do you feel about the construction project (1820 and 1828) in relation to the growth of the company?

Mahiri: It's been a long road to get where we are now… We have had so many iterations of employees come and go since the acquisition of the properties. Very few of us know the details of what it took to even get us to where we are.

The 1820 project has been in the works for about seven years… One of the biggest challenges was getting through the Architectural Review Board. It took years just to get a hearing… The process was also delayed due to various obstacles.

I know this is going to be a stellar year because we are slated to finish both buildings by the end of the year… As it relates to growth, having both these spaces combined, and with the number of team members that we now have here in LA, I think it’s a good thing.

In terms of where Kwanza sees it growing and going, I think what she has come up with is phenomenal. I'd like to see it used effectively and efficiently. I'd like to see it used more frequently by team members that are here in LA… I’m hoping that once it’s completed, people will be willing to come to the office.

Teamily: How would you connect the construction of the buildings with Kwanza’s mission to boost a billion lives?

Mahiri: It's more than just creating an office space; it's about empowering people… We hired small businesses for this massive project, creating opportunities for many who typically wouldn't have access to such a venture. We focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, researching companies that align with these values. Through this, we have built a network of vendors that we can recommend to others or hire for future projects… This project isn't about profit. Kwanza and José have dedicated their time and resources to build a space that powers possibilities and impacts lives far beyond their own.

Teamily: What impact do you think the new building will have on team members?

Mahiri: It gives us the space to truly tell the story and have a complete sense of pride about it (the building). It's going to have a phenomenal audio setup where you can tell that story, do the podcast, and do the recordings. It's going to have a phenomenal video setup like with the XR… But I feel like that won't be seen until it's seen. So, my job is to try to help you tell that story now to get people ready for it.

Teamily: What is a common misconception that people would have when they think about Kwanza leading a project like this?

Mahiri: People think, “You’ve got the means, you’ve got the money. Why can’t you just get it done? That's a misconception, especially in areas like Santa Monica, where regulations are strict and processes are lengthy. Building anything requires following specific steps, obtaining permits for even the smallest changes, and often waiting for approvals.

Also, Kwanza and José are not doing it just because they have the means. They don’t have to do any of this. They‘re doing it to leave a lasting legacy that benefits others long after they're gone.

Teamily: How do you think the designs in the new buildings will influence creativity and productivity among team members?

Mahiri: The spaces are beautifully designed to usher in more creativity within team members. Everybody would want to be there.

Teamily: Did Kwanza have special considerations for team members when designing the new building?

Mahiri: Kwanza envisioned spaces that are open and connected, where people can collaborate and work comfortably… She wanted spaces that encourage movement and interaction, where no one has their own office — not even herself. Kwanza was adamant about not having a space for herself… That’s why we have the conference rooms, open spaces, and workstations… There are also spaces like the laboratory with a shower for team members who arrive early to beat traffic.

She thought about all of these things and created different spaces to make team members feel different energies… The idea is to foster collaboration and ensure everyone feels a part of the bigger mission. It's not just about having a place to work; it's about having a place that works for us, fueling our passion and productivity.