Mayor Aja Brown

Aja Brown is a public servant, urban planning expert, and civic strategist recognized for being the youngest mayor elected in the City of Compton, California. Brown holds a bachelor's degree in public policy, urban planning, and development from the University of Southern California, as well as a master's degree in urban planning with a concentration in economic development from the USC Price School of Public Policy. Prior to her political career, Brown worked as an urban planner for the City of Inglewood, served as a Planning Commissioner for the City of Pasadena, and joined Compton's Redevelopment Agency as a Redevelopment Project Manager. She also co-founded Urban Vision Community Development Corporation, a nonprofit organization in Compton focused on community economic and youth development.

Brown entered politics as a newcomer, defeating 12 candidates, including a former mayor and the incumbent, to become Compton's youngest mayor at age 31 and the eighth consecutive African American elected to the position. Drawing on her background in urban planning, economic development, and community engagement, Brown implemented the "12-Point Vision for Compton" revitalization strategy, which introduced evidence-based initiatives and attracted significant private sector reinvestment. This approach resulted in more than $3 billion in new investment, a reduction in unemployment, and sustainable community benefits policies. Brown was reelected to a second four-year term as mayor, receiving 60.1% of the vote.

During her tenure, Brown addressed public safety by engaging Compton Bloods and Crips gang leaders through former members to negotiate peace, emphasizing conflict mitigation over heavy policing. This initiative contributed to a reduction in violent activity and crime by approximately 65 percent compared to historic highs. Brown also established Compton Empowered, an organization addressing gang issues by providing employment opportunities and supporting former gang members in community restoration. She secured federal support for Compton through the U.S. Department of Justice's Violence Reduction Network and implemented a Local Hiring Ordinance requiring a 35% local hiring preference for city-assisted development projects. Brown also participated in a coalition of mayors committed to guaranteed income, launching "The Compton Pledge," the largest city-based guaranteed income program in the country.

Brown's work has been recognized with honors such as the John F. Kennedy New Frontier Award, the University of Southern California Young Alumni Merit Award, and the National Action Network Martin Luther King Award. She has been featured in Elle, ESSENCE, TIME, Vogue, and Fast Company. Brown has participated in initiatives such as Policy Link and ESSENCE's All-In Cities Initiative, which convenes Black women mayors to collaborate on community development.

Following her mayoral service, Brown transitioned to the private sector as Strategic Impact Partner at FORWARD, a company that supports governments and nonprofits in delivering resources and funding to communities through technology-driven solutions. With experience spanning government administration, public policy, and GovTech, Brown is recognized as a leading expert in the field. She has authored op-eds in outlets such as Newsweek, discussing initiatives like the Dena Care Collective, a platform designed to provide direct cash assistance and relief to wildfire survivors in Altadena. As a keynote speaker, Brown addresses audiences across sectors on topics related to equity-driven, community-centered leadership.