Lisa Bhathal Merage
Co-Founder, Chief Impact Officer & Managing Partner
Revitate
Lisa Bhathal Merage joined the family business, RAJ Swim, in 2006 after graduating from USC and three years later launched LUXE by Lisa Vogel, a line of chic, upscale swimwear sold at luxury retailers such as Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue, which earned her the national title of “Designer of the Year” at the 2012 Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim. She then launched RAJ Capital, the alternative asset division of the Bhathal Family Office. It included an opportunity zone investment platform, RevOZ, which has invested more than $1.3 billion in opportunities that have been designated for economic growth. This enterprise led to Revitate, a scalable, diversified investment management platform that partners with visionary business-builders with the talent and drive to achieve transformational economic and social impact. Two primary real estate initiatives include Revitate Cherry Tree, with a focus on preserving attainably priced housing opportunities for working Americans in the Midwest; and Revitate Impact, a social impact platform centering on Opportunity Zone investments with a commitment to integrate positive impact into development projects in the form of new jobs, housing, economic activity, environmental and community benefits.
Along with her family, Merage is co-owner of Sacramento Basketball Holdings LLC. The firm owns the Sacramento Kings franchise of the NBA, Golden 1 Center, the Sawyer Hotel and residences, and is the developer of the Downtown Commons entertainment and sports district in Sacramento.
With a philanthropic passion for both the arts and education, Merage is on the board of the Orange County Museum of Art as well as involved with Segerstrom Center as an Angel of the Arts. She has served as a trustee for both Sage Hill School and St. Mary’s IB World School. Merage was also chair of the board of Gen Next, a nonprofit aimed at education reform, economic growth and national security. Today, she is a champion for social impact through property investment. As Merage puts it, “Impact… starts with a belief that building a well-run business that solves meaningful problems and consistently delivers value to employees and investors is, in itself, a form of positive social impact.”
ENTREPRENEUR / FOUNDER FINALISTS
Patty Arvielo
CEO & Co-Founder
New American Funding
Patty Arvielo, co-CEO of New American Funding, has over 40 years of mortgage industry experience. She co-founded the nation’s largest Latina-owned mortgage company, leading over 200 locations and nearly 3,800 employees. Arvielo’s leadership propelled NAF to become the largest woman- and Hispanic-owned mortgage firm in the U.S. Under her guidance, NAF prioritizes diversity, equity and inclusion, earning accolades like the Residential Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leadership Award. Beyond NAF, Arvielo serves on various boards and invests in uplifting the Hispanic community. Recently, Vanguard University named its School of Business after her, recognizing her historic achievements. Her commitment to homeownership and education extends to her advocacy, mentorship and recognition on the Forbes 50 Over 50 list.
Samantha E. Dorey
Co-Founder & Partner
Everett Dorey
Samantha Dorey, a founding partner of Everett Dorey LLP, leads a full-service civil litigation firm representing multi-national corporations, nonprofits and public entities in California. Specializing in complex civil litigation, she emphasizes catastrophic injury, public entity defense, employment law and environmental law. Dorey shapes a diverse team of litigators, prioritizing female empowerment and workplace inclusion. She’s received numerous accolades, including recognition from The Best Lawyers in America and the Orange County Business Journal. Her commitment extends to community service, serving on the board of directors for the Public Law Center and teaching at Chapman University. Under Dorey’s leadership, Everett Dorey LLP has been recognized as a top workplace and a leader in diversity, equity and inclusion.
Alicia Cox
CEO & Founder
Prjkt Restaurant Group
Alicia Cox, founder and CEO of Prjkt Restaurant Group, is a notable figure in Orange County’s dining scene, recognized for her innovative beachfront establishments and community engagement. With a background in marketing and the restaurant industry, she’s opened award-winning restaurants and led large-scale marketing efforts. In 2023, Cox introduced brunch to Huntington Beach, hosted the county’s first beach pride event and launched The Salty B, a fashion and home goods retail destination. Her SeaScoops venture brings mobile concessions with ice cream treats to Orange County, expanding her company’s reach. Cox secured contracts for major surf events and holds a unique 10-year agreement for beach concessions along Huntington State Beach. Her forthcoming cookbook and YouTube channel will share her culinary expertise.
Jenny Zhan
Chief Executive Officer
Beyond Holding U.S.
Jenny Zhan is a seasoned leader in investment management, renowned for managing over $4 billion in assets and attracting billions in international investment to North America, particularly in real estate and alternative investments. She has over 20 years of experience in institutional investments, including extensive work with the EB-5 program, assisting foreign investors in navigating U.S. financial systems and regulations. Zhan’s firm focuses on value investing across real estate assets and adapted successfully during the COVID-19 pandemic, prioritizing client interests and community support. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is dedicated to mentoring women and fostering diversity in the investment industry through organizations like AAAIM and Girls Who Invest.
