RAW Artists Announces CEO Transition as the Organization Celebrates Its 16th Anniversary
The Californer/10307554

LOS ANGELES - Californer -- RAW Artists, the world's premier independent arts organization, is proud to announce a leadership transition as it marks its 16th anniversary. After founding and leading RAW for over 15 years, Heidi Luerra is officially stepping down as CEO. Taking the helm is Meghan Jones, a long-time team member and dedicated advocate for independent artists.

Jones, who has been with RAW Artists since 2010, has played a critical role in the company's operations, artist relations, and event production. As the new CEO, she brings deep institutional knowledge, a passion for fostering creative communities, and a vision to continue RAW's mission of empowering independent artists, musicians, designers, and performers worldwide.

"As I transition out of my role as CEO, I am thrilled to pass the torch to someone who has been an integral part of RAW's journey for over a decade," said Heidi Luerra, RAW's founder. "Meghan is an inspiring leader, deeply committed to our mission and the artists we serve. I have full confidence in her ability to guide RAW into its next chapter."

More on The Californer

• Freedom Seder LA Brings Together Black, Jewish, and Black-Jewish Leaders for an Evening of Unity and Liberation
• Actor Arif Ali Khan from Documentary Toronto Wonderland, featured in Sundance, in recovery status
• Winners Announced For The 3rd Annual AHS Awards
• Damian Redd's "Caught in a Fantasy" Surpasses 100,000 Views on VEVO/YouTube Following Album Reissue
• California: Governor Newsom responds to DOGE's dismantling of AmeriCorps: 'Middle finger to volunteers. We will sue'

RAW Artists began in 2009 as a grassroots effort to provide a platform for emerging creatives. Under Luerra's leadership, it grew into a global network with showcases in over 70 cities, representing more than 200,000 artists across multiple disciplines.

Jones expressed excitement about the transition: "RAW has been my home for nearly 15 years, and I am honored to step into this role. I am deeply committed to supporting independent artists and continuing to build a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving creative community. I look forward to leading RAW into its next evolution."

As part of this transition, Luerra will remain involved behind the scenes in a financial advisory role for the next few months to ensure a seamless handoff. She encourages RAW's artist community to stay engaged with her journey via www.HeidiLuerra.com, where she will be sharing updates on her upcoming book release and new ventures in business strategy and turnaround consulting.

More on The Californer

• 100 days after the fires: California and Los Angeles rebuild, recover, and rise together
• Retirement Community hosts Los Angeles Fashion Show
• California: Governor Newsom proclaims Arab American Heritage Month
• Long Beach Public Library Celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with Community Programs
• Ten Acres Pharmacy Leads Way in Sustainable Packaging with Pillumina's 100% Recyclable Pill Bottle

RAW Artists invites its community, partners, and supporters to celebrate this milestone and look forward to an exciting new era under Meghan Jones' leadership.

About RAW Artists

RAW Artists is an independent arts organization dedicated to providing emerging talent across various creative fields with resources, exposure, and support. Through live showcases, digital features, and community engagement, RAW connects artists with opportunities to launch and sustain their careers. Learn more at www.RAWartists.com.

Media Contact

Meghan Jones
meghan@rawartists.com512-393-9072