MB WEEKLY – WOMEN OF IMPACT- LISA HEMMAT

We're so proud to share that our very own Lisa Hemmat, owner of Lido Di Manhattan, was recently featured in the Women of Impact series by MB WEEKLY 

In this spotlight, Lisa opens up about what it really means to balance ambition with presence, her perspective on leadership, and the values that guide both her business and her connection to the Manhattan Beach community. It's a reflection of the heart and intention she brings to Lido every single day.

We're honored to see her recognized, and for those who know her, this comes as no surprise.

SEE FULL PUBLICATION BELOW

Q: HOW DO YOU BALANCE AMBITION WITH PRESENCE – ESPECIALLY IN A COMMUNITY THAT NEVER SEEMS TO SLOW DOWN?
A: I love setting goals and achieving them – that drive is part of who I am. But I also love joy, connection, and community. For me, balance is everything. I believe in working hard and playing hard. When it's time to focus, I buckle down and make things happen. And when the work is done, I fully embrace the moment – whether that's supporting local events, gathering with friends, or being present with my family. Success means little if you aren't present enough to enjoy it.

Q: WHAT IS ONE MISCONCEPTION PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT STRONG WOMEN IN POSITIONS OF INFLUENCE?
A: One misconception is that strength automatically means toughness – and while resilience is important, it's only one dimension. Strong women often lead with empathy, creativity, generosity, and collaboration. Their warmth and depth can sometimes be overlooked because people focus only on their decisiveness. Strength and softness are not opposites – they coexist. And in many cases, that balance is what makes influential women so effective.

Q: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A 16-YEAR-OLD GIRL AT MIRA COSTA HIGH SCHOOL WHO WANTS TO LEAVE HER MARK ON THE WORLD?
A: Dream boldly – and then take action every single day toward those dreams. If you're passionate about business, surround yourself with motivated, like-minded people. Find mentors. Ask questions. Stay curious. Learn from setbacks and never give up on your vision. If your heart is in service, lean into the causes that truly move you. The impact you make will always be strongest when it aligns with what genuinely lights you up. Your mark on the world begins with believing you belong in it.

Q: TWENTY YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DO YOU HOPE SOMEONE WILL SAY ABOUT THE IMPACT YOU MADE IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: I hope they say I was a dedicated and exemplary member of this community – someone who built and sustained a successful local business for over 25 years while always giving back. I hope they remember that our doors were open not just for dining, but for connection – that we supported local schools, hosted meaningful events, and showed up when the city needed us. And I hope they say that through decades of Rotary service, I helped strengthen the spirit of generosity and service that makes Manhattan Beach such a special place to live.

www.LidoDiManhattan.com