Rain Nega installed as Downey Chamber of Commerce president

Rain Nega speaks after being installed as Downey Chamber of Commerce president. Photo by Alex Dominguez

DOWNEY — Neelam “Rain” Nega was sworn in as president of the Downey Chamber of Commerce at its annual installation luncheon on Wednesday.

The Embassy Suites hosted the event, which was attended by city officials, business leaders, and community members.

Nega is an IT specialist and chief executive officer of Tech Builders. She was sworn-in by Mayor Mario Trujillo.

She said that she has felt supported by the community since joining the chamber, and expressed desire to spread that same feeling to other businesses.

“My vision is to support more businesses, and have more chamber services and programs, and celebrate our success while learning from our challenges,” said Nega.

She takes over for Daniel Andrade, whose term came to an end.

Andrade said it was “such an amazing year.” During Andrade’s year at the helm, the Chamber saw a number of firsts, including the addition of a Santas Village pop up to the annual Christmas Parade, and the inaugural Firecracker Festival and Fourth of July parade.

“I remember talking with Carmen [Gonzalez] about one of the things as president is you have that one moment during your year to carry with you for the rest of your life,” said Andrade. “I think I’m blessed because there were so many moments this year that I’m taking with me.”

The Downey Chamber also recognized several award winners. They were:

Financial Partners Credit Union, Large Business of the Year

Yoeweb Design, Small Business of the Year

Downey Collective, Rookie of the Year

Larry Garces, Man of the Year

Carmen Gonzalez, Woman of the Year

Nicole Machado, Ambassador of the Year