#USA #Los Angeles #Gen Z #Pacsun #The Youth Report

A Transformative Gathering: The Pacsun Purpose Partner Summit 2025

On September 18, 2025, Pacsun hosted its inaugural Pacsun Purpose Partner Summit at Rolling Greens in Downtown Los Angeles. This landmark event marked a significant shift for the brand, transitioning from a traditional retailer to a pivotal cultural facilitator. With over 300 influential figures from sectors including fashion, media, and wellness in attendance, this summit set the stage for meaningful conversations about youth engagement and purpose-led initiatives.

Uniting for a Common Cause

The evening kicked off with CEO Brieane Olson emphasizing the power of leading with intention. “Pacsun has always been committed to listening to the voices of young people,” Olson stated. The gathering underscored the company's dedication to creating a community-centered approach in retail—a theme echoed through the day's discussions and activities.

Insights Into Youth Culture

A central highlight of the Summit was the unveiling of The Youth Report by Pacsun. Developed in collaboration with GlobalData, this extensive report incorporated feedback from more than 6,000 young respondents aged 11 to 24. Some of the findings revealed that music plays a more crucial role in personal identity compared to fashion or social media, with mental health emerging as the top concern for today’s youth. This data positions Pacsun as a thought leader willing to guide brands on how to connect meaningfully with younger generations.

Establishing the Youth Advisory Council

Continuing this trend of youth empowerment, Pacsun launched its Pacsun Youth Advisory Council. This group, comprised of notable Gen Z and Gen Alpha creators, will collaborate with Pacsun executives throughout the coming years. Council members, including Anna Sitar and Jabari Malik Williams, will engage in creative workshops, mentorship sessions, and product strategy discussions, providing fresh insights that reflect authentic youth perspectives.

Engaging Panels and Discussions

The event featured various panels designed to bridge generational gaps and generate fresh ideas:

• - Music Panel: Moderated by Tamala Lewis, this session included discussions on how brands can connect with younger audiences through music, emphasizing co-creation and authenticity.

• - Impact of Social Commerce Panel: A fascinating insight was presented on the 'Lyla Biggs Effect', showcasing how TikTok influencers are reshaping the landscape of retail sales, evidenced by the sold-out Casey Astrid jeans.

• - Brand Partnership Spotlight Panel: This dialogue highlighted the importance of community-driven collaborations, reinforcing the need for brands to engage authentically and meaningfully with their audiences.

• - Pacsun Youth Council Panel: The youth members expressed enthusiasm for shaping the brand, focusing on innovation in style and a commitment to community.

Experiential Highlights

The summit was not just about discussions; it was also filled with interactive experiences. From guided meditation sessions by Bella Moreno to performances by artists from the Pacsun Collective, moments of creativity punctuated the day. Special installations encouraged guests to engage with cultural themes pertinent to young people, such as the Manifest Tree and a Circulate art display showcasing student work from Simon Tech High School.

A Commitment to Purpose

The Pacsun Purpose Partner Summit reinforced the brand's transition into a cultural hub while retaining its status as a leading fashion destination. The day reflecting on the importance of community, creativity, and transparency set a precedent for how retail can evolve in a rapidly changing cultural landscape. With initiatives like The Youth Report and the Youth Advisory Council, Pacsun isn’t just responding to youth culture—it's co-creating it. As Olson shared, “This summit was a powerful reminder of our unified purpose, and I am excited for what we can achieve together.”

In a world where brands are increasingly influenced by generational values, Pacsun stands at the forefront of a movement that celebrates youth voices and combines fashion with purpose. For more information on The Youth Report by Pacsun, visit the Pacsun website.