Jonathan Beutler has a story.

Every journey begins with a purpose. Mine just happened to lead me through diplomatic halls abroad, community boardrooms at home, and the occasional situation where I found myself shaking hands with someone whose face appears on currency. Over the years, I’ve worked across international, consular, political, business, and civic arenas—helping citizens, advising leaders, and building bridges (the metaphorical kind, although I’m always pro-infrastructure).

With two master’s degrees and a career built around global engagement, I’ve had the privilege of representing American values overseas, strengthening public institutions, and contributing to the civic life of the South Bay—my family’s beautiful home community. Along the way, I’ve met presidents, heads of state, senators, diplomats, and others who lead and serve. Those moments appear in my “Portfolio of Encounters”, a gallery that proves two things:

  1. I really was in the room, and

  2. someone with a camera was kind enough to capture it.

But behind the handshakes, lapel pins, and (usually) good lighting, my work has always been about people—their needs, their stories, and their futures. Whether collaborating with diplomats, guiding public agencies, or volunteering locally, I bring the same belief to every role: service matters. And how we show up—globally, locally, and yes, even online—can make a lasting impact.

This site shares a glimpse of that journey: the experiences behind the photos, the work that has shaped me, and the purpose-driven mission that continues to guide where I go next.

Jonathan Beutler child Korean Friendship Bell San Pedro Los Angeles California South Bay portrait landscape
Jonathan Beutler in Manhattan Beach, California
Jonathan Beutler at the American Embassy in Tokyo, Japan with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry