Exhibit 23.1 CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-43531) pertaining to the Community West Bancshares 1997 Stock Option Plan of our report dated February 26, 2003, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedules of Community West Bancshares included in the Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. /s/ Ernst & Young LLP Los Angeles, California March 28, 2003