BPIA May First Friday: Mentor-Mentee Social Mixer

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Join BPIA for our May First Friday — an evening centered on mentorship, connection, and shared growth across the international affairs community. Whether you are seeking guidance, offering experience, or simply looking to expand your network, this gathering creates space for meaningful exchange between mentors and emerging professionals.

Through conversation and community, we will highlight the importance of mentorship in shaping careers, strengthening leadership, and expanding access across diplomacy, policy, national security, and global development. Attendees will have the opportunity to build relationships, share insights, and engage with peers and leaders who are committed to supporting the next generation.

This evening brings together members, partners, and rising professionals for a dynamic and welcoming environment to connect, learn from one another, and continue building a strong and supportive BPIA network.

This event is open to the public (21+).

Meet our Guests of Honor

Dr. Khulud Khudur

Dr. Khulud Elnur Khudur is a distinguished public health leader, educator, and advocate for equity, mentorship, and global representation. Her career bridges public health, education, and policy, advancing data-driven strategies that empower communities and strengthen systems.

Dr. Khudur’s contributions have been recognized nationally, including the 40 Under 40 Public Health Catalyst Award, reflecting her unwavering commitment to excellence, service, and global Black leadership.

As the current Vice President of Professional Development and Mentoring, and Co-Chair of the Madam Ambassador Program and the Capitol Hill Committee, Dr. Khudur continues to advance BPIA’s mission through her impactful leadership, serving as a powerful example of dedication, excellence, and inspiration.

Bobby Curtis King II

Bobby Curtis King II, M.A has been a BPIA member for three years and is an early career professional with a passion for international development. Currently serving as the Vice President of Membership at BPIA, he previously supported the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, USAID and FCDO-funded programs in Africa, he worked in African Union’s Peace and Security department, the University of Peace, Africa Programme based in Addis Ababa, researching issues facing post-conflict societies. He has an M.A. in Global Studies with an emphasis in Peace and Security in Africa from Addis Ababa University and Leipzig University. He also holds a B.A. in Political Science from Elon University.

Wayne Browne

Wayne Browne is a seasoned national security professional with over 15 years of executive-level experience in interagency and joint service operational environments. A subject matter expert in intelligence and cyber operations, analysis, and policy, Wayne has a proven track record of providing strategic guidance and support to senior-level decision-makers.

As a retired Command Sergeant Major and Senior Enlisted Advisor in the military, Wayne has demonstrated expertise in intelligence operations, counterterrorism, and force protection, intelligence community operations, national security policy, and strategic planning. He has worked closely with senior-level officials across the US government, including the White House, National Security Council, and Intelligence Community. He is currently the VP of Professional Development and Mentorship and is the Chair of the Colin Powell Leadership Institute at BPIA.

Event Highlights:

• Networking & Social Mixer: Connect with professionals in foreign affairs and related fields

• Inspiring Conversations: Insights on leadership, advocacy, and navigating global challenges

• Celebratory Atmosphere: Music, drinks, and a vibrant community

• Venue: The Park at 14th – 920 14th St NW, Washington, DC

• ⏰ Date & Time: Friday, May 1, 2026 | 6-8 PM EDT