Leading While Black in Global Spaces

Professional Development & Mentorship Committee Monthly Meeting

Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026 (4th Thursday of Every Month)
Time: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM ET
Location: Google Meet
Google Meet Link: meet.google.com/ndw-zwtc-fer

Event Description

What does it mean to lead when you are often the only one in the room?

How do you navigate spaces where you may be underrepresented, underestimated, or expected to carry the weight of representation?

What is the difference between mentorship, sponsorship, and advocacy—and why do some professionals advance faster than others despite having similar credentials?

Is your resume really the problem, or are there other factors influencing career progression that no one talks about openly?

Join the BPIA Professional Development and Mentorship Committee led by Dr. Khulud Khudur for an honest conversation about leadership, visibility, influence, and career advancement in international affairs and global-facing professions.

This interactive discussion will explore the unique opportunities and challenges Black professionals encounter while leading across government, international organizations, nonprofits, academia, corporate environments, and other global spaces.

Whether you are a student, early-career professional, mid-career practitioner, or senior leader, this session is designed to provide practical insights, candid discussion, and an opportunity to learn from the experiences of fellow professionals navigating similar journeys.

Discussion Topics

• Mentorship, Sponsorship, and Advocacy: What's the Difference?
• Being the Only One in the Room
• Your Resume Isn't the Problem
• Building Influence and Credibility Across Cultures
• Executive Presence in Global and Professional Settings
• Career Navigation and Professional Growth
• Lessons Learned from Black Leaders Across Sectors

Come prepared to share your experiences, ask questions, and engage in a thoughtful conversation with members of the BPIA community.

We look forward to learning, growing, and supporting one another.