2026 BPIA Global Affairs Forum: "Leadership in a Changing World"

Time: 12:00 PM ET - 5:00PM ET 

Location: United Nations Association - National Capital Area Office 2300 N Street, NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20001

About the Forum

The 2026 BPIA Global Affairs Forum is the flagship policy conference of National BPIA Week, bringing together diplomats, policymakers, business executives, scholars, international organization representatives, students, and emerging leaders for an afternoon of dialogue on the future of global leadership and international affairs.

As the international landscape continues to evolve, today's leaders must navigate shifting geopolitical dynamics, technological disruption, economic competitiveness, and new approaches to diplomacy. Through engaging panel discussions and cross-sector conversations, the Forum will examine the ideas, partnerships, and leadership needed to strengthen America's role in the world while preparing the next generation of international affairs professionals.

Whether you are an established practitioner or exploring a career in international affairs, the Forum offers a unique opportunity to learn from distinguished experts, engage with peers across sectors, and participate in meaningful conversations shaping the future of diplomacy and global leadership.

Forum Themes

• Diplomacy in the 21st Century: The Future of U.S. Foreign Affairs
• Can America Stay Competitive? Innovation, Talent & the Race for Global Leadership
• Beyond the Game: Sports Diplomacy & America's Global Influence
• The Future of the International Affairs Profession: Preparing Tomorrow's Global Workforce

Who Should Attend?

The Forum welcomes participants from across the international affairs community, including:

• Diplomats and Foreign Service professionals
• Government officials and policymakers
• International organizations and multilateral institutions
• Business executives and corporate affairs professionals
• Think tanks and nonprofit organizations
• Faculty, researchers, and scholars
• Undergraduate and graduate students
• Young professionals and career changers
• Anyone interested in diplomacy, foreign policy, international development, peacebuilding, trade, global business, or international affairs

What to Expect

• High-level keynote conversations
• Expert panel discussions
• Networking with leaders across sectors
• Cross-sector collaboration and idea exchange
• Insights into the future of diplomacy, global competitiveness, sports diplomacy, and the international affairs profession

Event Information

Date: Friday, September 4, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM EDT
Location: United Nations Foundation Headquarters
Address: 1750 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20006
Attire: Business Professional

Registration Information

Advance registration is required for all attendees. Due to venue security protocols, registration is required for entry, and on-site registration or walk-in attendance will not be permitted.

Attendance is limited. Once maximum registration capacity has been reached, registration will close and a waitlist will be opened. Individuals on the waitlist will be contacted if additional space becomes available.

All approved registrants will receive a confirmation email with event logistics and additional information prior to the Forum.

Questions?

For sponsorship, partnership, media, accessibility, or general event inquiries, please contact: bpiaweek@iabpia.org. 

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Keynote Speaker

H.E. Mathilde Mukantabana

Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to the United States

Her Excellency Mathilde Mukantabana serves as the Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to the United States. A distinguished diplomat, educator, and advocate for international cooperation, Ambassador Mukantabana has dedicated her career to advancing diplomacy, strengthening U.S.–Africa relations, and promoting peace, education, and inclusive development.

Prior to her diplomatic appointment, Ambassador Mukantabana was a professor of history at Cosumnes River College in California, where she specialized in African history and international affairs. Throughout her career, she has championed initiatives that foster economic partnership, educational exchange, women's leadership, and deeper engagement between Africa and the global community.

As Rwanda's chief diplomatic representative to the United States, Ambassador Mukantabana has played a leading role in advancing bilateral cooperation across trade, investment, innovation, education, regional security, and multilateral engagement. Her leadership continues to strengthen partnerships that contribute to sustainable development and international collaboration.

During the 2026 BPIA Global Affairs Forum, Ambassador Mukantabana will deliver the keynote address and will be presented with the 2026 BPIA Global Leader in Peacebuilding Award in recognition of her distinguished leadership, unwavering commitment to diplomacy, and contributions to advancing peace, international cooperation, and global engagement.