Black Professionals in International Affairs upcoming events

Call for Speakers: Become a DialogueHouse Speaker - Help Shape Global Policy Conversations (07/23/2026)

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Applications are now open for volunteer speakers for the BPIA DialogueHouse Discussion Series (July–December 2026).

Application Deadline: Monday, July 27 (11:59 PM ET)

Location: Zoom (Virtual Session)

Help Shape Global Policy Conversation

DialogueHouse is a member-led initiative within Black Professionals in International Affairs (BPIA) that brings together students, professionals, researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and development practitioners to explore the global issues shaping our world.

Each month, we host a one-hour virtual policy discussion where speakers from diverse sectors share how global issues connect to their work, research, and lived experiences. Every session is designed as a low-lift, open dialogue that encourages thoughtful conversation, diverse perspectives, and shared learning.

You do not need to be a recognized expert to apply. If you have a meaningful perspective, professional experience, research, or lived experience related to one or more of our discussion topics, we encourage you to apply.

2026 Discussion Topics

July 31 (Register to Join the Discussion)

Fragmented or United? Rethinking Africa's Negotiating Power in a Multipolar World

August 28

Beyond the Game: Sports Diplomacy and Africa's Growing Global Influence

September 25

China and Africa: Strategic Partnership or New Dependency?

October 30

Health Security Without Borders: Africa's Preparedness for the Next Global Pandemic

November 27

Climate Finance and Africa: Who Pays for Africa's Green Transition?

December 18

Africa 2030: Policies, Partnerships & Priorities for the Next Decade

What to Expect as a Speaker

A moderated virtual discussion on Zoom
A 5–6 minute opening perspective followed by facilitated questions
An opportunity to contribute alongside professionals from different sectors and countries
Networking with a global community passionate about international affairs and public policy

Stay Connected

Join the DialogueHouse WhatsApp Community to receive discussion updates, speaker opportunities, and connect with members interested in global policy conversations. Join here: [WhatsApp Community]

Visit the DialogueHouse webpage to explore previous discussions, event recordings, session reports, speaker highlights, and upcoming opportunities.

Learn more: [DialogueHouse Website]

Application Deadline: Monday, July 27 (11:59 PM ET)

Apply Now: [Link Here]

(Virtual Tabletop Exercise) The Diplomatic Table: "Declaration of Diaspora Determination": Designing the Future of Global African Diaspora Representation within the African Union (07/27/2026)

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 23:00:00 GMT

The Diplomatic Table: Declaration of Diaspora Determination

Designing the Future of Global African Diaspora Representation within the African Union

A Virtual Interactive Diplomatic Simulation & Tabletop Exercise

Join the Black Professionals in International Affairs (BPIA) for a first-of-its-kind diplomatic governance simulation exploring one of the most important institutional questions facing the global African community:

What would it take to establish a globally recognized representative mechanism for the African diaspora within the African Union?

This simulation is inspired by BPIA's continued engagement with the African Union Citizens and Diaspora Organizations Directorate (CIDO)—the African Union directorate responsible for strengthening partnerships with African citizens, civil society organizations, and the global African diaspora. In 2026, BPIA has been invited to participate in the African Union CIDO Diaspora Forum in Burundi, where diaspora leaders from across Africa, North America, Europe, the Caribbean, Latin America, Asia, and beyond will convene to discuss the future of Africa's engagement with its global diaspora.

Building on that real-world opportunity, participants will step into the roles of diplomats, policymakers, civil society leaders, academics, and diaspora representatives tasked with addressing one of the African Union's most significant long-term governance questions:

How can the global African diaspora organize itself to become a more coordinated and representative partner of the African Union?

Date: Monday, July 27, 2026

⏰ Time: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT

Location: Virtual (Zoom) https://us06web.zoom.us/j/9794618227

Relevant Materials

2023 Report - BPIA x AU CIDO Diaspora Forum Report
White Paper - 2026 AU x BPIA White Paper (Open to Comments)
All Reports - US-Africa Policy Briefing Series

What to Expect

Working through a collaborative diplomatic simulation and tabletop exercise, participants will explore questions of governance, legitimacy, leadership, representation, institutional design, and accountability. Together, we will examine how a diverse global African diaspora—spanning continents, cultures, and generations—might organize itself around shared priorities while supporting the African Union's objectives for engagement, innovation, investment, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.

Rather than debating history alone, this simulation challenges participants to design practical solutions. Through facilitated negotiation and strategic discussion, attendees will draft recommendations on institutional structure, leadership models, membership, and pathways for future collaboration between the African Union and the global African diaspora.

Together We Will Explore

✅ What should meaningful diaspora representation look like?

✅ How can Africa and its global diaspora collaborate more effectively?

✅ What governance model would best serve future generations?

✅ How should leadership, legitimacy, and accountability be established?

✅ What recommendations should be advanced to African Union leaders?

Discussion Topics Include

Defining the global African diaspora
Representation and institutional legitimacy
Governance and leadership models
Economic development and innovation
Trade, investment, and entrepreneurship
Youth and next-generation leadership
Civil society coordination
Institutional design and organizational structure
Recommendations for future African Union engagement

The session will be facilitated by Alexandria Maloney, President of the Black Professionals in International Affairs (BPIA) and is designed for diplomats, policymakers, government officials, researchers, nonprofit leaders, students, and members of the global African diaspora.

No prior diplomatic experience is required.

Whether you are joining to learn, contribute, or challenge conventional thinking, this simulation offers a unique opportunity to participate in a collaborative policy design exercise addressing one of the most consequential questions surrounding Africa's future global engagement.

Take a seat at the Diplomatic Table and help shape the next chapter of Africa–diaspora collaboration.

2026 BPIA Premier Advertising Packages: Elevate Magazine & Awards (07/30/2026)

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 03:59:00 GMT

Click Here to Purchase an Ad

Advertise in the 2026 BPIA Elevate Magazine

Want to showcase your organization to more than 24,000 professionals across international affairs, diplomacy, business, government, academia, and public service?

Whether you're looking to recruit top talent, promote your organization, highlight a program or event, celebrate an award recipient, or position your brand alongside one of the nation's fastest-growing international affairs communities, the 2026 BPIA Elevate Magazine offers a unique opportunity to reach leaders making an impact around the world.

Perfect for:

✔ Businesses & Corporate Partners

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✔ Congratulatory Messages & Tributes

Advertising Packages

Congratulations & Message of Support (up to 50 words) — $50
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Full-Page Advertisement — $750
Back Cover Sponsor (Exclusive) — $750
Front Cover Partner(Sponsored Feature Article) — $1,000
Front Cover Exclusive Profile(Exclusive Cover Story & Two-Page Editorial Feature) — $5,000
Free BPIA Official Partner Half-Page Advertisement

By advertising with BPIA, your organization will reach:

5,000+ digital magazine readers
23,000+ followers across BPIA's social media platforms
A growing network of global leaders, policymakers, diplomats, students, and professionals

Email elevate@iabpia.org for questions.

Click Here to Purchase an Ad

Every package can be used to promote organizations, businesses, universities, programs, products, services, recruitment opportunities, events, initiatives, or to recognize individuals through congratulatory messages, tributes, and messages of support.

Your Advertisement Can Promote

Celebrating a BPIA Award Recipient or Power 50 Honoree?

Recognize their achievement with a personalized congratulatory message that will appear alongside this year's honorees.

Whether you're a colleague, employer, family member, mentor, alumni association, university, or corporate partner,

your message becomes part of a keepsake publication celebrating leaders shaping the future of international affairs.

Congratulations Messages begin at just $50.

Reserve Your Space Today!

Advertising space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Content Policy: BPIA reserves the right to reject or request revisions to any submission that does not comply with the

BPIA Advertising Terms & Conditions or is otherwise deemed inconsistent with the organization's mission, values, or publication standards.

[UPCOMING VIRTUAL EVENT] "Fragmented or United: Rethinking Africa's Negotiating Power in a Multipolar World" - BPIA DialogueHouse Discussion (07/31/2026)

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:00:00 GMT

REGISTER HERE

Discussion Topic: “Fragmented or United: Rethinking Africa's Negotiating Power in a Multipolar World”

Date & Time: Friday, July 31, 2026 from 12:00pm - 1:00 pm ET

Location (Zoom): https://us06web.zoom.us/j/9794618227

Open to: The BPIA Community At-Large

About the Session

As global power continues to shift, Africa is navigating an increasingly complex international landscape shaped by geopolitical competition, emerging economic powers, regional integration, and evolving diplomatic alliances.

In a multipolar world, African countries are presented with new opportunities to diversify partnerships, strengthen regional cooperation, and shape global agendas. At the same time, differing national interests, external influence, and fragmented negotiating positions raise important questions about the continent's collective bargaining power.

Our July session will explore whether Africa is stronger negotiating as a united bloc or through individual national interests, and what this means for diplomacy, trade, development, security, and global governance.

Through an interactive discussion, participants will examine how African states engage with global powers, the role of regional institutions, and what it will take for Africa to exercise greater influence in an increasingly multipolar world.

BPIA's DialogueHouse Discussion Series creates a community-centered space for members to thoughtfully engage with the global issues shaping our world.

This discussion is designed as a low-lift, open dialogue space that encourages shared learning, diverse perspectives, and meaningful exchange across global diplomacy, governance, policy, and leadership.

What We’ll Explore

What a multipolar world means for Africa's global influence
Should Africa negotiate collectively or prioritize national interests?
The role of the African Union and regional cooperation in strengthening Africa's voice
Trade, investment, security, and diplomacy in an increasingly competitive global landscape
Opportunities and challenges presented by emerging global powers
Practical strategies for strengthening Africa's negotiating power in international affairs

Who Should Attend

Students & young professionals
Policy and governance practitioners
International Development Enthusiast
Anyone interested in governance, transparency, and nation-building

Sign up today and add your voice to the conversation.

Register here: [Link Here]

[SPONSORS ONLY] Register as a Sponsor for the 2026 National BPIA Week (08/01/2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Announcing National BPIA Week Sponsorships Now Open!

This year, BPIA is excited to announce the 3nd Annual National BPIA Week held annually on the first week of September!

VIEW SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES HERE

BPIA is on a mission to increase the involvement and engagement of African Americans and those of African descent in the international affairs field at large. We do this through our four pillars of impact:

Develop our Leaders
Reach Back
Amplify Our Voices
Expand Our Community

This work would not be possible without the help and generous support of our members, donors, and partners. Thank you.

For more information about sponsorships for National BPIA Week, please email sponsors@iabpia.org. Email us for the sponsorship packet details.

Deadline is June 30, 2026 for inclusion in the promotional material.

BPIA Powell Institute Colloquium: August ft. Morgan Mickle "Systems Thinking & Policy Awareness" (08/01/2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Module 5: Systems Thinking & Policy Awareness ft. Morgan Mickle

Saturday, August 1, 2026
9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Google Meets: meet.google.com/amg-tuhi-ued

Join us for a discussion on systems thinking and policy awareness, exploring how interconnected systems, power dynamics, and incentives influence leadership, policymaking, and global affairs. Through the lens of current events – including geopolitical shifts and economic realignments – we will examine how local and global decisions shape one another and why systems thinking is essential for navigating today's complex policy landscape.

This event is open to Powell cohort and active BPIA members.

Speaker Bio

Morgan Mickle is an international development professional with over 15 years of experience leading learning, impact, and systems change initiatives while partnering with governments, NGOs, and philanthropic organizations across more than 20 countries.

(RECRUITERS & EXHIBITORS ONLY) 2026 BPIA Virtual Career Fair Interest Form (08/01/2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Spots are filling fast!

BPIA Virtual Career Fair: Global Pathways

Wednesday, September 2, 2026

Virtual via zoom; 6:00pm - 8:00pm EDT

One Step Required to Enroll

Step 1 - Complete payment on this webpage

Note: Once enrollment information is received, your designated point of contact will receive next steps and information on the dry run day.

ATTENTION: This enrollment form is for conference exhibitors, and recruiters only. Early enrollment will allow BPIA to include your company name and logo in promotional materials for general registration to be circulated.

Are you an organization with financial constraints or restrictions but opportunities for students? Email us for more information - bpiacareerfair@iabpia.org.

The International Association of Black Professionals in International Affairs (BPIA) has the Federal tax-exempt status as a 501(c) (3) association to the extent permitted by Federal and/or State laws. Participant registrations, fees, and donations support student scholarships and BPIA programs.

BPIA August First Friday: World Humanitarian Day Celebration (08/07/2026)

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Click Here to Register!

BPIA August First Friday

Foreign Affairs Social Mixer

World Humanitarian Day

Inspired by the spirit of World Humanitarian Day, this month's BPIA First Friday brings together professionals, students, diplomats, and emerging leaders for an evening of networking, reflection, and global connection.

As we recognize the individuals and communities working to advance peace, humanitarian action, and positive change around the world, join us for meaningful conversations, new connections, and an opportunity to celebrate our shared commitment to global impact.

Guests are encouraged to wear white and gold as a symbol of unity, hope, and service. Whether you're reconnecting with colleagues or meeting fellow globally minded professionals for the first time, we look forward to celebrating with you during another memorable evening with the BPIA community.

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

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, August 7, 2026 | 6-8 PM EDT
Dress Code: White & Gold
Note: Venue is 21+

(Virtual Fireside Chat) A Story of Progress & Innovation ft. C.E. "Chuck Johnson (08/11/2026)

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

A Story of Progress & Innovation: A Virtual Fireside Chat ft. C.E. "Chuck" Johnson

Tuesday, August 11, 2026
6:00pm – 7:30pm EDT
Virtual (Zoom)
Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/9794618227

Join the Black Professionals in International Affairs (BPIA), the Lewis Latimer Fellowship Program, Carillon Historical Park, and Preservation Dayton for an inspiring conversation with C.E. "Chuck" Johnson—chemist, engineer, innovator, historian, and preservation advocate—whose remarkable career alongside legendary inventor Charles F. Kettering helped advance engineering, automotive innovation, materials research, aerospace technology, and experimental research.

Moderated by Alexandria J. Maloney, President of the Black Professionals in International Affairs and a 2025 Lewis Latimer Fellow, this conversation will explore Mr. Johnson's extraordinary journey—from his beginnings as a chemistry student at Central State University, Ohio's only public Historically Black College and University (HBCU), to working directly alongside Charles F. Kettering during the final years of Kettering's life, and later leading engineering, aerospace, and information technology initiatives that helped shape modern innovation.

Together, we'll discuss the importance of preserving Black excellence in STEM, the lessons learned from a lifetime of scientific discovery, how America can remain globally competitive through innovation, and Johnson's advice for the next generation of inventors, engineers, entrepreneurs, scientists, and leaders.

Following the moderated conversation, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a live audience Q&A, offering a rare opportunity to engage directly with one of the few living individuals who worked alongside one of America's greatest inventors.

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required.

Speaker Bio

C.E. "Chuck" Johnson is a chemist, engineer, innovator, historian, preservation advocate, and lifelong champion of American ingenuity. At more than ninety years old, his extraordinary career spans nearly seven decades of scientific research, engineering innovation, executive leadership, and historical preservation—offering a rare firsthand perspective on many of the technological advances that shaped the twentieth century. Guided by his personal motto, "So much to do, so little time," Johnson continues to lecture, write, research, and inspire future generations through his commitment to education, innovation, and public service. He also continues to share Dayton's rich history with audiences through his YouTube channel, History Speaks; C. E. Johnson.

A proud graduate of Central State University—Ohio's only public Historically Black College and University (HBCU)—Johnson earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry before embarking on a distinguished career that would place him alongside one of America's greatest inventors. He later earned a management degree from Antioch College in 1978, further strengthening the leadership and management expertise that would guide his advancement into executive roles. In 1957, he joined the Charles F. Kettering Research Laboratory as a Senior Research Associate, where he worked directly with Charles F. Kettering during the final years of Kettering's life. Those formative years provided Johnson with a front-row seat to one of the greatest periods of American innovation and shaped a career defined by curiosity, scientific excellence, and practical problem-solving.

Johnson later served in engineering and executive leadership roles supporting Air Force and NASA-related research, environmental systems, aerospace engineering, advanced engineering operations, and information technology. Throughout his career, he advanced from laboratory research to engineering management and executive leadership, contributing to projects that supported scientific discovery, technological advancement, and national defense during one of the most transformative periods in American history.

Following his retirement from industry, Johnson embarked on an equally impactful second career devoted to historic preservation and public education. As a docent, historical interpreter, trustee, and preservation advocate with organizations including Carillon Historical Park and Preservation Dayton, he has dedicated countless hours to preserving the legacy of Charles F. Kettering, the Wright brothers, Paul Laurence Dunbar, and the innovators whose discoveries established Dayton as one of America's great centers of invention. Through lectures, oral history projects, educational programs, and community engagement, he continues to ensure that future generations understand both the history of innovation and the often-overlooked contributions of Black scientists, engineers, and inventors.

Often describing his remarkable life as a "Gump-like journey," Johnson has found himself present at many defining moments in modern American history—from collaborating with Charles F. Kettering and contributing to aerospace innovation to attending the 1963 March on Washington, where he witnessed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s historic "I Have a Dream" speech. His life stands as a testament to curiosity, lifelong learning, service, and the enduring power of innovation to transform society.

Today, C.E. "Chuck" Johnson continues to share his remarkable experiences through public presentations, historical research, preservation initiatives, and educational outreach, inspiring audiences to preserve our nation's history while empowering the next generation of scientists, engineers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders.

ATLAS Presents...AI for Global Professionals Work Smarter: AI Tools Every Global Professional Should Know (08/12/2026)

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

AI for Global Professionals: Work Smarter—AI Tools Every Global Professional Should Know

Wednesday, August 12, 2026

6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT

Location Virtual Via Zoom (Shared After Registering)

VIEW POWERPOINT

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the way professionals research, write, communicate, and make decisions. Are you leveraging AI to work more efficiently, strengthen your professional output, and stay competitive—while maintaining authenticity and ethical standards?

Join Black Professionals in International Affairs (BPIA) for an interactive professional development session designed to introduce practical AI tools and strategies that can help you save time, increase productivity, and enhance the quality of your work. Whether you're drafting policy memos, preparing for interviews, conducting research, creating presentations, or building your professional brand, AI can become a valuable addition to your professional toolkit.

Led by BPIA President Alexandria Maloney, this hands-on session will explore real-world applications of AI across the international affairs, government, nonprofit, and private sectors. Participants will learn practical prompting techniques, discover AI tools for everyday professional tasks, and leave with resources they can begin using immediately.

Participants will leave with practical strategies—and a curated library of AI prompts—to help them work smarter, communicate more effectively, and increase their professional impact.

Topics Include

AI fundamentals and best practices for professionals
Prompting techniques that produce better results
AI for policy research and research synthesis
Drafting briefing memos, reports, and professional correspondence
AI for meeting notes, summaries, and action items
Preparing for interviews and presentations
LinkedIn, content creation, and personal branding with AI
Ethical considerations and responsible AI use in the workplace
Time-saving workflows to increase productivity

Who This Event Is For

This session is ideal for:

Students and recent graduates
Early-career professionals
Mid-career professionals seeking to improve productivity
Government, nonprofit, international affairs, policy, and private-sector professionals
Anyone interested in using AI to strengthen their professional effectiveness and future-proof their career

This is a BPIA Members-Exclusive Event.

This event is part of the ATLAS Early Career Readiness Series, BPIA's professional development initiative designed to equip emerging and established professionals with the skills, knowledge, and tools needed to thrive in today's evolving workforce.

3rd Annual Garden of Legends Fundraising Gala Reception (08/29/2026)

Sat, 29 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

3rd Annual Garden of Legends Fundraising Gala Reception

Date: Saturday, August 29, 2026

Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT

Location: Washington, DC (Private venue. Location shared upon confirmed registration.)

An Evening Celebrating Excellence

BPIA cordially invites you to an evening celebrating leadership, legacy, and global impact.

As the signature opening celebration of 2026 National BPIA Week, the 3rd Annual Garden of Legends Fundraising Gala Reception offers an unforgettable evening where diplomacy, culture, and celebration come together against the backdrop of Washington, D.C.

Set beneath the evening sky, guests will enjoy an elegant rooftop reception at the Wharf featuring music, meaningful conversations, light hors d'oeuvres, and a vibrant atmosphere as leaders from across government, diplomacy, business, philanthropy, academia, and the international affairs community gather to celebrate excellence and build lasting connections.

Throughout the evening, BPIA will proudly honor an extraordinary class of awardees whose leadership, vision, and service continue to shape communities, institutions, and the world. More than a celebration, the Garden of Legends Gala Reception is an opportunity to connect with remarkable leaders, celebrate extraordinary achievements, and invest in the next generation of changemakers who will shape our global future.

Whether reconnecting with longtime colleagues or forging new relationships, guests can expect an evening filled with inspiration, meaningful conversations, and moments that reflect the spirit of excellence, community, and global impact that define BPIA.

Event Highlights:

BPIA Global Awards Celebration
Rooftop Cocktail Reception
Stunning Waterfront Views of Washington, D.C.
Music
Professional Photography
Light Hors d'Oeuvres
Cash Bar
Distinguished Guests from Diplomacy, Government, Business & Philanthropy
Meaningful Networking & Relationship Building
Exclusive Opening Celebration of 2026 National BPIA Week

Attire: Elevated Cocktail • Black Tie Optional

Please Note: The event location will not be shared publicly. Only registered guests whose names appear on the official guest list will be permitted entry. There will be no on-site registration or walk-ins. For security and capacity reasons, individuals who are not on the official guest list will be turned away at the door.

Space is limited. Reserve your place today and join us for an unforgettable evening of recognition, connection, and celebration.

Pre-registration is required. No on-site registration or walk-ins will be permitted.

For sponsorship information - email sponsors@iabpia.org or visit www.iabpia.org/nationalbpiaweek