Washington, D.C. – On Sunday, September 8, the Black Professionals in International Affairs (BPIA) hosted a Congressional Black Caucus Jazz Brunch at the Kennedy Center, drawing over 200 attendees from the diplomatic and corporate communities. This gathering, part of BPIA’s National BPIA Week, marked 35 years of the organization’s work in international affairs.
BPIA President Alexandria Maloney and Chairman Charles Carithers welcomed the audience, setting the tone for a meaningful event. The program featured remarks from Kennedy Center representatives Brandelyn Anderson and ForbesBLK leader Ayisha Mendez, along with a poetry reading by Priya Rubio, BPIA’s Madam Ambassador 2024 Graduate.
President Maloney led a toast to BPIA’s founding members, reading a proclamation from D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and a citation from Maryland Governor Wes Moore that officially recognized September 1-8 as National BPIA Week.
The keynote address was delivered by Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20), who received BPIA’s Congressional Global Leadership Award
The event honored several notable individuals for their contributions, including Sabrina Elba, UN Goodwill Ambassador, who received the BPIA Humanitarian Impact Award, and actor Aldis Hodge, who was recognized with the BPIA Arts and Impact Award. Carolina A. Wanga, President & CEO of Essence Ventures, was awarded the BPIA Vanguard Award, while Michael B. Serwadda, Founding Co-Chair of the BPIA Corporate Council, and Shawanesh Underwood, Co-Chair of BPIA’s Diplomatic Council, were named Members of the Year.
Other honorees included Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who shared her remarks virtually while receiving the BPIA Excellence in Diplomacy Global Leadership Award. Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA-12) and Ron Busby Sr., President & CEO of U.S. Black Chambers, were also recognized, along with Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), who delivered her acceptance speech virtually.
As the event drew to a close, BPIA Board Members Ethel Mwedziwendira and Michelle Washington, alongside Advisory Council member Angela Tate and MIPAD Founder Kamil Olufowobi, presented a special recognition to President Maloney for her leadership.
The Jazz Brunch was a key moment in National BPIA Week, reflecting BPIA’s ongoing commitment to supporting Black professionals in international affairs. The organization’s 35-year legacy continues to inspire and connect leaders from around the world.
