Washington, D.C. – The Black Professionals in International Affairs (BPIA) hosted their ‘Garden of Legends’ Fundraising Gala at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Washington, D.C on September 7, 2024. The event, held during BPIA National Week, served as a continuation of BPIA’s 35th-anniversary celebrations and brought together professionals dedicated to advancing Black representation in international affairs
Alexandria J. Maloney, President of BPIA, led the evening as the Mistress of Ceremony. She welcomed the guests and introduced BPIA Advisory Chairman Charles Carithers, who opened the event. His remarks reflected on the organization’s ongoing mission of ensuring that Black voices contribute to decision-making on the nation’s most pressing foreign policy and national security challenges.
The gala honored BPIA’s roots by recognizing founding members Dr. Michelle Titi, Earl Yates, and Betty Jackmond. These pioneers shared their experiences and the organization’s early vision, reminding attendees of BPIA’s enduring mission to promote Black excellence in international affairs.
We are Old! We are Bold! We are Golden!
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) September 17, 2024
Remarks from Founding and Veteran Members of Black Professionals in International Affairs (BPIA) at the Garden of Legends Fundraising Gala – September 7, 2024. @GovWesMoore @MayorBowser @BPIAtweets @GloballyAJM @AmbMukantabana… pic.twitter.com/wtbO5Xcfoj
Alexandria Maloney read a proclamation from D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser declaring the week as National BPIA Week in Washington, D.C., followed by a citation from Maryland Governor Wes Moore. These official recognitions accentuated BPIA’s growing influence and impact over the past three decades.
Alexandria J. Maloney, President of Black Professionals in International Affairs reads proclamation of BPIA National Week from Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser@MayorBowser @KimberlyBassett @BPIAtweets @GloballyAJM @AmbMukantabana @BMasalosalo @MichaelSerwadda @RobieKakonge_… pic.twitter.com/92iw33q5io
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) September 17, 2024
BPIA's President reads Governor Wes Moore of Maryland's citation on the occasion of BPIA National Week recently at the BPIA's Fundraising Gala. @GovWesMoore @MayorBowser @BPIAtweets @GloballyAJM @AmbMukantabana @RobieKakonge_ @BMasalosalo @MichaelSerwadda @Wecaa_official… pic.twitter.com/dRPTVVAJuG
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) September 17, 2024
The evening also honored key figures within the BPIA community. Shawanesh Underwood, Chief of Staff, Office of the Under Secretary of Arms Control and International Security was named Woman of the Year for her contributions to the organization. In her brief speech, she expressed gratitude and called on others to find their place within BPIA, whether in international affairs, corporate America, or beyond.
Credit: Credit: Isaiah Decruise & Edgar Romero.
Shawanesh Underwood Honored as BPIA Woman of the Year @GovWesMoore @MayorBowser @BPIAtweets @GloballyAJM @AmbMukantabana @RobieKakonge_ @BMasalosalo @MichaelSerwadda @Wecaa_official @JanDuPlain @PatrickRealiza @BuchiMenkiti @gotebs @HealthyLights pic.twitter.com/YMh3SPe13Z
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) September 17, 2024
Michael B. Serwadda, Chief of Staff & Strategy Director for Global Government Affairs & Policy at Hewlett Packard (HP), was recognized as the Man of the Year. Originally from Uganda, Serwadda shared how his background and global experiences shaped his personal and professional journey. He credited BPIA with providing him with the platform and resources to make meaningful contributions. His speech highlighted the necessity of financial support to continue the organization’s work.
Michael B. Serwadda, Chief of Staff & Strategy Director for Global Government Affairs & Policy at Hewlett Packard (HP), Honored with BPIA Man of the Year Award.@GovWesMoore @MayorBowser @BPIAtweets @GloballyAJM @AmbMukantabana @RobieKakonge_ @BMasalosalo @MichaelSerwadda… pic.twitter.com/wY43seEwwx
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) September 17, 2024
Actor and entrepreneur Aldis Hodge, recipient of the 2024 BPIA Arts and Impact Award, shared a deeply personal story about his upbringing and how his mother’s strength shaped his success as an entrepreneur. He spoke passionately about creating sustainable opportunities for future generations, emphasizing BPIA’s role in breaking cycles of inequality.
American Award winning Actor, Aldis Hodge receives 2024 BPIA Arts and Impact Award @GovWesMoore @MayorBowser @BPIAtweets @GloballyAJM @AmbMukantabana @RobieKakonge_ @BMasalosalo @MichaelSerwadda @Wecaa_official @JanDuPlain @PatrickRealiza @BuchiMenkiti @gotebs @HealthyLights pic.twitter.com/aU55Oqc6IJ
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) September 17, 2024
As the gala concluded, Alexandria Maloney delivered a powerful closing statement, affirming BPIA’s enduring relevance. “It is our Time…BPIA is not a moment. BPIA is a movement”. Guests then enjoyed dancing and networking, with an after-party continuing the night’s energy at a separate venue.
It is our Time!- President Alexandria J. Maloney of BPIA gave a concise but inspiring closing remarks at the BPIA Garden of Legends Fundraising Gala. @GovWesMoore @MayorBowser @BPIAtweets @GloballyAJM @AmbMukantabana @RobieKakonge_ @BMasalosalo @MichaelSerwadda @Wecaa_official… pic.twitter.com/B30QitLoXQ
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) September 17, 2024
The Garden of Legends Fundraising Gala exemplified BPIA’s commitment to excellence, community, and progress in international affairs. It brought together generations of Black professionals, from founding members to rising stars, all united in their dedication to shaping global policy and creating opportunities for future leaders.
