Brilliant Insights and Visionaries: Highlights from ‘Experience Africa’ Panel Discussions
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Washington DC recently witnessed an exhilarating celebration of African and Caribbean culture at the highly anticipated “Experience Africa” conference, organized by The Voice of Africa. This grand event showcased the rich tapestry of traditions, innovations, and achievements from the vibrant diaspora community, leaving attendees in awe and excitement. With a dazzling array of events, discussions, and networking opportunities, the conference proved to be an unforgettable experience, setting the stage for an even grander affair in 2024.
One of the highlights of Experience Africa 2023 was the invigorating panel discussions that brought together visionaries and trailblazers from various sectors. Let’s dive into the highlights of each panel and the illustrious speakers who graced the stage.
Diaspora Engagement: Uniting for Global Impact
The Diaspora Engagement panel was an amalgamation of brilliance and expertise. Ike Nwaneri, an industry leader, astounded the audience with his insights from experience managing assets and marketplaces. Donovan Woodbery, a true multi-hyphenate, inspired us with his roles as Founder of MelaninCon, Lead Director of A Celebration of Us, Inc., and CEO of The Posh Standard Magazine. Nota Bayoli, a prominent figure in the US and South African music industry, shared captivating stories of his journey as a leader, manager, and creator.
African Digital Revolution & Cyber Diplomacy: Redefining the Future
The panel on African Digital Revolution & Cyber Diplomacy was an eye-opener, with experts shedding light on transformative technologies. Yasmin Abdi, Security Engineering Leader at Snapchat, formerly at Google & Meta, and CEO of noHack, captivated the audience with her expertise. Evan Attipoe, an Account Executive at Google Cloud, shared his knowledge on navigating the digital landscape. The profound insights of Amy Yeboah Quarkume, Ph.D., as an Associate Professor of African Studies and Data Science Director at Howard University, left everyone inspired and more curious to grasp the future of tech not only in the US, but in Africa as well. Anthony Attipoe, a Software Engineer at Google with experience at Twitter & Robinhood, and Phiwokuhle Mnyandu, Ph.D., a Lecturer at Howard University, added their invaluable perspectives, making it an unforgettable session.
African Continental Free Trade Area: Paving the Path to Prosperity
The African Continental Free Trade Area panel delved into groundbreaking discussions on economic growth. With speakers like Mohyeldin Omer, Senior Advisor of the African Bureau at USAID, Krista Johnson, Director of the Center for African Studies at Howard University, Jatinter Kaur Khosla, Director of International Business Investment – Fairfax County Economic Development Authority, and Brad Rohrs, President of Rohrs Team & Partner at Colewood Properties, the audience was introduced to a world of opportunities and possibilities.
Tourism as a Tool for Economic Growth: Unleashing the Hidden Treasures
The Tourism panel was a journey of exploration and discovery. Curtis Smith, Director of Strategic Partnerships at the International Kunta Kinteh Festival, shared how tourism can bridge cultures and boost economies. Maureen Umeh, FOX 5 Morning anchor and reporter, brought her unique perspective on the power of media in promoting destinations. Dr. Bernard Mambo, a French educator & World Language Department Chair at Saint John’s Catholic Preparatory School, and Dawit Haile, Head of Political Affairs at the Embassy of Eritrea, completed the panel, leaving the audience inspired to embark on their curiosity in Africa’s tourism industry.
As the curtains fell on Experience Africa 2023, the attendees left with hearts full of pride and admiration for the diaspora community’s incredible achievements. The success of this conference has set the bar high for Experience Africa 2024. The anticipation is already building, with promises of even more breathtaking experiences, unparalleled networking opportunities, and soul-stirring conversations.
Indeed, Experience Africa has proven to be one the best conferences DC has ever seen for the diaspora community. It has become a platform to celebrate our roots, embrace our diversity, and collaborate for a brighter future. We eagerly await what’s in store for Experience Africa 2024, where we will continue to celebrate the richness of African and Caribbean culture and make a lasting impact on the world.
Join us next year as we embark on another incredible journey through culture, innovation, and solidarity – Experience Africa 2024, where the best is yet to come!
