National Conference 2026

National Conference 2026 — NAfSA
NAfSA National Conference 2026

“The Diaspora Call: Cultivating a Culture of Changemakers”

April 24–25
Washington, D.C.

Two days of keynotes, workshops, breakout sessions, and community — bringing together the African diaspora’s next generation of leaders, advocates, and changemakers.

2
Days
20+
Sessions
50+
Speakers
D.C.
Bloomberg Ctr
Conference begins in
Days
Hours
Mins
Secs
Venue Details
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Bloomberg CenterJohns Hopkins SAIS · Washington, D.C.
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April 24–25, 2026Day 1: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM · Day 2: 9:30 AM – 9:30 PM
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Registration via EventbriteEarly registration recommended — limited seats
About the Conference

Where the diaspora rises.

The 2026 NAfSA National Conference is our boldest gathering yet. Under the theme “The Diaspora Call: Cultivating a Culture of Changemakers,” this two-day event will spark a movement of visionary leadership among young Africans — equipping attendees with the knowledge, skills, and networks to become active changemakers in their communities and across the continent.

Attendees will leave armed with a reimagination of the possibility and power in the Diasporan identity — equipped to challenge narratives, influence decision-makers, and amplify grassroots solutions.

Secure Your Spot →
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Keynotes
High-impact speakers weaving personal narrative, history, and a call to action for diaspora youth.
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Breakout Sessions
15+ focused workshops across advocacy, careers, tech, health, policy, and storytelling.
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Meet the Hill
Policy-focused engagement connecting diaspora youth leaders with Capitol Hill lawmakers.
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Cultural Performances
Spoken word, music, film, and organizational spotlights celebrating diaspora culture.
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Changemakers Luncheon
A live podcast-style conversation with dynamic youth changemakers on Day 2.
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Networking & Reception
An evening entertainment to enjoy our culture with music on Day 2.
15+
Breakout Sessions
2
Keynote Addresses
50+
Speakers & Artists

Don’t miss the diaspora’s biggest student gathering.

Registration is open. Spots are limited — secure your place at the table before it’s gone.

What’s included

  • Full access to both days of programming
  • All keynote sessions and plenary events
  • Choice of 3 breakout sessions per day
  • Breakfast and lunch both days
  • Day 1 evening reception with music & bites
  • Networking with 50+ speakers and leaders
  • Conference materials and resources
Participant Interest Form →
Live Registration — Powered by Eventbrite

Having trouble? Register directly on Eventbrite →

Full Program

Two days of impact.

Day 1 — Friday, April 24
Day 2 — Saturday, April 25
9:00 AM
Registration & Welcome
Registration and Breakfast
Students mix and mingle over light breakfast. Transition to theater at 9:50 AM.
📍 Rome Breezeway1 hr
10:00 AM
Opening Ceremony
Welcome & Opening Ceremony
Welcome from NAfSA leadership (Ken Kungania, Biafra Okoronkwo, Andrea Dongmo-Zebaze), conference organizers, and club presidents.
📍 Theater20 minConfirmed
10:20 AM
Opening Keynote
The Diaspora Call
A high-impact keynote weaving personal narrative, history, and a call to action for diaspora youth leadership. Interactive with live audience participation. Lead candidate: Brian Olemo (Uganda).
📍 Theater30 minConfirmed
10:50 AM
Cultural Moment
Cultural Performance & Organizational Spotlight
Spoken word by Fatima Nkempu (Cameroon) and Jeptha Malelah (Kenya). Film excerpt by Ugonna Njoku. Spotlight on Friends of the Congo, DOWA, and NexoAfrica.
📍 Theater10 minConfirmed
11:00 AM
Learning Session
Diaspora Identity Teach-In
A speaker-led teach-in uncovering the rich history, evolution, and shared experiences of the African diaspora. Live polling + audience reflection prompts. Lead speaker: Semhar Araia (Eritrea).
📍 Theater50 minConfirmed
12:00 PM
Break
Lunch & Musical Interlude
Lunch with saxophone performance by Beluchi Okoronkwo. Separate executive lunch for BSU/ASA E-board members (by invitation, facilitated by Ken Kungania).
📍 Rome Breezeway1 hr
1:10 PM
Panel Discussion
The Role of the BSU/ASA in Changemaking
A reflective dialogue on how Black/African student organizations have driven advocacy, identity, and social change. Panelists: OreOluwa Olarinde (Towson), Efrata Tesfaye (GWU), Alisha Hussain (UMD), Sidoine Bao (Georgetown).
📍 Theater50 minConfirmed
2:05 PM
Breakout Sessions — Choose One
NAfSA Talks Live: Building From Where You Are
Diaspora Youth LeadershipAbigail Ndikum, Mary Abodo, Reanne Olivier · Mod: Monica Gbuchie
Advocating “Back Home” While Living AbroadBashira Okeh, Nyota Babunga, Christina Chilimba · Mod: Innocent Grant
Returning & Reconnecting with the ContinentAjiroghene Uzere, Jeffrey Narko, Ola Erogbogbo, Sylvia Otieno
📍 Breakout Rooms1 hr
3:05 PM
Break
Coffee Break
15 min
3:20 PM
Breakout Sessions — Choose One
Reimagining Our Power: Systems Change as Diaspora Changemakers
Reimagining our GovernmentsBayadir Mohamed-Osman, Emi Mahmoud, Sylvia Rubuye, Deja Petty
Reimagining our CareersJonathan Eigege, Kyla Denwood, Bonnette Ishimwe, Shaffiou Assoumanou
Reimagining our ResourcesNamwezi Batumike, Patrick Namulisa
📍 Breakout Rooms1 hr
4:25 PM
Interactive Session
Middle Ground: Diaspora Edition
Highly interactive facilitated dialogue on the tensions and nuances of diaspora identity. Facilitator: Sylvia Rubuye.
📍 Breakout Rooms35 min
5:05 PM
Closing Ceremony
Fireside: Our Stories, Our Power — Diaspora Storytelling in Action
Multigenerational hot seat featuring Roger Muntu, Dr. David Fakunle, Dr. Kehbuma Langmia, and Barbara Shaibu. Moderated by Biafra Okoronkwo.
📍 Theater55 minConfirmed
9:30 AM
Registration & Welcome
Registration and Breakfast
📍 2nd Floor Hallway30 min
10:00 AM
Day Opening
Day 2 Opening & Recap
Recap of Day 1 insights, Day 2 overview, and sharing data from the Hot Takes activity.
📍 Theater20 min
10:20 AM
Skills-Building Workshop
Diaspora Advocacy Workshop
A hands-on workshop led by DAPI alumni and seasoned advocates, offering practical skills for engaging policymakers at local, national, and international levels.
1 hrSpeakers TBD
11:20 AM
Cultural Moment
Cultural Performance — Spoken Word
Jeptha Malelah (Kenya) spoken word, or APN Promo — Borderless Movement.
10 minConfirmed
11:30 AM
Policy Engagement
Diaspora Youth Meets the Hill
A policy-focused engagement connecting youth leaders with lawmakers to discuss representation, advocacy, and the diaspora’s role in shaping global agendas.
1 hr 25 minSpeakers TBD
1:00 PM
Changemakers Luncheon
Live Podcast: Changemakers in Conversation
A live podcast-style conversation featuring Lual Mayen (South Sudan) and Naomi Inegbenedion (Nigeria). Exploring their journeys, lessons, and impact across the diaspora. Possible symbolic award presentation.
📍 Dining Area1 hrConfirmed
2:10 PM
Breakout Sessions — Choose One
Visualizing Our Impact: Diaspora Changemaking Across Sectors
Beyond Aid: Global Health SystemsJonta Kamara, Ezinne Aso, Dr. Eman Salih, Desmond Tanko Jumbam
Next-Gen African Tech & AITopaz Mukulu, George Kabila Bauer, Judith Mwaya
Diaspora Influence in Policy & GovernanceYassine Fathalli, Yovela Debesay, Nehemia Abel
📍 Breakout Rooms1 hr
3:15 PM
Breakout Sessions — Choose One
The Changemaker Toolkit: Practical Skills for Diaspora Leaders
Digital Advocacy & Systems ThinkingFacilitator: Biafra Okoronkwo
Community Organizing & Movement BuildingFrance Elvie-Banda, Jessica Kanya-Ngambi, Bertha Nibigira, Tangi Bukasa
Storytelling for ImpactDeShuna Spencer, Amjed Osman, Adedayo Fashanu · Mod: Ugonna Njoku
📍 Breakout Rooms1 hr
4:15 PM
Break
Coffee Break
15 min
4:30 PM
Breakout Sessions — Choose One
Changemaking in Practice: Turning Ideas into Impact
Funding Your IdeaJemimah Orevaoghene, Boum III Jr, Afua Gyabaah, Amjed Osman
Building Strategic PartnershipsFaduma-Dhool Mohamed, Lisa Irambona, Brian Kwesiga
Scaling Your VisionTosin Durotoye, Jennie Nwokoye, Akunna Cook, Shadrack Frimpong · Mod: Simon Patrick Obi
📍 Breakout Rooms1 hr
5:35 PM
Closing Keynote & Ceremony
Closing Fireside & Keynote
20-minute closing keynote + fireside + closing ceremony. Invited speakers: Hon. Chernor Bah (Minister, Sierra Leone), Chinasa Okolo (AI & Diaspora Identity), OSAA, African Union.
📍 Theater35–55 minConfirmed
9:00 PM
Evening Event
After Party at The Continent
Celebration and networking. Potential discount for conference attendees. Get your Ticket Now!
📍 Washington, D.C.2.5 hrsDetails on the Link
Featured Speakers

Voices that move.

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See our list of our amazing speakers below.

Meet the Speakers

Confirmed & Featured Speakers

Melvin P. Foote — Keynote Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Brian M. Kwesiga — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Semhar Araia — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Ore Olarinde — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Innocent Grant — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Amb. Sheku Foreyoh — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Dr. Chidubem D. Gbujie — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Dr. Kehbuma Langmia — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Shaffiou Assoumanou — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Abigail Ndikum — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Reanne Olivier — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Sewa M. Gunn — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Ericka Tenta — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Ola Erogbogbo — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Sylvia Otieno — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Sylvia Rubuye — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Kyla Denwood — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Jonta Kamara — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Selma Ndi — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Yovela Debesay — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Isabella Carvalho — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Jennie Nwokoye — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Tope Fajingbesi — Speaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Fatima Ameaka Nkempu — Artist, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Jeptha Oketch Malelah — Artist, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Ugonna Njoku — Moderator & Filmmaker, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Dr. Kehbuma Langmia — Fireside Day 1 Closing, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Brian M. Kwesiga — Building Strategic Partnerships, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Amb. Sheku Foreyoh — Building Strategic Partnerships, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Dr. Chidubem D. Gbujie — Diaspora Youth Leadership, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Shaffiou Assoumanou — Diaspora Advocacy in Action, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Innocent Grant — Global Health Systems, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Reanne Olivier — Diaspora Youth Leadership, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Sewa M. Gunn — Advocating Back Home, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Ola Erogbogbo — Returning and Reconnecting, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Sylvia Rubuye — Reimagining Our Governments, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Kyla Denwood — Reimagining Our Careers, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Jonta Kamara — Global Health Systems, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Selma Ndi — Next-Gen African Tech, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Sylvia Otieno — Returning and Reconnecting, NAfSA Conference 2026
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Yovela Debesay — Diaspora Influence in Policy, NAfSA Conference 2026
View →
Jennie Nwokoye — Scaling Your Vision, NAfSA Conference 2026
View →
Tope Fajingbesi — Funding Your Idea, NAfSA Conference 2026
View →
Location

Bloomberg Center,
Washington D.C.

Hosted at Johns Hopkins University’s SAIS Bloomberg Center — steps from Capitol Hill and the seat of global policy. An intentional choice for a conference built on advocacy and changemaking.

🗺️
Bloomberg Center · 555 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington DC 20001
Open in Google Maps →
Primary Venue
Bloomberg Center
Johns Hopkins University · School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) · 555 Pennsylvania Ave NW · Washington, D.C. 20001
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TheaterKeynotes, plenary sessions, opening & closing ceremonies
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Rome BreezewayRegistration, meals, and Day 1 evening reception
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Breakout RoomsConcurrent sessions for 15+ workshops
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Getting ThereDupont Circle Metro (Red Line) · 5-minute walk
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Nearby HotelsEmbassy Row & Dupont Circle within walking distance
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AirportsDCA (30 min) · IAD (45 min) · BWI (45 min)
Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know.

Who can attend?
The conference is open to all African diaspora students, professionals, and allies passionate about Africa’s future. NAfSA membership is not required to attend, though it is free and provides year-round benefits.
How do I register?
Register via Eventbrite at nationalconf.eventbrite.com. You can also fill out the Participant Interest Form to receive updates. Early registration is strongly recommended as seats are limited.
Where exactly is the conference?
Bloomberg Center, Johns Hopkins University SAIS, 1717 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington D.C. The nearest Metro station is Dupont Circle on the Red Line, approximately a 5-minute walk away.
Are meals provided?
Yes — breakfast and lunch are included both days. A light reception with refreshments is included on Day 1 evening. The Day 2 after party at The Continent is a separate event.
How do breakout sessions work?
Each breakout slot offers 3 concurrent sessions — you choose one to attend. There are 3 breakout slots per day (6 total over both days), giving you 6 focused sessions on topics including leadership, advocacy, tech, health, policy, and storytelling.
Are accommodations included?
Accommodations are not included. We recommend the Dupont Circle or Embassy Row neighborhood for walking-distance access to the venue. A list of nearby hotel recommendations will be shared closer to the event.
Can our organization become a sponsor?
Yes! Several sponsorship tiers are available. Email donate@nationalafsa.org for the sponsorship packet.
Will sessions be recorded?
Select sessions may be recorded for post-event distribution to NAfSA members. Details on virtual access will be communicated closer to the event. We encourage in-person attendance for the full experience.