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The Global Beat - June 2025

Date postedJune 9, 2025
Posted By: Blake Mundy Quarterly Newsletter,
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Letter from the Chair
SIBF by the Numbers
SIBF Roundtables
Mexico Briefing: Exploring Opportunity, Identity, and Innovation
Band of SIBF Sisters (BOSS): A Celebration of Sisterhood and the Spirit of the West
SIBF Band of Brothers: Tradition Rolled with Precision, Lit with Purpose
Upcoming Programs
Faces of the Global Network
Membership
Global Network News
Supporters Spotlight


Letter from the Chair
As we hit the midpoint of 2025, I find myself deeply grateful for the energy and engagement I continue to witness across our SIBF community. From energized regional programs to the enthusiasm shared by our newest members, it is clear that our network thrives because of you, our members, and your steadfast commitment to connection, curiosity, and contribution. It has been a dynamic first half of the year. Our strategic planning process is well underway, and I’m excited to share that we’ll be deepening this work during a dedicated strategy session at the Naples Summit this September. With Judy Powell (GA, '18) and Greg Wood (TX, '15), Co-VPs of Strategy, this session will focus on sharpening our strategic vision and ensuring SIBF remains vibrant and relevant in the years ahead.
 
I also want to recognize the incredible success of our member-led regional and state-level programming. These gatherings are not only fostering local connections but also becoming key platforms for leadership development and business collaboration. Hats off to the many state chairs and volunteers who are bringing this vision to life. And speaking of collaboration, our new Roundtables Program is launching its pilot phase this summer. These small-group, topic-focused virtual gatherings (covering themes from private equity to travel and AI) are designed to encourage deeper connections on both personal and professional levels. I encourage everyone to join in.
 
The Annual Report, now live on our member portal, beautifully captures our accomplishments, and I encourage you to review it. It’s not just a summary of where we’ve been, it’s also a valuable tool for recruiting future members who share our values. In addition to the Annual Report, we continue to keep our members informed through this quarterly newsletter, regular internal updates, and an increased focus on our social media presence. As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance communication, we have transitioned from outsourced communications to managing these efforts internally. Blake Mundy, our Director of Communications & Technology, now leads this work with the support of Mary Renfer, our Communications Strategist. This shift enables more streamlined, timely, and authentic engagement across all our channels. And if you’ve not already done so, please jump on your social media accounts and follow SIBF on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.
 
This is also a moment to look forward to: in just a few months we’ll gather for our Summit in Naples. The setting promises sunshine and camaraderie, but more importantly, it will offer the space to reflect, recharge, and recommit to our shared purpose. I can’t wait to see many of you there. Before I close, I want to offer a personal note of thanks. Serving as Chair this year has been a privilege, and I’ve been constantly inspired by the collaborative leadership of our SIBF and GNF Boards and the tireless dedication of our staff. Let’s keep this momentum going. We have big things ahead, and I’m confident we’ll continue to build an SIBF that honors our traditions while embracing innovation and inclusivity.

Best regards,

Tom Bartels (AL, '16)
2025 SIBF Chair



SIBF BY THE NUMBERS

SIBF Business Network: Cross-Industry Leaders with Strong Global Ties
The Society of International Business Fellows (SIBF) stands at the forefront of global leadership, uniting an influential community of visionaries who drive strategic innovation and meaningful impact worldwide. Its diverse membership includes C-level executives, pioneering entrepreneurs, seasoned investors, and respected advisors, who shape decisions across multiple critical industries. Through collaborative dialogue and shared expertise, SIBF members navigate today's complex global landscape and actively contribute to shaping the future of international business.

Membership Composition by Role
The SIBF network represents a group of experienced professionals, with approximately 91% of members occupying executive, entrepreneurial, and (or) board-level positions. These individuals not only lead influential businesses but also advise and shape entire industries and future generations of global leaders. Key membership roles include:

  • C-Level Executives (47.8%): Senior corporate leaders, such as CEOs, CFOs, and COOs, who set organizational vision and global strategy.
  • Founders, Partners & Investors (24.1%): Entrepreneurs and capital partners responsible for launching, scaling, and funding successful ventures.
  • Directors (10.9%): Professionals guiding major business units and critical strategic initiatives.
  • Consultants & Strategic Advisors (6.7%): Trusted experts driving organizational performance, leadership development, and strategic business transformations.
  • Board & Advisory Members (5.9%): Strategic thinkers offering governance, fiduciary oversight, and big-picture perspectives.
  • Other Professionals (4.6%): Experts from law, academia, government, and healthcare who enrich SIBF’s knowledge base and enhance global relevance.

Industry Expertise Breakdown

SIBF members operate across a wide spectrum of industries, fostering valuable cross-sector dialogue and innovation. Notable sectors include:

  • Finance & Investment – 27.2%

  • Technology – 10.5%

  • Legal Services – 9.8%

  • Manufacturing & Industrial – 9.8%

  • Health & Education Services – 8.0%

  • Consulting & Professional Services – 7.5%

Additional representation spans energy and natural resources, public and non-profit sectors, transportation and logistics, real estate and construction, marketing and communications, as well as travel and hospitality.

Global Business Footprint

SIBF has a significant membership base in the United States and is also expanding its reach to include a growing number of members from Mexico and Canada through SIBF's North America Leadership Alliance (NALA), whose graduates become SIBF members.

SIBF maintains strong international relationships and strategic connections through the Global Network academies, including the Central Eurasia Leadership Alliance (CELA), Middle East Leadership Association (Mela), and South East Asia Leadership Academy (SEALA).

In addition to these global ties, SIBF North America members maintain a strong international footprint, cultivated through their companies, investments, and influence. Their reach extends to over 150 countries, reflecting sustained engagement and a strategic global presence.

While North America, particularly the US, Canada, and Mexico remains a strong base, members also report significant engagement in key global hubs like the UK, India, China, Japan, Germany, France, and Spain. Presence spans major economies across Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. Countries such as Brazil, South Korea, Australia, Switzerland, South Africa, and the UAE are growing strategic centers, while emerging markets and smaller nations, from Rwanda to the Cayman Islands, highlight the wide reach of members’ investments and influence.
SIBF is a dynamic community of global leaders who value continuous learning, collaborative leadership, and the expansion of global perspectives. Through a wide range of virtual, local, national, and international programs, members engage meaningfully by sharing best practices, deepening their expertise, and navigating the complexities of global business environments.

Beyond conventional networking, SIBF fosters lasting relationships built on mutual trust, intellectual curiosity, and both professional and personal growth. Members actively leverage these connections to drive innovation, unlock investment opportunities, and form strategic partnerships that transcend industries and borders.

SIBF ROUNDTABLES

Deep Dives and Big Ideas - High Level Conversations That Move Leaders Forward
We’re excited to introduce SIBF Roundtables, a new member-led initiative designed to bring our network together for focused, short-term online discussion groups. Each Roundtable centers on a specific topic and is moderated by a knowledgeable member who guides the conversation and encourages candid, peer-driven dialogue. These sessions are designed for SIBF members who want to explore timely issues, exchange real-world insights, and challenge their thinking in a trusted, small-group setting. Whether you're diving into a professional interest or exploring a personal passion, Roundtables offer a space to discuss, learn, and grow alongside fellow leaders.

Initial topics include:

We’re opening this program with a preliminary rollout to gather feedback and interest, with a full launch planned for the SIBF Annual Summit. More topics and sessions will follow based on member engagement.

Explore topics. Share your experience. Learn something new.
Click here to learn more!

2025 PROGRAM RECAPS

Mexico Briefing: Exploring Opportunity, Identity, and Innovation
This April, more than 75 SIBF members came together in Mexico for an immersive experience that combined high-level dialogue, cultural discovery, and a deeper understanding of the country’s political and economic landscape. The program began in Mexico City and concluded in the colorful, historic town of San Miguel de Allende.

The program opened with a timely conversation on Mexico’s political future, featuring Luis Rubio, Chairman of México Evalúa. The discussion focused on newly-elected President Claudia Sheinbaum, described by Travis Bembenek of Mexico News Daily as the leader Mexico needs. Bembenek noted Sheinbaum’s historic role as the nation’s first female and first Jewish president and highlighted her remarkable 85 percent approval rating. This session, along with insights from Agustin Barrios Gomez of International Capital Partners on Mexico’s position in the global economy, offered members a clear view of the country’s direction.

Ham Poyner (AL, ’15) noted that “the experiences of Mexico City and San Miguel were outstanding,” and called the student panel at Tec de Monterrey a highlight. “The quality of the students and how articulate they were, was mind-blowing. They were passionate about their chosen careers and focused on making a difference in Mexico.” The panel, moderated by Ulrick Noel (Mexico, ’24), brought together students from both public and private universities to share their hopes and perspectives on the future.

Tim Bednar (TX) described Mexico City as “amazing,” highlighting the parks, museums, and food as standout elements of the visit. He praised the program content as a demonstration of “what a vibrant and exciting time this is for the Mexican people.” Andy Rotenstreich (AL, ’24) echoed this appreciation, calling the program “extremely informative” and noting that it provided him and his wife Susan with “deep insights into a country, culture, and government we previously knew little about.”

Members also heard from a distinguished panel of Mexican business leaders, including Juan Carlos Aguirre of AmveStar Capital, Maria Ariza of BIVA MX, Maria Teresa Arnal of The FutureProof Vision, and Roberto Rocha of VEMO. Moderated by Daniel Tovar Nieto (TX, ’23), the session explored innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment trends shaping the future of Mexican industry. Earlier that morning, Agustin Barrios Gomez outlined compelling demographic shifts and economic trends positioning Mexico as a strategic partner in nearshoring and trade. Throughout the program, members had the opportunity to engage directly with speakers in moderated Q&A sessions, fostering deeper discussion on cross-border business opportunities. 

After several days in the capital city, members traveled to San Miguel de Allende. The transition provided a shift in pace and setting, with free time to explore, an optional walking tour, and curated morning excursions ranging from hiking and cooking to horseback riding and cultural visits. The beauty of San Miguel’s architecture and artistry added a memorable backdrop, and members were welcomed into a festive downtown procession in celebration of Christ. As Ham remarked, “San Miguel was almost like being in Italy.”

The 2025 Mexico Briefing was a powerful reminder of the value of learning in place. From world-class speakers to student insights and cultural immersion, the program offered a comprehensive view of Mexico’s complexity, creativity, and opportunity. Thank you to all who contributed to making it a meaningful and memorable SIBF program.



Band of SIBF Sisters (BOSS): A Celebration of Sisterhood and the Spirit of the West
The 2025 Band of SIBF Sisters (BOSS) brought together women from across the SIBF network for a vibrant and laughter-filled exploration of Fort Worth, Texas. Attendees, both members and spouses, enjoyed a thoughtful blend of cultural experiences, leadership insights, and memorable moments designed to strengthen connections and celebrate the enduring bond among the women of SIBF.

The program began with a deep dive into the pioneering spirit of women in the American West during a tour of the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame. Director Hannah Wilson highlighted stories of trailblazers who redefined what was possible in their time. Attendees heard from Elaine Agather, Chairman of the Dallas Region for JPMorgan Chase. Her candid reflections on leadership, resilience, and relationships was said to be “a powerful business perspective to the day’s programming."


The group toured the Amon Carter Museum of American Art before heading to the Fort Worth Stockyards Rodeo at the historic Cowtown Coliseum. Erin Summe-Whitehead (NY, ’24) captured the heart of the experience, saying, “Attending BOSS was such a refreshing change of pace for me. As a business owner and mom, I am often running around frantically during the day. This was a chance to slow down, meet new friends, enjoy gorgeous art, savor yummy food, and immerse in the bold, beautiful culture of the American West. Plus, the SIBF women know how to have a good time. Yeehaw!”


As the weekend came to a close, the energy and connection among this extraordinary group of women was unmistakable. BOSS has become more than a program. It is a community within a community where the ladies of SIBF come together to laugh without agenda, learn with curiosity, and forge friendships that span industries and geographies. The Band of SIBF Sisters will reunite in Birmingham in 2026, and we hope you will join us for another unforgettable adventure.


SIBF Band of Brothers: Tradition Rolled with Precision, Lit with Purpose

While the Band of SIBF Sisters headed west for their annual gathering, another group set their sights farther south. In February, the Cigar Band of Brothers returned to the Dominican Republic for six days of camaraderie, culture, and craftsmanship. Held across two cities, Santo Domingo and Santiago, the program blended relaxed with behind-the-scenes access to one of the world’s most respected cigar legacies, the Autoro Fuente Cigar Factory.

The group was hosted by Carlito Fuente for an intimate tour of the renowned Arturo Fuente factory and plantation. Attendees learned firsthand about the labor, precision, and passion that go into creating each cigar from curing and rolling to packaging and export. A midday stop at the Cigar Family Foundation offered a meaningful glimpse into the Fuentes’ philanthropic work, including education and community development efforts in the region.

Walt Moore (VA, '18) summed up the experience best: “a great cigar, long to be in a tropical paradise, spending time with your twenty brothers, and sipping the best rum on earth...It doesn’t get better.”

Beyond the culture and the cigars, the Band of Brothers has long supported important charitable causes. Over the years, this dedicated group has contributed to the Cigar Family Charitable Foundation, advancing local education, healthcare, and community projects in the Dominican Republic. 

In a fast-moving world, the Band of Brothers gathering is a rare pause. It is a place where stories are shared without hurry, where quality matters more than speed, and where relationships are built slowly and last well beyond the final toast. 

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

FACES OF THE GLOBAL NETWORK

Jon Joel | NALA Class of 2023 | Toronto, Canada - click here to view his profile
Building Up Globally Through Trust, Preparation, and Engagement

From an engineering background to shaping global business strategy with the Toronto Board of Trade and the World Trade Centre Team, Jon Joel’s professional journey is a story of openness, preparation, and saying yes to new opportunities. 

Jon’s first encounter with international work came just two months into a manufacturing role when his company asked if he’d be willing to manage their operations in Mexico. “Nobody wanted to do the international work,” he recalls. So, Jon was asked to “take on Mexico, the southern U.S., and China.” The shift from engineering and project management to international business development continues to energize him, “there’s no better way to see the world than by meeting people and building out lines of business.”

Jon focuses on helping Canadian companies scale globally, “Our clients are revenue-generating, growth-oriented businesses across various industries with a broad range of clients.” But his work is more than just strategic advice, it’s about provoking deeper thinking. Jon and the World Trade Centre team don’t tell clients what to do, they challenge others to think differently about the details. The most exciting thing for Jon is “coming back with a win because you were thinking differently about something.” This breakthrough happens when clients are open to carving out new pathways because they are perceiving the whole operation or some detail in a new way. 

Jon recalls one project where a client was hitting an impasse to growth and through guided questioning, the client began to think differently, not just about logistics, but about community impact. “He realized how to be most helpful to the people he wanted to serve.” It is vital that clients are aligned with their professional and personal aims. “I care whether they can articulate their values and whether their actions are aligned,” explains Jon. He never places a value judgment on why someone might be doing something, but simply wants to help clients synchronize with their professional and personal aims. 

That alignment process took on a deeper dimension through Jon’s experience with the SIBF NALA Academy. His introduction was serendipitous. A flyer landed on a colleague’s desk, and when that colleague couldn’t attend, Jon took his place. What followed was transformative. “You take a bunch of really great people, break them together hard for a week, and what comes out is something profoundly different.” This changed how Jon sees himself as a leader and how he works with the team at the World Trade Centre. NALA, he says, “helped him ground the powerful emotions of leadership.” He went on to say that “how to channel these emotions in a way that’s constructive is key.” 

Insight hit home midway through the program when he realized that  his “ personal life is guiding his professional path forward.” That moment of clarity was the big takeaway for Jon. It opened new fields of opportunity with what Jon is truly passionate about: “to take something with a heartbeat and scale it in a meaningful way while connecting more Canadian businesses to the rest of the world.”

His advice to new members? “Show up and participate. People in this community want to give, share, and listen. There’s a high level of trust here and it’s not the same if you don’t show up.” For Jon, the real potential for new members and SIBF is with the people. “Keep bringing in interesting people, that’s what makes it work. Programs will evolve, opinions will vary, but it doesn’t matter how great the program is if the people are not there.”

What sets him apart isn’t just his strategic mind or global focus, it’s the way he shows up: with humility, curiosity, and a commitment to help others think more deeply, act more boldly, and lead with greater integrity.

Jocelyn Hunter | SIBF Class of 2022 | Atlanta, Georgia - click here to view her profile
A Curiosity that Crosses Borders

Joining SIBF in 2022, Jocelyn Hunter, Vice President and Deputy General Counsel for The Home Depot, has steadily immersed herself in the rich experiences and global connections that SIBF offers. From her home in Atlanta, Georgia, Jocelyn joined SIBF during a time of significant uncertainty and she exemplifies the tremendous gains we stand to yield when we choose to invest in our personal and professional development even when our environment is challenging. 
 
Jocelyn’s career began with specializing in employment law and over time her responsibilities with the Home Depot expanded to encompass several legal disciplines including: cybersecurity, data privacy, governance, tax, litigation and intellectual property, and currently include a focus on international supply chains and trade. In addition, she also supports the company’s Canadian legal operations, providing strategic oversight to this department. 
Her success in this space is fueled by an innate intellectual curiosity. When Jocelyn encounters a new topic, she wants to learn everything about it. “Stay curious,” she advises, “it’s a dynamic world on a global front, and it’s vital to keep a learning mindset.” She underscores the imperative for professionals entering global work to “build and leverage your other experiences and leadership skill-sets” while always remembering “to take a pause before you act and learn what’s going on in the different spaces you move into.” she says. “Not everything is the same from country to country - laws, cultures, customs, many things are different.”


This thoughtful, globally minded approach plays a critical role in helping professionals navigate global complexities. She sees SIBF as a vital space where professionals can grow their awareness of the world while building lasting, supportive relationships. “SIBF is a group of people dedicated to learning about the larger world together and to fostering friendships and relationships while we do it,” she explains. That unique combination of curiosity, connection, and shared learning makes the organization stand out and offers meaningful support to leaders across industries and career stages. 

Reflecting on her SIBF journey so far, Jocelyn describes each event she’s attended as “very informative and meaningful,” highlighting the high caliber of speakers. For her, the real value lies in the opportunity to “learn with friends.” She’s inspired by the “amazing people” within the SIBF community and is particularly encouraged by the organization’s potential to impact youth. “Educating and preparing young leaders,” she notes, “is another powerful way the potential for SIBF continues to grow.” She is also inspired by the SIBF community and the capacity for members to share the incredible work being done with others.

“The magic of SIBF,” Jocelyn concludes, “is in the people you meet, the perspectives you gain, and the opportunities and relationships that would never occur if SIBF did not exist.” Jocelyn embodies the thoughtful and inquisitive spirit of SIBF through her commitment to continue to learn and grow both within her professional sphere and beyond it. In a world that is rapidly changing, Jocelyn’s leadership, global insight, and curiosity remind us of the power that is latent within cultivating meaningful connections across borders. We celebrate her many contributions and are proud to have her as a valued member of SIBF.

Rashid Al Kindi | Mela 15 | Muscat, Oman - click here to view his profile
Grounded in Purpose, Soaring Toward Impact

With over 20 years of experience in safety, quality, operations, engineering, and training in the aviation sector, Mela proudly recognized Rashid Al Kindi as this year’s Mela Board Representative. Rashid currently serves as Deputy Director of Safety and Quality Operations at Royal Flight Oman, where he oversees aviation safety standards, leads audits and risk assessments, and directs safety investigations. His previous roles at Royal Flight Oman include Maintenance Engineers Training Principal and Supervisor of Safety and Quality Operations.

As a highly skilled leader, Rashid brings deep expertise in aircraft maintenance, accident investigation, and project management. He holds a Master of Science in Aircraft Maintenance Management and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). Beyond his operational excellence, he serves as a Board Member of the Aeronautical Industrial Advisory Board at Military Technology College Oman and a Subject Matter Expert at the Oman Transportation Safety Board.

Rashid’s leadership extends beyond technical proficiency. Through his experiences working with people from diverse backgrounds, he emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness and mutual respect. “Everybody comes with different perspectives about leadership,” he reflects, “but it’s also about life and how we see and understand people.” He went on to say, “the Mela program opens us to these perspectives. Every difference an individual brings is respected.”

What Rashid values deeply as a professional and a leader is “the impact you leave in this world.” This vision of legacy, grounded in service and contribution, deeply aligns with Mela’s mission. “Mela is not only about raising your standard in leadership,” he says, “but about knowing the importance of you as a human being and what you leave behind.”

As a board member, Rashid aims to amplify Mela’s global reach and impact. “We need to show the real outcomes to the world. By marketing ourselves better, we can open doors for people to contribute.” He envisions hosting events and seminars that offer members a platform to share their knowledge and experiences. “We can give them a window to share their expertise, and these sessions can add value to Mela.”

Community service has long been central to Rashid’s leadership. “One of the buttons in my lifeline is community work,” he shares. “We tend to give ourselves obstacles regarding serving: “I don’t have time, or I have too many commitments, but we can always make time.” “Helping people shapes how I view my role on the board.”

He is passionate about deepening engagement between SIBF and Mela, “people want to talk, share their successes, we just need to give them the opportunity.” For Rashid, connecting leaders with opportunities to share their own stories and professional insights is a channel for strengthening Mela and reaching out to others who may not be aware of the organization and the impact a global network can have on our professional and personal lives.

Drawing on his years in the aviation field, Rashid explains that “aviation is one of the most highly regulated industries, and that’s precisely what makes it so safe.” Rashid is working towards ensuring the same kind of framework is developed within and among the global networks as a way of allowing members to easily contribute, add value, and develop community. The accessibility of these processes can create pathways into the network that spark connections, creativity, and generate forward momentum.

With a leadership style rooted in humility and the desire to make the world a better place, Rashid brings both awareness and vision to his role. His commitment to empowering others, expanding access, and nurturing future leaders is helping to shape a deeply connected and purposeful community within the global network.

In addition to his work with Mela, Rashid is the Founder and CEO of Phronesis Leadership, a newly established advisory firm focused on cultivating principled leadership and strategic impact. Learn more at www.phronesisleadership.com.

MEMBERSHIP: THE FOUNDATION OF SIBF

Message from VP of Membership - John Irwin (AL, '21)
SIBF thrives when its members take an active role in shaping its future. In the video below, you’ll hear directly  about why recruiting matters, not just for growth but for bringing fresh ideas and energy into our network. This is your organization and your voice plays a role in who joins us next. As you watch, take a moment to consider the role we each play in shaping the future of this organization.


NOMINATE A NEW MEMBER

North America Leadership Alliance (NALA)

We’re thrilled to welcome the 2025 graduates into the SIBF family and excited to continue building on the momentum of this dynamic program. The NALA Academy will return April 19–24, 2026, at the Epicurean Hotel in Midtown Atlanta, for a five-day immersive experience designed for leaders from across the United States, Canada, and Mexico who are ready to take the next step in their leadership journey. Through candid conversation, shared challenges, and cross-border collaboration, participants develop deep personal and professional connections while expanding their strategic networks across industries and sectors.
 
NALA helps identify and engage the next generation of globally minded leaders who are eager to grow within our network. Graduates of the program are invited to join SIBF following completion of the academy.
 
Applicants for membership should meet the following criteria:

  • Ideally fall within the age range of 30-50
  • Must be willing to commit to an “all in” mentality for the entire duration of the NALA program
  • Currently or formerly in a leadership position in a company with international business responsibility, or an organization that is international in scope or increasing its international presence
  • Character and integrity must be beyond question
  • Interested in taking part in a global network
  • Are comfortable conversing and learning in English

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE


A Special Thanks to Our Members
Thank you to everyone for the overwhelmingly positive response to this year’s new member announcements. Your energy and engagement have made a strong impression, not just on the Class of 2025 but across the entire network. Taking the time to welcome new members and starting conversations has helped foster the kind of environment that makes SIBF so unique. So, if you see a 2025 new member at an upcoming program, we encourage you to introduce yourself, offer a warm welcome, and take a moment to get to know them. Some of the most valuable relationships begin with an introduction.

CLICK TO VIEW THE CLASS OF 2025 SO FAR

GLOBAL NETWORK NEWS


The CELA Istanbul Briefing, held April 24–27, 2025, drew more than sixty Fellows and guests for three packed days of compelling talks, hands-on workshops, and shared discovery. One afternoon, the group revisited Koç University, home to earlier Academies, for a playful walk down memory lane before evenings spilled into Istanbul’s winding streets. A closing dinner on the Bosphorus turned networking into a celebration as the skyline glided past in lights and music. Relive the atmosphere here:


Next up is the CELA 18 Leadership Academy, scheduled for July 13–24, 2025, at the Graduate School of Business at Nazarbayev University in Astana, Kazakhstan. Recruitment took place from January through May, with seven in-person information sessions held across Central Eurasia and two online forums that welcomed applicants from every corner. More than one hundred people applied; forty-four earned a place after weeks of interviews, reviews, and spirited debate by the Board and country teams. The facilitation team includes two SIBF members new to CELA: Debra Hays and John Whetsell, joining the veteran SIBF team of Meade and Susan Sutterfield, Paulette Pidcock, Bill Starnes, and Susan Simons.

SIBF members interested in facilitating CELA in 2026 can watch the YouTube Q&A with CELA facilitators to learn more about the role, then submit their names for consideration:


In March 2025, CELA launched a monthly series of industry-focused events led by country teams. Each team hosts an online forum featuring an engaging moderator, two expert speakers, and a live Q&A. Afghanistan kicked off the calendar in March followed by Kazakhstan in May. The series continues with Georgia in June, Uzbekistan in September, Armenia in October, and Kyrgyzstan in December, before pausing for the recruitment season. Fellows from all sister networks are invited to join the discussion and contribute to these regionally focused conversations.

In addition, CELA is preparing to continue its cross-network event series this fall. These gatherings will bring together members from all sister networks to explore timely themes and shared interests. We are actively seeking collaborators from across the networks and always welcome exceptional guest speakers for short, focused webinars throughout the year. These initiatives are made possible by the continued generosity of donors across the global network. 

CELA has officially joined TikTok! In addition to our presence on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube, the new TikTok account features spotlight community stories and short highlights from our events. We’re bringing CELA to a whole new young audience.


Save the Date: Mela Anniversary Reunion, November 6-9, 2025
Don't miss the Mela Anniversary Reunion in Dubai, taking place from November 6 to 9, 2025—a milestone gathering celebrating years of transformative leadership across our 47-nation network. This year’s reunion will spotlight the future of leadership through two powerful thematic days: one dedicated to Artificial Intelligence, featuring exclusive sessions by Google and LinkedIn exploring how AI is reshaping business and decision-making; and another focused on Business Expansion in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), connecting members with opportunities, networks, and investor pathways across the region. Set against the dynamic backdrop of Dubai, this four-day experience promises rich learning, strategic networking, and unforgettable cultural exchange. Registration will be open soon on the app.


Mela Celebrates its 15th Anniversary Masterclass in Muscat
The Mela 15 Leadership Masterclass in Muscat was a landmark success, bringing together emerging and established leaders from across 9 countries in the MENA region for a transformative week of leadership development, cultural exchange, and strategic networking. Hosted in the heart of Oman, the program featured immersive learning sessions, simulations, and cross-sector dialogue that empowered participants to elevate their leadership impact. The event received widespread media coverage across radio, print, and digital platforms in Oman and the wider region, spotlighting its regional significance. In the presence of the Mela Oman Chapter, stakeholders and supporters, the Masterclass was further honored by the participation of members of Oman's royal family, reflecting national recognition of Mela's contribution to leadership development and youth empowerment. This edition not only deepened the Mela network’s presence in Oman but also reaffirmed its role as a catalyst for regional collaboration and growth.




Igniting the Next Wave of South East Asian Leaders: SEALA 11 Looks Ahead
SEALA proudly celebrates the newest graduates of the SEALA 11 Academy, held in February 2025 in vibrant Penang, Malaysia. For ten powerful days, this extraordinary cohort immersed themselves in a journey of self-discovery, bold leadership exploration, and authentic connection. Through late-night conversations, shared challenges, and unforgettable breakthroughs, SEALA 11 lived the very essence of values-based leadership, the hallmark of the SEALA experience. But this is just the beginning. SEALA 11 is not only a celebration of what was, it is a launchpad for what is to come. These new alumni now join a powerful network of change-makers across South East Asia and the world, equipped to lead with purpose in an era that urgently needs principled leadership. We are deeply grateful to the SEALA faculty and facilitators whose dedication brought this transformative experience to life. Your work continues to shape the future of the region, one leader at a time.
To the SEALA 11 graduates, congratulations. The path ahead is yours to shape, and we cannot wait to see where you will lead. Watch the celebration video here.


Imagining SEALA’s Next Decade: Alumni Lead the Way
After celebrating its first decade of existence last year at the Global Network Summit hosted in Sri Lanka, SEALA alumni from across its eleven Leadership Academies came together online to imagine what the next chapter could and should look like. The SEALA Appreciative Inquiry Summit, held online from March through June 2025, marked a bold first: a four-month co-creation journey guided by the Appreciative Inquiry framework - Define, Discover, Dream, Design, and Destiny. With SEALA alumni serving as both participants and facilitators, this was more than a reflection on the past, it was a catalyst for SEALA’s future. Led by Raheel Waqar (SEALA 2) with support from Bill Starnes (SIBF ’98), the summit activated alumni across the region and around the world. Through a series of four virtual gatherings, participants reconnected with SEALA’s core strengths, envisioned new possibilities, and designed actionable paths forward that they committed to leading. Trained alumni facilitators guided breakout groups to ensure every voice was heard and every idea nurtured. In the final session, teams emerged with 90-day action plans, complete with roles, milestones, and momentum, ushering in what many are calling SEALA 2.0.

Themes included:

  • Engaging the alumni network to deepen connections, expand opportunities, and further enhance our impact
  • Simplifying systems for communication, recruiting, and governance
  • Expanding connections across the broader Global Network

One alumna captured the spirit of the summit: "It was a beautiful experience of co-creating a greater vision for the future.” Born as a leadership experience, SEALA’s future now lies in the hands of those it shaped. And the SEALA community is not just looking back, it is leaning forward.

Looking Ahead: SEALA 12 in Thailand 2026
We are excited to announce that SEALA 12 will take place in Thailand - January 22-31, 2026. As we continue to grow our vibrant network, this next Academy promises another powerful journey of leadership, connection, and transformation. Stay tuned for more details in the coming days.

SUPPORTERS SPOTLIGHT

We are deeply grateful to the generous sponsors, supporters, and donors who help make SIBF’s mission possible. Your contributions strengthen our ability to offer high-impact learning experiences and build global connectivity through exceptional programming. Thank you for your commitment as we continue to grow our reach and impact across regions and generations.

Click Here to View SIBF/GNF Donors

Corporate Sponsors

Click here to contact us about becoming a corporate sponsor.

Thank You for Supporting Annual Giving!
We are grateful to every member who has contributed to this year’s Annual Giving campaign so far. Your generosity helps bridge the gap between membership dues and providing high level educational programming, allowing SIBF to continue delivering high-impact programs and services that help our members connect, engage, and grow.

View the 2025 Annual Giving Donors

If you haven’t had a chance to contribute, we invite you to make a gift to Annual Giving 2025 here:

Give Now

Thank you for being an essential part of the SIBF community!
 
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this newsletter! If you have feedback or want to connect with the SIBF
office, please click here to send us a message.

< SIBF Annual Report - March 2025

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