The Global Beat - November 2025

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Letter from the Chair
2026 SIBF Officers
Meet Your Chair
Program Recaps
Member Award Winners
New Webinar Archives
Upcoming Programs
Faces of the Global Network
SIBF Initiatives
Global Network News
Supporters Spotlight

Letter from the Chair

As we approach the end of 2025, I am filled with gratitude and pride for all that our SIBF community has accomplished this year. From the success of our programs to the energy and inspiration of the 2025 Naples Summit, this has been a year defined by connection, collaboration, and purpose. The Summit once again reflected the very best of SIBF, a global network of leaders united by curiosity, generosity, and a shared commitment to lifelong learning, as well as personal and professional growth.

Our continued success is driven by the dedication and engagement of our members. I extend my sincere thanks to the Membership Committee for their commitment to growing our community and strengthening engagement across the network. I also want to recognize the NALA Committee for assembling an outstanding 2025 Class, whose talent, energy, and enthusiasm continue to elevate our organization. In addition, our Onboarding Group has played an essential role in welcoming new members and ensuring they are immediately connected to the broader SIBF community.

This year also marked the successful launch of our SIBF Roundtables, a program created to bring members together in small, topic-focused groups to exchange ideas, share experiences, and gain insights from peers. These dynamic discussions have quickly become a valuable space for professional learning and global connection, embodying the spirit of collaboration that defines SIBF.

In the area of fund development, we have continued to see the power of generosity at work. Our sponsors and supporters play an essential role in advancing our mission, enabling us to offer transformative programs and leadership opportunities. I extend heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their continued partnership and belief in SIBF’s vision.

Our communications efforts have also continued to strengthen, guided by a focus on transparency, timeliness, and engagement. Through expanded social media outreach, consistent newsletters, and the publication of our comprehensive Annual Report, we have enhanced our ability to share our story and keep members informed, inspired, and connected.

Financially, SIBF remains strong and stable, supported by sound governance and careful stewardship. This continued focus ensures that we remain well-positioned to serve our members and expand our impact in the years ahead. The upcoming Annual Report will include detailed financial reporting and program highlights that reflect our ongoing commitment to transparency, responsible management, and the sustainable growth of our organization.

As we look ahead to 2026, we do so with confidence and excitement. The coming year will build upon the momentum we have created, deepening our impact through innovation, inclusivity, and global collaboration. Together, we will continue to strengthen SIBF’s foundation while shaping its future.

It has been an honor to serve as Chair and to witness the dedication, generosity, and leadership of our volunteers and staff that make this organization so extraordinary. Thank you for your continued engagement and support as we move forward into another promising year.

Best regards,

Tom Bartels (AL, '16)
2025 SIBF Chair

2026 SIBF OFFICERS

At the SIBF Annual Summit, members elected new officers for the coming year. These leaders bring valuable experience and a clear commitment to advancing the mission of SIBF. Their leadership will guide strategic growth, strengthen member engagement, and support initiatives across the global network. We congratulate the newly elected officers and look forward to the vision and momentum they will bring in the year ahead.



MEET YOUR 2026 SIBF CHAIR

Judy Powell | Class of 2018 | Atlanta, Georgia - click here to view her profile
When you sit down with Judy Powell, she is unhurried in the best sense of the word. She listens before she answers. She notices the room, the person in front of her, the layers of a question. It is a habit formed over decades of legal practice and a lifetime of travel, and it is the quality she brings now to her newest role: Chair of SIBF. Before agendas and initiatives, there is attention. Before strategy, there is curiosity. Powell’s leadership begins, as her life often has, with listening.

A native of Knoxville, Tennessee, Judy received her B.A. in Political Science from Emory University and her J.D. from Vanderbilt Law School. She practiced law for more than forty years with Kilpatrick Townsend in Atlanta before retiring about eighteen months ago. Today, she enjoys the freedom of retirement and extra time with family, friends, and thankfully SIBF.

It took four years to get her to join the organization, but the persistence was worth it. She first learned of SIBF early in her career and officially joined in 2018, thoughtfully anticipating the time she would have to invest as retirement approached. Since then, her involvement has been wholehearted.

Judy has traveled extensively. One of her most memorable adventures was a ten-day hike across Patagonia, followed by an archaeological dig in Tuscany. Out of the seven safaris she has taken, the sea safari in the Arctic stands out as unforgettable. Yet, as Judy explains, “it’s hard to place one trip as a more thrilling experience over another. Each place has its own unique set of characteristics that awakens us to the beauty of creation.” Travel has shaped Judy’s global perspective, both personally and professionally. Three experiences, in particular, inform her outlook.

The first was in 1994, when she was chosen for a Rotary International Goodwill Exchange Trip. Spending six weeks in Argentina, she lived in people’s homes and had “the great privilege of meeting government officials, business leaders from across different industries and various countries.” Judy recalls how “they so profoundly appreciated that I was speaking their language instead of English,” and how the trip “really opened my eyes to the difficulties that other businesses can face in their environments that are very different from ours.”

She observed that “even excellent businesses had highly limited opportunity to obtain credit in order to expand and grow their businesses.” For Judy, this illuminated the need for awareness of differing environments, an awareness only possible through listening. “Listening is key to understanding the needs of others and fostering those inner resources that are required first, before other resources can be brought in, in a way that is truly effective.”


This awareness proved invaluable when she assisted businesses coming to Atlanta during the 1996 Olympics. “I really discovered the importance of having an appreciation for the context in which someone is operating, the context of their mindset, so that I could be a good facilitator of the business interactions.” She adds, “I learned to ask more questions, but even more importantly to truly hear what people were saying so that I could understand their needs.” Judy reminds us that “being able to meet the needs of others, professionally and personally, is dependent upon our ability to slow down and listen.”

Another defining influence came in the mid-1990s when Judy began what she calls “true adventure travel.” Through experiences across many countries, she realized that “we all have greater similarities, no matter the differences in religion, culture, national history, government, and political views.” She reflects, “everybody wants to be respected and wants to be heard, and everybody wants a better world for their children.” Integrity, honesty, respect, faith, and servant leadership anchor Judy’s core values, all nurtured through her practice of listening.

While Judy’s family remains central, she also treasures being “an honorary aunt and a godmother to a number of other children and young adults and bringing them along and supporting them in their activities and having fun with them.” Mentorship continues to guide her, as she observes that “at this point in my life, I continue to mentor the young people I brought along behind me at my law firm and I still am in touch with them.” She also finds peace in nature. “Spending time in nature is restorative. And I love being in the outdoors.”

As Chair, Judy’s vision for SIBF is shaped by three words: engage, encourage, and energize. She hopes members “fully appreciate the benefits of the relationships and the connections that SIBF has to offer.” Her encouragement is simple: “Jump in. The more time you spend with members, the greater the benefits, not only in your business, but they also ultimately lead to deep friendships.”

She is particularly excited about the deeper relationships she has seen cultivated among the sister networks. “SIBF truly has the potential to help bring the world closer together, one relationship, one connection, one transaction, and one interaction at a time.” In Judy’s view, that is the promise and the charge of SIBF: to engage with intention, encourage one another generously, and energize the work of building trust across borders. Under her leadership as Chair, that vision becomes an invitation to every member to participate fully, listen deeply, and turn relationships into lasting impact.

ANNUAL REPORT

In January we will release the 2025 SIBF Annual Report. This publication is a reflection of our shared progress as a global community of leaders. As we prepare the upcoming edition, we invite your input. Are there stories, program highlights, regional initiatives, or achievements you would like to see featured? Your perspective matters and will help us showcase the depth and reach of our network. Please use the link below to share your suggestions.

Help us shape the story of SIBF

2025 PROGRAM RECAPS

Cleveland Briefing: How a City Rediscovers Its Voice Through Art and Enterprise
There are cities whose stories are told in beats, brushstrokes, and brickwork, and Cleveland is one of them. This June, SIBF members gathered in Cleveland for a program that felt less like a briefing and more like a dialogue between art, industry, and renewal. From the first afternoon at Key Tower, Baiju Shah, President and CEO of the Greater Cleveland Partnership, set the tone with reflections on the city’s economic transformation and civic pride. That evening, the Union Club, a landmark rich in history and influence, offered a fitting stage for conversation and connection, with music by Cleveland’s own Hayden Grove.


The days that followed revealed a city alive with culture and character. President & CEO of Playhouse Square, Craig Hassall, shared how the performing arts helped revitalize downtown. Members explored the magnificent Severance Music Center, where André Gremillet of The Cleveland Orchestra discussed the balance between artistry and business that sustains world-class performance. At the Cleveland Museum of Art, Andria Derstine guided members through collections that reflect both the city’s legacy and its forward vision. From the history of Lakeview Cemetery to the rhythm of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the weekend wove together culture and community. Members explored the West Side Market, wandered the lakeshore at Edgewater Park, and met local leaders who embody Cleveland’s spirit of progress.

As Eva Neumann (NC, '23) shared, “I very much enjoyed the conference, the fellowship, the speakers, the venue, and the meals last week. Kudos to all of you for pulling off another stellar SIBF event!” 

In every hall and neighborhood, Cleveland revealed itself not just as a destination but as a story of resilience and reinvention, an ideal reflection of the spirit of SIBF.

Cambridge Young Adults Summer Program: Exploring Ethics, Innovation, and the World Ahead
Each summer, the Cambridge Young Adults Program gathers a remarkable group of emerging leaders for an experience that blends intellectual discovery with personal growth. Set within the historic walls of Clare College, the 2025 program invited participants to explore themes of money, ethics, and responsibility through lectures and real-world reflection.

Led by distinguished Cambridge scholars and SIBF members, sessions prompted participants to think deeply about how values shape decision-making and leadership. Dr. Jerry Toner examined the ethics of wealth and lessons from Roman history, while Professor Alasdair Coles explored the relationship between neuroscience and free will. Sir Laurie Bristow, former UK Ambassador to Russia and Afghanistan, shared insight into global diplomacy, and Professor Per Ola Kristensson discussed artificial intelligence as an evolving design discipline.

Beyond the lecture halls, Cambridge itself became part of the learning experience. Participants visited the Wren Library to view rare manuscripts, reflected at the American Cemetery, and toured King’s College Chapel. The week concluded with an outdoor performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at St. John’s College, a fitting close to a week defined by curiosity and shared experiences.


As one participant reflected, “I absolutely loved this course and enjoyed the people I met and connected with most of all. It was definitely out of my comfort zone, but I think this is a great opportunity for young adults to get exposed to. I loved evenings and activities that we did.”

By week’s end, the program had evolved into more than an academic exploration. It became a lesson in perspective, confidence, and the lifelong value of learning together.

SIBF Annual Summit: The Evolving Intersection of Health, Innovation, and Global Leadership
Ideas took center stage in Naples as members from across the globe gathered for the 2025 SIBF Annual Summit. The atmosphere was one of engagement and exchange, where conversations stretched beyond industries and borders to explore how leadership, innovation, and global perspective can shape a better future.

The Summit opened with a powerful keynote discussion between Raj Shah, President of The Rockefeller Foundation, and moderator Palmer Garson (VA, '10). Shah shared how data, technology, and targeted investment are transforming global development and health outcomes. His insights, drawn from years of leading complex international initiatives, offered a reminder of how meaningful change often begins with collaboration and bold ideas.


Holly Ransom, CEO of Emergent Global, followed with an engaging session on leading in a technology-driven world. She emphasized the importance of balancing progress with empathy, reminding attendees that adaptability and purpose are the true hallmarks of effective leadership. Later, Ransom returned to moderate a fireside conversation with global economist and author Baroness Dambisa Moyo (pictured above), who examined the economic, political, and social trends influencing today’s business environment. Together, they delivered an illuminating discussion on resilience and decision-making in a time of global transition.

An afternoon session on the “Big Beautiful Bill” brought the conversation closer to home. SIBF members Bill Sharp (GA, '85) and Chip Cottrell (ME, '05) unpacked the implications of the new charitable tax legislation, offering practical insights on how the changes may impact philanthropy, nonprofit strategy, and individual giving.

Saturday turned the focus toward science and innovation. Dr. Charles Bruce, Chief Innovation Officer at the Mayo Clinic, outlined how infrastructure and technology are reshaping healthcare delivery. Dr. David Agus, Founding Director of the Ellison Institute of Technology, then explored how artificial intelligence and data are revolutionizing medicine, offering a glimpse into the future of patient care and discovery.

Throughout the Summit, members exchanged ideas, shared experiences, and strengthened relationships that define SIBF. The program concluded with the Annual Business Meeting and Member Awards, celebrating leaders whose contributions embody the organization’s mission and values.

As we reflect on another remarkable gathering of minds and friends, we carry forward the ideas, inspiration, and connections that define SIBF at its best. We look forward to seeing you in Nashville, October 4–7, 2026!

2025 Member Awards
Each year, SIBF recognizes members for their contributions to the organization and their communities.  At the Annual Summit, 6 members were celebrated for their impact.  From internal leadership and mentoring to entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavors, these members exemplify our organization’s mission.

Allan J. McDonald Entrepreneur Award: Billy Harbert (AL, ‘96)
This award recognizes members who embody extraordinary vision, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit, much like the award’s namesake. Billy has carried forward a legacy built with his father, working side by side for more than 30 years, sharing a passion for international construction, culture, and travel. Under his leadership, B.L. Harbert International has become one of the world’s leading builders of U.S. Embassies and Consulates, completing more than 70 worldwide. His story is one of family, collaboration, and vision, and we are proud to honor him with this award.

James D. Cockman Humanitarian Award: Bobby Newman (FL, '12)
Bobby Newman embodies this award through his leadership of the Cigar Family Charitable Foundation, created after witnessing children in the Dominican Republic eager to learn but without access to proper classrooms. What began as a small effort to expand a school has grown into a 23-acre campus with schools, a health center, and facilities that serve thousands of families in Bonao’s poorest communities. Guided by compassion and vision, Bobby and his family ensure that every dollar raised goes directly to the children they serve. His dedication continues to change lives one child at a time.

J. Carroll Rushing Recruitment Award: Daniel Tovar Nieto (TX, ‘23) & Leonardo González (TX, ‘18)
Presented annually to recognize exceptional dedication to recruitment and membership excellence, this award honors those who secure SIBF’s legacy by attracting outstanding business leaders to our organization. This year’s recipients, Daniel Tovar Nieto and Leonardo Gonzalez, have been instrumental in strengthening SIBF’s presence in Mexico through their leadership in the North America Leadership Alliance (NALA). Their efforts have expanded membership, fostered cultural exchange, and deepened collaboration. across borders. Drawing on deep cultural roots and personal experience, Daniel and Leonardo have fostered growth and connection across Mexico, proving that shared vision yields lasting impact.

Spirit of SIBF Award: Susan & Tom O’Hanlan (SC, ‘99)
The Spirit of SIBF Award recognizes members who infuse energy into the organization, deliver outstanding results, and set an inspiring example for others. Susan and Tom O’Hanlan have embodied these qualities for more than 25 years, contributing to SIBF with unwavering enthusiasm and dedication. From hosting programs and supporting organizational initiatives to recruiting and mentoring new members, their impact reaches every corner of our community. Often working quietly behind the scenes, they provide the encouragement, resources, and generosity that strengthen SIBF from within. 

Mentor Award: Marion Smith (CA, ‘09)
This award recognizes a long-standing SIBF member who has accepted indirect or unofficial leadership roles in order to support SIBF members. Mentors are vital to our success, providing the voice of experience and the extended circle of acquaintance that is often critical to the success of new leaders. Marion Smith exemplifies this through his tireless commitment to the NALA Academy and his thoughtful mentorship. With patience, insight, and genuine care, he has helped countless members grow in confidence and purpose. His wisdom continues to guide the next generation, leaving a lasting legacy that strengthens SIBF at its core.

Newcomer Award: Erin Summe-Whitehead (NY, ‘24)
The Newcomer Award celebrates a member who, within their first year, has shown remarkable enthusiasm and engagement in every aspect of SIBF life. Erin Summe-Whitehead embodies this spirit through her energy, generosity, and commitment to building community. Since joining, she has championed new member recruitment, nominated exceptional candidates to the NALA Academy, and warmly opened her home for events that bring members together. Erin’s positivity and initiative have quickly made her an integral part of SIBF, helping to shape New York City into a vibrant center of connection and growth.


Fellows’ International Conference New Zealand: Perspectives at the Edge of the World
The 2025 Fellows’ International Conference took members to New Zealand for a week of learning, exploration, and meaningful conversation. Over six days, the program moved from the urban energy of Auckland to the quiet majesty of Taupō and Queenstown, offering new ways to see leadership and culture in action.

In Auckland, members met with economists, policymakers, and cultural leaders who offered fresh insight into the nation’s role in the global economy and the influence of Māori heritage on modern life. The afternoon sailing challenge on America’s Cup yachts added an unexpected lesson in teamwork and shared purpose that stayed with many throughout the week.

As the journey continued through the North Island, participants deepened their understanding of New Zealand’s identity. At Te Pā Tū in Rotorua, they experienced Māori storytelling and tradition firsthand. Later in Taupō, journalist Mike McRoberts spoke about authenticity and courage in media, prompting reflection on how narrative shapes perception and truth. Each day offered a new way to think about leadership and community in a changing world.

Queenstown brought the conference to a close amid the beauty of Fiordland and Lake Wakatipu. The pace slowed, giving time to enjoy the landscape, reconnect with fellow members, and consider the meaning of what had been learned together.


Tanveer Patel (AL, '11) reflected, “Traveling without my husband, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but you all made this journey so incredibly special. I never once felt like I was traveling alone. My family was so happy knowing I was safe with such a great group of people; that trust is so important. I felt very at home with all of you, and I would do this again in a heartbeat.”

The New Zealand program reminded everyone that discovery is not only about place or knowledge. It is about the people who travel beside us and the shared experiences that turn learning into lasting connection.

The Silicon Valley Business Forum: Rethinking Leadership in the Age of Intelligent Systems
In a region known for shaping the modern world, SIBF members convened to examine how technology continues to redefine the pace and practice of business. The 2025 Business Forum brought together executives, entrepreneurs, and investors for a concentrated look at innovation in motion, exploring how automation, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing are reshaping industries and influencing global strategy.

Surrounded by the world’s leading technology ecosystem, participants examined the forces driving transformation across industries, from automation and artificial intelligence to next-generation manufacturing and biotechnology. Rod Copes, former COO of Rivian, shared insights on the new era of American manufacturing, emphasizing how automation, sustainability, and supply chain reinvention are reshaping industrial strategy. Discussions on robotics and automation followed, with leaders from emerging technology companies outlining how intelligent systems are moving beyond factories into healthcare, logistics, and consumer applications.


A recurring theme throughout the program was how innovation thrives amid volatility. Entrepreneurs and investors discussed navigating shifting markets and rising geopolitical risk while continuing to fund and scale new ventures. In a related session, Igor Jablokov (NC, '24) Chairman of Pryon, addressed the role of trust in artificial intelligence, urging companies to approach adoption with accountability and transparency. The forum also looked ahead to the next horizon of technology. Conversations on quantum computing, synthetic biology, and space exploration challenged members to think beyond current capabilities and consider where future disruption will emerge. Kanwal Rekhi of Inventus Capital Partners offered perspective on how technology continues to connect a deglobalizing world, while Debra Hays (AL, '22) of Concert IDC led an exploration of how AI, genomics, and data science are transforming the healthcare landscape.

The program concluded at the Computer History Museum, where Dileep George of DeepMind and Mark Platshon of Redwoods Climate Capital discussed the role of AI in advancing both human understanding and sustainable innovation.

The Silicon Valley Business Forum captured the pace and ambition of its setting, providing members with a clearer view of how technology and strategic foresight of the decade ahead.

SIBF WEBINAR ARCHIVES

Expanding Knowledge Through SIBF’s Global Virtual Programs
SIBF continues to deliver a robust slate of virtual programming designed to keep members informed, inspired, and connected wherever they are in the world. Through both local and global webinars, members engage directly with business luminaries, geopolitical experts, and thought leaders on topics that span from artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to the war in Ukraine and other global developments shaping our time. Among these offerings, the Cambridge Virtual Series is another exceptional program, featuring professors and academic experts from the renowned SIBF Cambridge Young Adults Program. These sessions offer research-driven insights that help members navigate today’s complex business and geopolitical landscape with clarity and confidence. Now, members can explore the full library of past webinars directly on the SIBF website! Click below to view all SIBF webinars and browse the archives:

VIEW THE WEBINAR ARCHIVES

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

• Cambridge Virtual Series: Energy Storage at a Crossroads - November 10, 2025 - Online

• South East Asia Leadership Academy 12 - January 22-31, 2026

• SOLD OUT - Band of SIBF Sisters (BOSS) - March 20-22, 2026 - Birmingham, Alabama

• SOLD OUT - Brussels Briefing - April 14-18, 2026 - Brussels, Belgium

• North America Leadership Alliance (NALA) - April 19-24, 2026 - Atlanta, Georgia

• Washington Briefing - May 13-15, 2026 - Washington, District of Columbia

• SOLD OUT - FIC Norway - June 7-14, 2026 - Norway

• 2026 SIBF Annual Summit - October 4-7, 2026 - Nashville, Tennessee

2025 Holiday Parties

• California Holiday Party - November 20 - San Francisco, California

• Alabama Holiday Party - December 7 - Birmingham, Alabama

• National Holiday Party - December 11 - Dallas, Texas

• Tennessee Holiday Party - December 16 - Nashville, Tennessee

• Florida Holiday Party - December 17 - Tampa, Florida

FACES OF THE GLOBAL NETWORK

Mand Batdorj | CELA 18 | Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia - click here to view her profile
Empty Your Cup 

One of the newest members of CELA, Mandy Bat, joins the global network with a background that spans corporate business development, a successful tech start-up, and, more recently, executive leadership training. Mandy spent ten years working within some of the largest corporations in Mongolia, her path took a meaningful turn when she became a mother. During this time, she noticed a critical gap in care for expecting mothers in her home country. Mothers have “very limited access to information related to giving birth,” Mandy explains, with language barriers posing one of the early challenges because “credible information,” regarding pregnancy and childbirth, “was only widely available in English.”

With this keen awareness and a strong strategic mindset, Mandy founded her own tech startup, Hello Baby, a mobile application that “helps guide women through such a volatile and vulnerable journey.” Through collaboration with leading doctors and experts, Hello Baby provides far more than a digital tool. It offers expecting mothers a trusted guide and source of emotional reassurance, serving less as technology and more a companion through one of life’s “most vulnerable and transforming experiences.”


After being recommended for five years by a friend who is a member of CELA, Mandy, intrigued by the network, finally attended this year’s CELA Academy. “From day zero we formed a really deep connection with each other.” She insightfully observed that “it is very rare to have this experience in your adult life after you graduate university” because “we bring our titles and our professional lives with us, but in CELA I think people ditch their titles and meet with their authentic selves.” “People really became vulnerable and opened up; sometimes they shared stories that they had never told anyone.” She added, “while it is a leadership accelerator, it has a really profound healing effect.”

Mandy captured the deep sense of empathy that many professionals and leaders long for in their lives. For her, the power of CELA was not only in the stories shared but in the human depth behind them. She described it as “seeing others on their own terms.” As she put it, “we tend to think that my problem is unique, but there you really hear other people and what they have been through.”

Describing her leadership as outcome oriented and almost “commanding,” Mandy shared that when she arrived at CELA, “it really opened” her “heart.” Her international perspective has been profoundly shaped by the many stories entrusted to her during her time at the Academy. Although she initially felt confident in the material, she later realized how transformative the experience would become. Looking back, she recalls initially feeling confident in her understanding of the content before recognizing that much of what they engaged with was new and it reshaped her thinking in lasting ways. “There was a profound change” that happened in CELA, she reflects, one rooted in humility. “Why not deeply care and love each other before making assumptions about each other.” She left CELA with a fresh lens through which she now views the world, a way of seeing and listening from the heart. It helps us “solve problems in a more humane way.”

“What they were facing, what they are lacking is not in themselves. They have this limitless, infinite potential in themselves, but, you know, pursuing an entrepreneurship, a managerial, or, you know, CEO career is a lonely thing to do.” This insight has shaped Mandy’s mission going forward. It is because of this that Mandy is looking forward to helping others “really manage mindsets and how to transform limiting beliefs to meet your true potential.” Looking ahead, Mandy shares her vision for CELA’s future. “I would love to see CELA evolve into more of an interconnected ecosystem” with a “laboratory for regional collaboration.” Mandy sees this as an opportunity where “shared projects can ripple across Central Asia and across the globe.”

When asked what advice she would offer future participants, Mandy’s message is simple yet profound. “I would say, leave your titles and show up with the world as you are.” There is a well known saying in Mongolia that has helped Mandy calibrate her own compass in business and leadership: empty your cup. As Mandy reminds us, “We have all heard about what to learn, but what about what not to learn, what to abandon.” In that deliberate act of unlearning, she believes, true leadership begins.

SIBF INITIATIVES

North America Leadership Alliance (NALA)
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

SIBF Roundtables - High Level Conversations That Move Leaders Forward
Roundtables are 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 included:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Public Markets & Fundamental Investing
• Options Trading
• Private Equity
• Wine People & Wine Things
• Women in Small Business

There has already been an initial soft launch of the first set of Roundtables and they are currently at capacity. Here is where you come in! We’re planning a new batch of Roundtable topics, and we’d love to hear your ideas. Roundtables can be either professional or personal, if there’s something you’re passionate about or you’d like to explore with others, let us know. We’re also looking for members interested in moderating a roundtable. Your insights and leadership will help shape the conversations that follow. Click below to suggest a topic or volunteer to moderate.

ROUNDTABLE SUGGESTION FORM

The Global Network Ambassador Program
The Global Network Ambassador Program is a member-driven initiative created to strengthen meaningful connections across the global SIBF community. Designed in response to feedback from our international networks in CELA, Mela, and SEALA, the program offers a simple and trusted way for members to engage across regions, industries, and generations of the Leadership Academy experience. Members who opt in will be identified in the Global App and serve as approachable connection points for international outreach. Ambassadors commit to being responsive and helpful when contacted, offering guidance, introductions, or insight from their own experience. There are no financial expectations or obligation, instead the program reflects the spirit of our network by making it easier for members to support one another through a willingness to connect.

BECOME A GLOBAL NETWORK AMBASSADOR

Mayo Clinic & SIBF
SIBF is excited to announce a new opportunity in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic Executive Health Program, bringing world-class wellness expertise to our global network of leaders. Through this engagement, SIBF members gain access to Mayo Clinic’s renowned expertise in preventive care and health optimization. Dedicated SIBF liaisons in Minnesota, Florida, Arizona, and London are available to support your wellness journey with access to relevant Mayo Clinic resources. Members can connect directly with these liaisons via our exclusive landing page, providing a seamless entry point to the Mayo Clinic Executive Health Program. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to advancing high-performance leadership through proactive and personalized health care.

SIBF MAYO CLINIC LANDING PAGE

GLOBAL NETWORK NEWS

The Global Network embodies a timeless mission: to develop capable, connected, and compassionate leaders who make a lasting impact on their organizations, communities, and the world. Through immersive academies, lifelong relationships, and shared values, this global family shows that when leaders unite across cultures and industries, they do more than shape economies, they help shape the future. View updates and stories from across the Global Network below:




In July 2025, CELA celebrated the successful completion of the CELA 18 Academy, held at Nazarbayev University’s Graduate School of Business in Astana. Over ten days, forty leaders from nine countries across Central Asia and the South Caucasus immersed themselves in learning, exchange, and community building. The cohort brought fresh energy, including an impromptu “sports camp” that saw participants training before sunrise, and long, idea-filled nights on the hotel stairs. With support from faculty and facilitators from CELA, MELA, SEALA, and SIBF, the program marked another milestone in nurturing the region’s next generation of changemakers.

Facilitators Q&A Session
Earlier this year, CELA hosted a regional Q&A session with facilitators from CELA, MELA, and SIBF—now available on YouTube for those planning to apply for CELA 19 facilitation. The panel, featuring Susan Sutterfield, Ahmed Yehia, Armine Sargsyan, Malika Koyanbayeva, Alexander Jejelava, and Narine Kotikyan, shared what inspired them to facilitate, how the experience shaped their professional growth, and their best advice for newcomers. A must-watch for anyone considering joining the facilitation team.

You can also check out a previous conversation with other facilitators here.

Webinar with SIBF Member Igor Jablokov (NC, '24)
In June 2025, CELA hosted a special webinar with SIBF member Igor Jablokov, CEO of Pryon and one of the original minds behind Alexa, Siri, and IBM Watson. In a dynamic conversation, Igor traced his journey from building early AI systems at IBM to leading today’s push for context-aware, responsible AI. He unpacked how generative models work, the risks they pose—from deepfakes to bias—and what the next phase of AI might look like. The session offered CELA members a rare insider view of the technology shaping our world. We’d love to welcome more SIBF guest speakers in future sessions and invite members interested in sharing their expertise to connect with us.

Webinar with Vazil Hudák
In September 2025, CELA hosted an exclusive webinar with Vazil Hudák, former Minister of Economy of Slovakia and Vice-President of the European Investment Bank. A longtime friend of the network and one of the key figures behind CELA’s founding, Hudák shared insights on “Europe in Global Changes & Investment Opportunities.” Drawing on his experience in international finance and economic strategy, he discussed Europe’s position amid global shifts and highlighted emerging investment frontiers.

Country Webinars: Kazakhstan, Georgia, & Kyrgyzstan
Across 2025, several country chapters led thought-provoking sessions on regional priorities and emerging challenges.

Kazakhstan: In May, CELA Kazakhstan hosted “Heterodox View on Development in Kazakhstan & Central Asia,”exploring why GDP alone fails to capture the region’s realities. Dr. Kuat Akizhanov (CELA 4) and Rakhim Oshakbayev (CELA 12) shared insights on inequality, financialization, and growth, moderated by Assel Kozhakova (CELA’15).

Georgia: In June, CELA Georgia held “Sustainability and Profit: Is It Worth the Investment?” featuring Nino Masurashvili (CELA 12), Nana Berdzenishvili (CELA 17), and Marina Guledani (CELA 13), moderated by George Simongulashvili (CELA 13). The panel explored the balance between purpose and profit in ESG initiatives. Watch the recording here.

Kyrgyzstan: In October, CELA Kyrgyzstan hosted “What Does It Really Take for Women-Led Businesses to Succeed?” with speakers Aidzhan Karieva (CELA 17), Nuraim Manapbaeva (CELA 15), and Zhyldyz Asanbaeva (CELA’17), moderated by Kadyr Toktogulov (CELA 6). The session explored how women leaders navigate challenges and redefine success in the age of AI. Watch the recording here.

CELA at the 2025 SIBF Summit
In September, CELA was proudly represented at the SIBF Summit 2025 in Naples, Florida, where over 260 participants gathered for three days of dialogue, learning, and connection. The summit once again proved SIBF’s unique ability to bring together diverse voices that reflect and challenge the spirit of our times. Nine CELA fellows attended, including Anar Jahangirli, Rasmina Gurbatova, Alexander Jejelava, Nuraim Manapbaeva, Talgat Imangaliyev, Eka Grigalava, Julya Sahakyan, Meri Nikogosyan, and Artashes Tonoyan.

“Together with Mela, we will provide development opportunities that contribute to Oman’s Vision 2040 goals,” Mr. Faisal al Siyabi, CEO of OSHRM.

The Middle East Leadership Alliance (Mela) and the Oman Society for Human Resource Management (OSHRM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen leadership and human capital development across Oman and the MENA region. The Oman Society for Human Resource Management (OSHRM) is the leading nonprofit professional association dedicated to advancing the HR profession in Oman.

Through this collaboration, Mela and OSHRM will co-design leadership programs, executive workshops, and networking forums that empower professionals and youth while supporting Oman’s Vision 2040.

Dr. Sora Al Rowas, Incoming Chair of Mela, said the partnership “brings world-class leadership programs closer to the Omani business community.” Together, Mela and OSHRM are building a platform for ethical collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the next generation of leaders in Oman. 

SEALA Appreciative Inquiry Summit 2025
The SEALA Appreciative Inquiry (AI) Summit 2025 brought together alumni, facilitators, and thought leaders from across the SEALA network to envision the future of SEALA 2.0, a more connected, self-sustaining, and globally impactful leadership community.

Over the course of 4 plus months members identified and developed four core streams of activity planned and managed by members for members. The SEALA AI Summit 2025 succeeded in transforming insight into action. Each of the four core groups is in different stages of pilot initiatives that collectively aim to:
• Deepen member engagement and belonging
• Build a digital backbone for collaboration and learning
• Ensure financial and participatory sustainability
• Expand SEALA’s regional footprint and leadership impact

Over the next few months, SEALA will continue to develop these prototypes into coordinated, scalable systems under the shared vision of a thriving SEALA 2.0. Read the introduction here.

Tanvir Chaudhury introduced as the new Chairperson of the SEALA Board
Tanvir brings three decades of leadership across banking, FMCG, and development, and currently serves as CEO of one of Bangladesh’s largest branded food companies.An alumnus of SEALA 8 and Board member since 2022, Tanvir combines strategic vision, cross-sector experience, and a deep commitment to community. As Chairperson, he will help guide SEALA into its second decade of impact and growth.
Join us in congratulating Tanvir and view his profile here!

SEALA 12 Heads to Thailand | January 22–31, 2026
Leadership. Transformation. South East Asia. We’re thrilled to announce that SEALA 12 will take place in Thailand in January 2026! As our network expands across the region, the next SEALA Academy promises another unforgettable journey of growth, connection, and conscious leadership. Know a rising leader in South East Asia? Encourage them to apply and be part of this powerful experience. Apply now or share the link: http://www.sealanetwork.org/apply

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 All SIBF/GNF Donors

Corporate Sponsors

Alabama Power Company
BakerHostetler
The Bristol Company
Concert IDC
Concorde Companies
FS Gutt Consulting LLC
GenAI Healthcare
Holland & Knight LLP
Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP

Sealevel Systems

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:

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Thank you for being an essential part of the SIBF community!
 
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