BPIA undertakes a range of activities designed to increase the participation of African Americans and others of African heritage in international affairs. Our programs for students, professionals, and the public focus on three areas:

CORE PROGRAM AREAS

Business and Economic Development

Professional Development and Mentoring

Education and Exchange

PROGRAM ACTIVITIES INCLUDE 

Professional development and mentoring workshops 

Career fairs and networking events 

Gatherings that broaden participants’ knowledge, insights, and experiences in international affairs

BPIA is a charitable, non-profit membership association founded in 1989 by international educator Barbara C. Patterson and associates to increase the involvement of African Americans and other people of African heritage in international affairs. We are an all-volunteer association of people brought together by our passion for international affairs and our desire to further promote the field as a worthwhile career option. The association’s reasonable membership dues promote an inclusive member base, from interested students to accomplished retired diplomats. BPIA maintains a limited overhead and uses donations and membership fees for administrative costs, outreach, and outstanding program implementation.

BPIA is committed to linking our efforts with those of groups and organizations that have similar goals. To that end, we support and work collaboratively with other public, private sector, and non-profit organizations to carry our mission.