Events
DC Boba meetup
NABEA is heading to Gong Cha for a boba meetup in DC! Come connect with fellow members over drinks and good conversation, then take a stroll through Franklin Park to enjoy the beautiful weather.
NABEA NYC Summer Picnic
We are having a NABEA NYC Summer Picnic hosted by Chelsie Alexandre!
This will be a BYO blankets, snacks, and beverages event! We can’t wait to see our community members and connect with one another.
Atlanta Member Meetup
Join NABEA member Cole Walker for a meetup at The Sparrow, a local favorite Chinese restaurant in Midtown Atlanta! Connect with fellow members over delicious food and great conversation.
Virtual Happy Hour
Join us at our next Happy Hour! This is a great chance for members to connect and get to know one another.
Seoul Member Meetup
We had the opportunity to reconnect with our amazing NABEA community in Seoul! Whether you’ve been with NABEA for years or are just getting to know us, all are welcome. We hope to see you next time!
Beijing Member Meetup
NABEA hosted a great Beijing Member Meetup!
We had great conversation, drinks, and bites as we shared our diverse experiences and strengthened connection. We had a fantastic turnout and were so excited to see everyone and build lasting relationships within our community!
Workshop: How to Prepare for Going Abroad
NABEA brought an enriching learning experience to our amazing NABEA community! In this workshop, NABEA member Brianna Harrison encouraged cultural discovery, facilitated meaningful conversation, and shared practical tools for navigating life abroad.
Bangkok Member Meetup
Our amazing NABEA community came together once again in Bangkok! The evening was full of meaningful conversation, community, and connection. NABEA members who have been with the community for years and people who were just getting to know us were all welcome.
Vietnamese Language Group
NABEA had its first Vietnamese Language Group Session— our newest member-led language group! All levels were welcome to come practice the language, explore Vietnamese culture, and connect with others in a relaxed, supportive environment.
Vietnamese Language Group Welcome Mixer (March)
We kick off our very first Vietnamese Language Group facilitated by Cameron Thomas-Shah!
This casual meet-and-greet was a great chance to connect with fellow members interested in the Vietnamese language and culture.
Japanese Language Group (March)
Facilitators Nichole Mayfield and Darlene Onuorah led a Japanese Language Group session that welcomes learners at all levels.
Tokyo Member Meetup: Japan Spring Huddle
We are excited to have reconnected with our amazing NABEA community in Tokyo! We had an evening of meaningful conversation, community, and connection. Hosted by NABEA Member Harvey Beasley!
Chinese Language Group (March)
NABEA’s March Chinese Language Group Session was led by facilitators Obi Eneh and Raven Witherspoon. We discussed the history of the Chinese character “她“ in Chinese literature!
Representation in Action: A Conversation with Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland
NABEA and the US-Asia Ladies Networking Group hosted an intimate conversation with Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland, the first member of Congress of both Korean and African-American heritage. She discussed how her background and identity have shaped her journey in public service and what representation means in political leadership.
Shaping the China Space: Education, Representation, and U.S. Policy
NABEA and the Black China Caucus hosted a virtual panel exploring critical questions about education, representation, and the future of U.S.-China policy. Panelists Brandy Darling and Greyson Mann discussed where Americans study China, barriers facing Black professionals in the field, and how greater diversity could reshape U.S.-China discourse.
Chinese Language Group (February)
NABEA hosted its February Chinese Language Group Session with facilitators Obi Eneh and Raven Witherspoon. They invited Dr. Efe Yahaya-Shuaibu to discuss bridging China-Africa opportunities through language, culture, and strategic partnerships.
DC Lunar New Year Gathering: Korean Barbeque
NABEA members in Washington, D.C., gathered at Gogi Yogi to welcome the Lunar New Year together. Over a shared meal inspired by flavors from across our community, we rang in the Year of the Horse with conversation, connection, and good company.
Japanese Language Group (February)
Facilitators Nichole Mayfield and Darlene Onuorah led a Japanese Language Group session welcoming learners at all levels. Participants talked about their 2026 Japanese study goals and explored the wonders of winter—the upcoming Winter Olympics, seasonal activities, and more.
Virtual Happy Hour
NABEA held its first-ever virtual happy hour for members in Asia! The happy hour was filled with laughs and community, where members raised a glass in the region we all love.
Chinese Language Group (December)
NABEA’s Chinese Language Group hosted a relaxed, conversation-based session focused on holiday traditions from around the world. The gathering was designed to help participants practice speaking Chinese in a supportive, low-pressure environment while sharing personal stories and cultural traditions.
Tokyo Member Meetup
NABEA held a lively meetup in Tokyo, where members shared updates from their professional and personal lives. Hosted by Harvey Beasley, the gathering brought together our community for meaningful conversation and connection.
Korean Language Group (November)
Facilitator Ademola Adeyemi led our final Korean Language Group session for a lively and engaged group of learners as we closed out the year together. The group session was a welcoming space for learners at all levels to practice Korean, build confidence, and connect with others in the NABEA community.
Japanese Language Group (November)
On October 14th, NABEA’s Japanese Language Group discussed "How does your identity shape your interest in Japan?” in a conversation that blends language practice with real talk. We explored what it means to navigate a love for Japan as a Black person—the joys, the questions, and the experiences that make our journeys unique. All levels of Japanese learners are welcome for the next group meeting!
Chinese Language Group (November)
November’s Chinese Language Group session hosted special guest Dr. Keisha Brown, who led a conversation connecting language learning with the global histories of Black and Asian solidarity.
Women of Color in the Asia Space
The National Association for Black Engagement with Asia (NABEA) and the US-Asia Ladies Networking Group joined together to host an evening of connection, community, and candid conversation as women working in the U.S.-Asia space were brought together for a special joint event.
Professional Development Workshop: LinkedIn Tips + Career Paths in Asian Studies
On October 22, NABEA hosted a virtual workshop with Lorena James on how to use LinkedIn for job searching, networking, and exploring careers in Asian Studies. This event was open to all NABEA members.
DC Member Meetup
We hosted one last rooftop meetup to close out the season before winter hits! At Hi-Lawn, NABEA members had a chance to unwind, reconnect, and soak up the Fall weather with fellow DC-area members. No agenda, just good vibes and great company.
Japanese Language Group (October)
On October 14th, NABEA’s Japanese Language Group discussed "How does your identity shape your interest in Japan?” in a conversation that blends language practice with real talk. We explored what it means to navigate a love for Japan as a Black person — the joys, the questions, and the experiences that make our journeys unique. All levels of Japanese learners are welcome for the next group meeting!
Virtual Happy Hour
Members came together for another Virtual Happy Hour, hosted by community favorite Brandy Darling. Topics ranged from pets and book recommendations to famous R&B singers and Broadway. Be sure to join us next time for a fun, casual evening of conversation and community.
Chinese Language Group (October)
NABEA’s Chinese Language Group celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival by hosting a virtual evening of connection and community with fellow Chinese-speaking friends, learners, and enthusiasts.
Korean Language Group (September)
Facilitator Ademola Ademeyi led a session that taught attendees how to read real Korean in under an hour. NABEA’s Korean Foundation Series session was attended by absolute beginners and K-content fans who were ready to master Hangul and leave romanization behind.
Japanese Language Group (September)
Facilitators Nichole Mayfield and Darlene Onuorah hosted a session about what autumn means to our members. Learners of all levels discussed seasonal foods, festive holidays, and cozy traditions. A huge thank you to all who participated!
Career Crossroads: A Guide to Transitioning from Federal Government
NABEA and The Sejong Society of Washington, D.C. hosted a panel discussion about navigating career transitions during times of change. Panelists Lance Jackson, Greyson Mann and Calita Woods shared their experiences moving between international business, government affairs, and freelance work.
