A special joint event hosted by the National Association for Black Engagement with Asia (NABEA) and the US-Asia Ladies Networking Group brought an evening of connection, community, and candid conversation, bringing together women working in the U.S.-Asia space.

This event featured a panel discussion moderated by NABEA and spotlighting two women of color leaders working in U.S.-Asia relations:

• Niharika Chibber Joe, Deputy Executive Director, Japan-U.S. Friendship Commission

• Kayla Orta, Non-Resident Fellow, Indo-Pacific Security Initiative at the Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security

Together, they shared insights from their careers in international affairs, reflect on navigating the Asia space as women of color, and offered actionable advice for others seeking to enter or advance in the field.

The evening closed with a networking reception — a chance to build community, trade stories, and strengthen professional connections.

**This event was intended for individuals who work in the U.S.–Asia space and identify as women or non-binary. We kindly asked that attendees met both criteria in order to foster a space rooted in shared experience and community.