Facilitators Nichole Mayfield and Darlene Onuorah brought members together to discuss their nihongo journey and their success stories. This session was an opportunity for members to get together and encourage each other.

NABEA’s October Chinese Language Group session, welcomed Yangyang Cheng, a writer, scholar, particle physicist, and Senior Fellow at Asia Society’s Center on U.S.-China Relations. She talked with members about how language can become a home for people who live and work across cultures, and all language levels are welcome.

BPIA Asia working group and NABEA members hosted an anime social night to eat, network, and attended the Studio Ghibli Fest 2026.

A celebration of Hangeul, the Korean alphabet, that brought together language, history, and culture. This program included a lecture, reflections from NABEA members who have studied Korean, and hands-on activities.

NABEA hosted its September Chinese Language Group Session with facilitators Ashley Rudianne, Chelsea Anglin, Jordan Giles, and Raven Witherspoon . They welcomed Rosey Peng, author and descendant of Taipei's Indigenous Ketagalan people. She discussed her new book, Raonoonoo, and how the Ketagalan connected Taiwan to the world long before microchips.

NABEA hosted an information session in partnership with Savannah State University's International Education Center for SSU students. Students learned about the careers in Asia-related fields and discovered the opportunities and resources available to Black professionals and students in the Asia space.

Facilitators Nichole Mayfield and Darlene Onuorah returned after the summer break to catch up and swapped stories, recommendations, and new interests.

Attendees gathered for an informal Chinese Language Group mixer to connect with fellow NABEA members who are studying Chinese. They were also introduced to the new co-chairs.

Facilitators Nichole Mayfield and Darlene Onuorah hosted a special anniversary celebration of the Japanese Language Group!

In partnership with Young Professionals in Foreign Policy (YPFP), NABEA brought members together for a summer happy hour at Game On Bar + Arcade in Washington, D.C. — a fun evening of drinks, conversation, and community with professionals at the intersection of foreign policy and engagement with Asia.

NABEA hosted a virtual information session for students and early-career professionals interested in the Schwarzman Scholars program — one of the most competitive graduate fellowships focused on U.S.-China relations and global leadership.

Facilitators Nichole Mayfield and Darlene Onuorah led a Japanese Language Group session on Juneteenth that welcomed learners at all levels.

NABEA member Cole Walker hosted a meetup at The Sparrow, a local favorite Chinese restaurant in Midtown Atlanta.

NABEA member Chelsie Alexandre hosted a NABEA NYC Summer Picnic! It was a BYO blankets, snacks, and beverages event where community members connected with one another.

NABEA headed to Gong Cha for a boba meetup in DC! Members connected with fellow members over bubble tea and good conversation, enjoying the beautiful weather all the while.

This virtual happy hour served as a great chance for members to connect and get to know one another.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Facilitators Nichole Mayfield and Darlene Onuorah led a Japanese Language Group session that welcomes learners at all levels.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.