.gif)
At the Black & Global Business Network (BGBN), we are on a bold mission to empower and elevate Black entrepreneurs and businesses on a global scale. Our goal is simple yet pioneering —to transform Black-owned businesses into Global Powerhouses by breaking down international barriers and unlocking new opportunities in thriving markets around the world. With our focus on international business development, consulting, technical assistance in global exporting, job creation, and access to capital, BGBN’s International Tax and Corporate Attorneys, Accountants, and Global Professionals curate the global expertise to help businesses scale worldwide.
We believe that Black business is Global business, and through our innovative approach, we guide entrepreneurs—whether they are US-based or international—toward expanding their businesses across borders. BGBN is the epicenter for international business with the Black Business Community, offering strategic pathways to global success. We help entrepreneurs transcend borders and expand their brands in the global marketplace.
Whether you’re a Black-owned US business looking to grow into international markets or a non-US business seeking to enter the US market and connect with the Black Business Community, BGBN provides the expertise and resources to make it happen. We specialize in facilitating access to capital, creating jobs, and building sustainable export strategies that position your business for growth on the global stage.
BGBN is more than a network—it’s a movement. We are leading a new era where Black businesses are not just participants in the global economy but innovators, leaders, and pioneers driving international growth. Whether you're looking to export your products, build partnerships, or access new markets, our programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge, resources, and global connections necessary to compete and win in international trade. Through initiatives like our Global Readiness Program, Momentum Global Export Accelerator, Trade Finance Incubator, the American Business Accelerator, and Virtual Trade Summits, we are preparing Black-owned businesses to excel on the world stage.
Why BGBN?
We understand the complexities of expanding into global markets, and with the right support, those challenges turn into opportunities. From exporting to creating jobs and accessing capital, BGBN is committed to helping businesses grow their presence internationally while fostering partnerships that strengthen the global Black Business Community.
This is our time! Let’s turn ambition into action and take Black-owned businesses from Black & Local to Black & Global
The World’s Number One Conference For Black Entrepreneurs & Black Professionals who want to:
Get ready to be part of something truly groundbreaking! This year’s summit is your opportunity to lead the charge into global markets and make history with us as we break new ground in international business by combining Global Trade with the power of AI. Here’s why you absolutely can’t afford to miss this event:
Make History: Grand Opening of the Black & Global Virtual International Trade Center
The summit will also mark the inaugural launch of the Black & Global Virtual International Trade Center (VITC)—the first-ever AI-powered digital hub designed to support and empower Black entrepreneurs on a global scale. VITC will provide unparalleled access to AI-driven B2B matchmaking, deals, professional resources, partnerships, networking, bilateral trade, and tools needed for international business success.
And here’s the Billion-dollar part: The Middle East will be the first region where we are breaking ground through the VITC! You’ll be among the first to experience this revolutionary platform, giving you direct access to the resources and partnerships you need to thrive in this vital region and beyond.
To Get Started, No Need to Hop on a Plane. Meet Us at the Black & Global Virtual International Trade Center, Your Gateway to Global Success.
Unleash Global Trade Opportunities & Be Part of a Bold New Era in the Middle East
The world of global trade is exploding with billions of dollars in opportunities for businesses just like yours, and the Middle East is at the heart of this new frontier. This summit offers you the chance to be at the forefront of Black-owned businesses expanding into the Middle East—a region rich with untapped potential, ready for innovative entrepreneurs to make their mark.
Click the Flags below to checkout the Opportunties in these Middle Eastern Countries
Click on the passes below.
November 7, 2024 09:00 am
Welcome Address & Opening Remarks
An overview of the summit's theme and objectives, with insights into the importance of global business expansion and Middle East market opportunities.
Expert Session: "The Future of Global Trade: Why the Middle East is Crucial to Your Global Strategy"
A comprehensive presentation about the Middle East as a global business hub, highlighting its growing influence, key industries, and trade dynamics.
Panel Discussion: "Navigating Cultural and Regulatory Landscapes in the Middle East"
A discussion on how to overcome cultural barriers, understand regulatory requirements, and adapt business strategies for successful entry into Middle Eastern markets.
Break
Presentation: "Export Opportunities and Challenges in Key Middle Eastern Countries"
An in-depth look into the most promising markets in the Middle East, including insights into the export landscape, challenges, and potential solutions.
Melissa Muhammad
International Tax Attorney, Founder & CEO Black & Global Business Network
Tanya Cole
Regional Senior Commercial Office at U.S. Commercial Services
Khawlah Yahya Nasser
Associate Business Development Analyst, Sector Investment Development, Saudi Ministry of Investment
Andres Hayes
President & CEO of Artifae Group
November 7, 2024 12:00 pm
Quickly grab a bite to eat and join us back for the roundtable discussions.
Guess what? You'll engage with fellow businesses and familiarize with leaders from 23 sectors. You can chat, connect and WIN together. Each session is limited to 15 participants, so it's first come first serve. Find a partner and go global today, Closing one contract at a time.
November 7, 2024 01:00 pm
to
13:00 pm
Did you know a Black-owned Business helped develop Palm Island in Dubai, UAE? Meet him today and learn how a Successful Black-owned business is doing Billion-Dollar Deals in the Middle East
Eric Henderson
CEO, Chairman, and Founder of XCBG International Development Group
November 7, 2024 02:30 pm
Before you hop on a plane to the Middle East, build the relationships that matter most. Our smart B2B Matchmaking tool connects you with vetted industry partners, helping you set up strategic meetings, establish meaningful connections, and get a head start on contracts. Leverage these connections to navigate new markets with confidence and drive impactful growth.
Sylvia Weddington
Founder and CEO of Weddington Relocation Management & Real Estate Services
November 7, 2024 04:30 pm
Host: BGBN Leadership
Summary of the day’s key takeaways and an outlook on Day 2's matchmaking session.
November 8, 2024 09:00 am
Day 2 Welcome Address
Overview of Day 2’s sessions and networking opportunities.
Expert Session: "Current Trade Opportunities in the Middle East: What are they looking to buy?"
Research key Middle Eastern markets, focus on high-demand sectors, understand trade regulations, establish local connections, tailor marketing strategies, monitor competitors, and leverage government resources for successful market entry.
Speaker: Unlocking Access-to-Capital for Global Expansion: Financing Your International Growth
Discover available government programs, financial assistance, and grants that can support your international expansion into the Middle East.
Break
Expert Talk: "Building Strategic Partnerships and Alliances in the Middle East"
Explore how to create and foster strong business partnerships and alliances with Middle Eastern companies to ensure a sustainable market entry.
Dr. Ghada Mohammed Darwish Karbon
Founder and Managing Partner of Dr. Ghada M. Darwish Karbon Law Firm
Reta Jo Lewis
President and Chair of the Board of Directors at Export-Import Bank of the United States
Gabriela Zelaya
Director at US Commercial Services' Global Diversity Export Initiative
Hissa Al-Assa
Business Development Manager, Investment Development Deputyship at The Saudi Ministry of Investment
November 8, 2024 12:00 pm
Quickly grab a bite to eat and join us back for the roundtable discussions.
Guess what? You'll engage with fellow businesses and familiarize with leaders from 23 sectors. You can chat, connect and WIN together. Each session is limited to 15 participants, so it's first come first serve. Find a partner and go global today, Closing one contract at a time.
November 8, 2024 01:00 pm
to
13:00 pm
Black & Global 100-Year Plan: Address the importance of educating and empowering the next generation of Black entrepreneurs to take their place on the global stage by fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among Black youth worldwide to ensure they lead in the global economy of the future.
November 8, 2024 02:30 pm
Before you hop on a plane to the Middle East, build the relationships that matter most. Our smart B2B Matchmaking tool connects you with vetted industry partners, helping you set up strategic meetings, establish meaningful connections, and get a head start on contracts. Leverage these connections to navigate new markets with confidence and drive impactful growth.
Kevin Wayne Johnson
Founder and CEO of The Johnson Leadership Group LLC
Tehron Elvis
President and CEO-Founder of Anvis LLC
Michael Mahabeer
Business Development Manager at Anvis LLC
November 8, 2024 04:30 pm
Host: BGBN Leadership
Final remarks, follow-up resources, and next steps for building relationships and expanding into the Middle East.
Melissa Muhammad is an International Tax Attorney who specializes in helping international businesses operate worldwide. She is the Founder of the Black & Global Business Network. For twenty years, she has lived and worked in different countries focused on the taxation of multi-national corporations. She travels to numerous countries negotiating billion-dollar transactions and has trained tax officials in over 153 nations. Her professional experience includes working in the following organizations: Internal Revenue Service, Large Business & International Division in Washington, DC, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECDC), in Paris, France, National Tax Agency of Japan in Tokyo, Japan, IRS Chief Counsel (International) in Washington, DC,
Tanya Cole is a Senior Commercial Diplomat with over 20 years of experience in the private sector, spanning four continents. She has supported investments in infrastructure, energy, digital sectors, healthcare, and foreign direct investment (FDI). Notably, she played a key role in aerospace deals worth over $52 billion at the 2023 Dubai Air Show and is now focusing on renewable energy signings for COP28 in response to climate change. She led the first Commerce-certified DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) trade mission to Italy, Spain, and Portugal, delivering returns on investment within three months. She is also a member of the U.S. Commerce International Trade Agency's 13-member Diversity and Inclusion Council, where she promotes the importance of checking for unconscious bias to foster business innovation. Her recent Master's thesis from SBA Bocconi focused on DEI for the management of international organizations, emphasizing the link between diversity, innovation, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) leadership.
Associate Business Development Analyst, Sector Investment Development, Saudi Ministry of Investment
Khawlah holds a bachelor's degree in Public Health from King Saud University and has worked over the past three years to study the Saudi health market, identify gaps, and develop the sectorial investment plan that includes many valuable investment opportunities across the sector’s value chain. She also worked on developing many projects with leading international and local companies in the field of health, in which she has supported the companies in their successful establishment in the Saudi market.
Andrés O. Hayes is the President and CEO of the Airtifae Group, an organization focused on enhancing international presence for various entities. He previously served as the Director for International Trade and Commerce in Washington, DC, from 2019 to 2022, where he successfully attracted foreign direct investment and developed the city's first International Business Strategy. His efforts positioned Washington, DC as a significant hub for international business, supporting local companies in expanding their operations globally. With citizenship in the U.S. and residency in the UAE, Hayes has built strong relationships for strategic investments. With 25 years of experience in banking and hospitality, Hayes has held prominent roles, including Regional Manager at Visa International and Senior Vice President overseeing major Card Operations Centers in the Americas and Europe. He has also managed notable restaurants in Washington, DC, and founded AH Consulting Firm. Actively involved in the local community, he has served on various boards, including the DC Chamber of Commerce and Skål International. His commitment to fostering global citizenship through education is evident in his role with Education for Sharing, an international nonprofit organization.
Eric S. Henderson is the CEO, Chairman, and Founder of XCBG International Development Group, a global business development and consulting firm. With over 25 years of experience in international trade and investment, Henderson has completed successful transactions in more than 80 countries and managed projects across 150 nations. His early work with the U.S. Department of Commerce and the World Bank Group shaped his vision for XCBG, inspiring its mission to help businesses navigate the complexities of the global market. Today, Henderson leads XCBG in providing export management, investment advisory, and strategic consulting, with a focus on emerging markets in the Caribbean, Africa, and the Middle East.
Founder and Managing Partner of Dr. Ghada M. Darwish Karbon Law Firm
Dr. Ghada Darwish Karbon is the founder and Managing Partner of Dr. Ghada M. Darwish Karbon Law Firm since 2012 that is swiftly growing and committed while taking pride in providing outstanding services in all major legal fields. She is currently achieving 11 years of professional experience in the legal field and continuously seeking career challenges in the business. She has a deep inclination for women empowerment and strong-willed leadership for the young ones. Presently finishing her PhD in Administrative Law, recently done with her Executive Masters in Sports Law, and earned her Master’s Degree in Public Law and Bachelor’s Degree in Sharia and Law, respectively. She enjoys travelling for leisure while immersing herself in diverse cultures and have a keen eye for arts.
President and Chair of the Board of Directors at Export-Import Bank of the United States
Reta Jo Lewis, confirmed as President and Chair of the U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM) in February 2022, brings over 25 years of leadership in international affairs, law, public policy, and diplomacy. Previously, she was a Senior Fellow at the German Marshall Fund, focusing on U.S.-Europe relations. During the Obama Administration, she served as Special Representative for Global Intergovernmental Affairs at the U.S. State Department, fostering international partnerships. She was also the first Black woman Vice President at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, promoting minority-owned businesses. A Council on Foreign Relations member, she holds degrees from Emory, American University, and the University of Georgia.
Gabriela Zelaya is the Director of Community Engagement for the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Global Diversity Export Initiative (GDEI). With over a decade of experience in international trade and community engagement, she focuses on empowering minority, women, LGBTQI+, veteran, and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses in exporting. Previously, she led ITA’s Global Education Team, supporting U.S. educational institutions in international recruitment. Gabriela holds degrees from the University of California, Riverside, and the University of Miami. As a first-generation college graduate from an immigrant family, her work is deeply influenced by her commitment to inclusive economic growth and educational accessibility.
Business Development Manager, Investment Development Deputyship at The Saudi Ministry of Investment
Hissa Al-Assaf is a Business Development Manager in the ICT Division of the Investment Development Deputyship at the Saudi Ministry of Investment. With a focus on driving foreign investment and aligning with Vision 2030, she plays a key role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s economic goals in the technology sector. Known for her expertise in navigating Saudi Arabia’s investment landscape, Hissa actively promotes the Kingdom as a strategic global investment destination.
Sylvia Weddington is the founder and CEO of Weddington Relocation Management & Real Estate Services, a Black- and woman-owned company established in 2000. Under Sylvia’s leadership, the company has collaborated with over 200 corporations, providing specialized real estate and relocation solutions to help top talent transition smoothly to new locations. Sylvia’s team is renowned for its diversity, including multilingual professionals who cater to a global clientele. Licensed in six states (Georgia, Florida, Texas, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Washington, DC), Sylvia brings extensive expertise to her clients. Beyond her real estate career, Sylvia is also a hospital chaplain with an advanced education in theology. She holds a master’s degree in pastoral care and chaplaincy from the Georgia Association for Pastoral Care, a Master of Arts in divinity from Liberty School of Theology, a degree in biblical studies and human resources from Atlanta Christian College, and a degree in interior design from Penn Foster University. She is also a certified instructor in real estate through the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council (REBAC).
Kevin Wayne Johnson is the Founder and CEO of The Johnson Leadership Group LLC, a leadership development and executive coaching firm based in Maryland. With over 34 years of experience across government and private sectors, he has held diverse leadership roles, specializing in workforce development, training, and organizational change. An accomplished author of the award-winning "Give God the Glory!" series and Amazon bestsellers "Leadership with a Servant’s Heart," Kevin has earned multiple literary awards. An ordained minister and community leader, he serves on various boards and as a Faith Community Commissioner for Suicide Prevention under Maryland Governor Wes Moore.
The founder of ANVIS, Tehron Elvis, has always been deeply committed to his community, beginning his journey of service at the age of 15 by contributing to infrastructure projects in Montgomery County, MD. Tehron graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park, where he supported incoming African American male students as a counselor. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in economics, Tehron honed his expertise in construction, real estate, wealth management, and retirement planning. As a business owner, Tehron is recognized for his strong leadership, communication, and customer service skills. He has a proven ability to create and sustain valuable business relationships, which are the cornerstone of ANVIS’s success. His expertise in streamlining operations to boost efficiency and revenue is matched only by his belief that relationships are the true currency of business, invaluable and irreplaceable.
Michael is Tehron Elvis' business partner for Anvis, LLC. They specialize in the global export of high-demand U.S. products and services to emerging and underserved markets. The company is dedicated to bridging the gap in global trade by bringing American excellence to the world. Anvis LLC rigorously vets both product suppliers and buyers to ensure seamless, reliable, and beneficial transactions for all parties involved.
Exhibitors coming soon
Each year, U.S. businesses export goods and services worth over 2 trillion dollars. To tap into this opportunity, it’s crucial to identify the best strategies for expanding into new markets. The U.S. Commercial Service has created a comprehensive video series to help your small business gain the knowledge and tools needed to successfully enter the dynamic world of exporting.
9701 Apollo Drive Suite 100 Upper Marlboro, Maryland USA 20774
Phone: (240) 232-6192
Meet our Avatar. Her name
is Globally.
BLACK & GLOBAL BUSINESS NETWORK
Dear Black & Global Champion,
I want to share a piece of my journey with you. Once upon a time, I was in your shoes, navigating the maze of the business world, grappling with the intricacies of global contracts, and yearning for meaningful connections. Each missed opportunity left me yearning for a way to blend profitability with purposeful impact.
But I'm here to tell you, my friend, that hope is real, and the path to success, though winding, is accessible. My journey to becoming a #ContractMillionaire was paved with determination and a pivotal choice that reshaped my destiny.
I remember the days of not having a plan on how to leave my 9-5 job, trapped in indecision, and facing the daunting question of growing not only a profitable business but also a global business. Hitting a wall wasn't just a phase; it was a turning point. In those moments of despair, I chose to believe in more – in myself, my dreams, and a future without limits. I embraced business as my beacon of freedom, empowerment, and prosperity.
This is the essence of the Black & Global movement. Born from that decision, its mission is to empower our community to step into their strength and achieve financial independence. This summit is your invitation to embark on a similar transformative journey. Choose yourself, your aspirations, and the wealth and impact you are destined to create.
Black & Global was crafted from my heart, fueled by an understanding of the struggles you face and the incredible potential within you. My aim is to equip you with the tools, insights, and connections needed to thrive in the global contracting world and beyond. Together, we can dismantle barriers, connect the diaspora, and forge a prosperous future for us and our communities.
I urge you to embrace this chance. At the Black & Global Summit, you'll find yourself among peers who share your aspirations and ambitions. This is where you'll gain invaluable insights, form powerful alliances, and embrace your role as a Black & Global Game Changer.
Welcome to the next chapter of your life. In unity with our community, we're setting out to redefine Black entrepreneurship and catalyze global economic change. Believe in your power, trust in your journey, and commit to making an impact. I eagerly await the greatness you'll unfold. See you at the summit!
With heartfelt support, Your Sister and Servant,
Melissa Muhammad
Founder & CEO, Black & Global Business Network
