The Go Global Conference, hosted by the Atlanta Black Chambers’ Global Opportunities Committee, has officially launched in Atlanta, marking its second year. This unique ‘un’conference aims to replace traditional panels with focused AI-driven matchmaking to enhance cross-border business transactions.
Taking place at Uptown Atlanta from Thursday through Saturday, the event features around 100 companies that are engaging in preset B2B matchmaking appointments, promoting a culture of partnership and collaboration.
Ricardo Berris, the founder of Mi Group and committee chair, expressed a dynamic vision for the conference during the welcome reception on Wednesday evening. He emphasized, ‘We believe that less talk and more transaction is the deal. Make the most of it, because the conversations you start tonight can actually lead to partnerships that last a lifetime.’
International delegations have flocked to Atlanta for the conference, bringing representatives from tech, hospitality, and e-commerce sectors across multiple countries. Notable participants include a delegation from South Africa featuring wine, tea, decor, and food, led by Wesgro, and a group from the West London Chamber of Commerce interested in procurement opportunities at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
Additional attendees hail from Kenya, Colombia, Nigeria, Mauritius, Guyana, Ethiopia, Germany, Tanzania, Haiti, Liberia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and the United States.
The opening night featured a video statement from Mayor Andre Dickens, as well as a lineup of speakers who highlighted Atlanta’s role as a significant global trade hub and a representation of Black excellence.
Reuben Brigety, the former U.S. Ambassador to South Africa, recognized Atlanta’s unique position, stating that it is ‘not just another American city’ but ‘America’s gateway to Africa.’ Brigety, now leading Africa-focused strategic advisory firm Busara Advisors, raised points about Africa’s role in future global business dynamics, emphasizing that by 2030, half of the new entrants into the global workforce will come from Africa.
‘That’s not conjecture; those people have already been born,’ he stated, reinforcing Busara’s mission to help U.S. firms effectively navigate the perceived risks associated with African marketplace opportunities.
Among other dignitaries was Canadian Consul General Rosaline Kwan, who echoed sentiments about the importance of inclusivity. She referenced the influential Rosemary Brown, the first Black woman elected to the Canadian parliament, advocating for continued access to opportunities for underrepresented communities.
Statutes of support also emerged from international government representatives, including Philipp Clarke, director of trade at the British Consulate General in Atlanta, along with ambassadors from Liberia and Kenya, who contributed to the kickoff celebration.
The event also featured representatives from Ethiopian Airlines, Invest Atlanta, and the Georgia Haitian American Chamber, showcasing a diverse assembly committed to international business collaboration.
Individuals interested in participating in the matchmaking or attending the event can find additional information online. Individual tickets are available for Saturday’s closing reception, inviting the broader public to engage with the initiatives discussed.
As the conference progresses, the emphasis remains on transforming dialogues into tangible business deals, fostering an atmosphere of strategic actions that yield enduring partnerships worldwide.
image source from：globalatlanta
