Upstate International will deliver its first Global Upstate Conference in March, with a focus on international business and global affairs.
The event brings together geopolitical experts ranging from former ambassadors to CEOs who will discuss some of today’s most pressing issues, such as nuclear proliferation, 5G implementation and China’s growing influence.
Organizer Rob Rowen said events like these are growing in importance as the Upstate economy becomes increasingly globalized.
“When things happen in China, it affects this area,” he said.
Speakers include John Herbst, former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine and Uzbekistan; Robert Blake, former U.S. ambassador to Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia; and Ann Morrison, retired editor of TIME Magazine.
The four day conference — March 28-30 at Furman University and March 31 at USC Upstate — is geared for a wide range of interests, from high school students to seasoned professionals.
Tracie Frese, executive director of Upstate International, said the goal was to bring in nonpartisan speakers for fact-based discussion, letting attendees form their own opinions about issues without the influence of talking heads.
“We have some pretty amazing speakers,” she said.
Rowen said organizers are expecting about 400 people — although not everyone will attend at the same time. Special rates are available for those only attending part of the conference. Attending all three days is $150. Student tickets are $35 and cover the second day of the conference.
Costs include catered meals and networking opportunities.
Sponsorship opportunities are available, too.
Upstate International, which was founded in 1997, has been a major factor in the region for creating opportunities for cultural exchanges and understanding, with language classes, relocation services, social clubs and cultural events. Frese said the organization helps Upstate residents engage with the rest of the world.
“I haven’t seen another opportunity quite like this,” Frese said.
- US/China Trade Relations
- International Work Force Development
- Global Supply Chain Challenges
- Russia and NATO
- Water as a Security Issue
- Migration and the Southern Border
- Africa and China and the U.S. Race to the Riches
- Cyber Security and Information Manipulation
- Global Pandemics: A Business Perspective
- Democracy and Authoritarian Threats
