Editor’s Note: The Dinner Diplomacy Program is a small grants initiative launched in 2024 with founding support from Marriott International to advance peace and cultural understanding through travel. The program helps Global Ties Network member organizations expand opportunities for people in their communities to participate in dinner diplomacy events with global leaders traveling to the United States on international exchange programs. The program reached 30 U.S. communities in its second year and seeded almost four dozen activities centered on advancing peace and cultural understanding through shared meals. Below are their stories, as told by the community–based member organizations across the nationwide Global Ties Network that hosted the Dinner Diplomacy events. All photos have been provided by the Global Ties Network.
Cleveland Council on World Affairs
The Cleveland Council on World Affairs (CCWA) welcomed 42 Brazilian English teachers for a homestay experience with families around the city. Twenty-six citizen diplomat volunteers opened their homes for a fun weekend exploring Cleveland’s top cultural attractions, including the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Art, followed by home cooked meals, cookouts, and family reunions. Many hosts reflected on the spirit of cultural exchange and learning from one another. Cristina, a first-time citizen diplomat volunteer originally from Brazil, shared that: “Hosting reminded me how powerful these exchanges are in creating mutual understanding and friendship across cultures.” The Graora family, seasoned hosts who have welcomed eight international visitors through various CCWA programs, echoed this sentiment: “Each time our community has come together to welcome these visitors, people ask questions, [and] they learn about Brazil. We look forward to hosting, sharing, learning, and embracing our neighbors worldwide.”
Colorado Springs World Affairs Council
Colorado Springs World Affairs Council (CSWAC) hosted a delegation of 16 young European leaders representing the EU and NATO on an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) exchange with a focus on “U.S. Defense, Economics, and Social Issues.” Following the program, a social hour was held where the young European leaders mingled with 20+ local community members, including the Mayor of Colorado Springs. CSWAC notes that events like these showcase the heart of the IVLP–bringing people together, uniting professionals from around the world, giving them a chance to learn together, share perspectives, and build connections that can grow into real cooperation.
Georgia Council for International Visitors
In mid-July, the Georgia Council for International Visitors (GCIV) welcomed seven NGO and higher education leaders from seven African nations through the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). The group focused on “Empowering Youth through Workforce Development,” examining the role that vocational education plays in providing Americans with training and skills tailored to fit targeted employment needs. Community members welcomed the international visitors to the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) in Atlanta for an evening of traditional Southern dining and meaningful dialogue. Following opening remarks from GCIV and RICE leadership, each of the international visitors had the opportunity to share reflections on their work in their home countries, their experiences in the United States, and key takeaways they were eager to implement upon their return home. GCIV notes that this event exemplified the impact that international exchange programs have not just on local communities, but within countries across the world.
Global Minnesota
In the small town of Lanesboro, Minnesota, visiting artists and entrepreneurs from Africa gathered with local leaders over a shared meal. Conversation flowed from food to public art, and the group learned how a single mural project revitalized Main Street–drawing more visitors, supporting businesses, and inspiring local pride. Weeks later, disability rights advocates from Pakistan joined locals at the Minnesota State Fair, Minnesota’s largest cultural gathering. The group shared falafel and cheese curds in the International Bazaar before touring the fairgrounds. They saw firsthand how accessible bathrooms, and accommodating guest services create a welcoming space for everyone. Whether in a small arts town or at a bustling fairground, the lesson was the same: when people gather, listen, and share meals, they build understanding. Travel matters because it creates everyday moments that grow into friendships that cross borders.
Global Ties Akron
On August 20, Global Ties Akron hosted International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) guests for a lunchtime gathering. Conversations flowed naturally across tables, connecting people through culture, curiosity, and shared human experiences. One group’s discussion ranged from gardening and daily routines to the influence of social media on political discourse and the cultural divide between rural and urban communities. One participant noted that “It was lovely to have a broad conversation that moved from fun to deep reflection.” Another attendee highlighted how: “Even from across the world, we realized we grew up watching the same shows and movies, which shaped similar passions and dreams.” Travel helps us uncover those universal threads and reminds us that peace and understanding are often just one shared meal away. Ultimately, these conversations remind us that despite our differences, we are often asking the same questions–and that shared understanding starts with listening to one another.
Global Ties Alabama
In celebration of its 60th anniversary, Global Ties Alabama hosted three Dinner Diplomacy events. The first welcomed Mandela Washington Program Fellows, accomplished innovators and entrepreneurs attending the Leadership Business Institute at Alabama A&M University, for a Fourth of July dinner hosted by Global Ties Alabama CEO Jacqui Shipe and her husband, Oliver.
Shortly after, Global Ties Alabama welcomed an IVLP delegation from 10 African countries for dinner following their visits to historic sites in Selma and Montgomery. Al Allenback, Global Ties Alabama’s Board Chair, noted, “Spending a few hours with these truly interesting people is what “soft power” is all about.”
The last diplomacy dinner took place in Madison, AL with Lithuanian leaders on a Congressional Open World program focused on “Business Development in the Defense Industry.” The dinner was attended by a French exchange student, local business owners and defense contractors, and members of Global Ties Alabama’s Diplomatic Corps. These dinners and the widespread participation across Alabama emphasize how global collaboration through entrepreneurship and exchange can promote mutual understanding and long-term cooperation.
Global Ties Arizona
Global Ties Arizona organized two dinner diplomacy events: a discussion focused on innovations in the AI industry and a Global Café welcoming IVLP participants to explore desert technology. The first event took place at the University of Arizona Scottsdale Center, where 10 AI specialists from Germany and Sweden met Phoenix community members and AI industry experts. The evening blended local expertise with global perspectives, as IVLP participants shared expertise on AI policy, ethics, and societal impact. The following week, Global Ties Arizona hosted a Global Café, welcoming IVLP participants from the Middle East to discuss desert technology and research in arid climates. One participant remarked that Arizona’s solutions “offer lessons our region can adapt to strengthen our own communities,” prompting lively dialogue on cross-border collaboration in desert management. These exchanges underscore the value of travel and direct engagement, offering opportunities for people from different cultures to share knowledge, learn from one another, and build the understanding and trust necessary to foster peace and collaboration worldwide.
Global Ties Detroit
Through the Young African Leaders Initiative (YLAI) Home Hospitality dinner, community members and Mandela Washington Fellows were united for an evening of cultural exchange, shared laughter, and good food. One host reflected on their experience, stating “It was a fulfilling and enriching experience. We are truly grateful for our group and everything that was prepared with such joy and excitement.” Another shared that their gathering lasted well into the evening, even starting a WhatsApp group to chat about resources and info during their time in Detroit. These gatherings remind us that travel is more than movement between places; it is a pathway to peace, empathy, and global understanding.
Global Ties Iowa
In late July, Global Ties Iowa hosted two international delegations for “Iowa Table Dinners,” during which households would host participants from both delegations to share stories and connect over their professional and personal interests. Peyton, a Global Ties Iowa employee, co-hosted her first Iowa Table Dinner. She said that “Sharing a meal and telling stories has always been important to my family, as it is to many people around the world, so it makes visitors feel truly welcome to be invited to share a meal in someone’s home.” Coincidently, Peyton co-hosted the dinner the night before her birthday, so the dinner was made extra special when every guest sang ‘Happy Birthday’ in their own language.
Another dinner was hosted by first-time host Ana, who shared that “The idea of welcoming international visitors into our home to share a meal felt both simple and powerful.” In the best ways possible, the world was made a little bit smaller as a family from Iowa connected with people from Norway, Italy, Ukraine, and Sierra Leone. When asked about advice that she would give other first-time hosts, Ana ended with a message that embodies the spirit of dinner diplomacy: “You don’t need to create a perfect dinner party–just open your door, offer what you can, and let the conversation and laughter do the rest.”
Global Ties Kalamazoo
On a warm July evening, Global Ties Kalamazoo celebrated dinner diplomacy and brought together longtime volunteers, board members, community members, and an inspiring delegation of 16 women entrepreneurs from across Latin America. For a few hours, the event transformed a casual downtown Kalamazoo pub into a hub of international friendship. The event also honored seasoned hosts whose open doors have provided thousands of international visitors with meaningful experiences in Kalamazoo. The idea behind dinner diplomacy is clear: the power of a shared meal can break down barriers, build trust, and remind us of our shared humanity. Sitting at a dinner table, whether it’s at a restaurant downtown or someone’s kitchen table, creates a setting where authentic conversations happen; ideas are shared, and stereotypes are broken.
Global Ties KC
In July, Global Ties KC welcomed an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) delegation from Côte d’Ivoire focused on Creative Industries and Tourism as Strategic Contributors to Economic Growth. Gathered at a local arts collective, the evening brought together local artists, art enthusiasts, and the visiting delegation for a vibrant cultural exchange. True to Kansas City tradition, BBQ was served as the main meal. Visitors had the opportunity to connect one-on-one with local artists, tour the venue, and learn about art in the community.
In mid-August, Global Ties KC hosted another signature event: a Community Connection Hour featuring journalists from around the world on the IVLP “Edward R. Murrow Investigative Journalism.” The evening included a networking reception, formal dinner, and remarks from Global Ties KC leadership and five visiting journalists. The evening was filled with engaging conversations, powerful storytelling, and meaningful exchanges rooted in citizen diplomacy. As one visitor shared, “We come here tonight as people with different backgrounds, different languages, and different stories, but we are all united by our curiosity and respect for each other.” Travel fosters meaningful relationships across borders, laying the foundation for lasting peace and collaboration–one conversation, one connection, and one shared experience at a time.
Global Ties Nebraska
Global Ties Nebraska hosted two community receptions focused on dialogue and connection. Nebraskans and global leaders from the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) had the opportunity to discover common ground, exchange ideas, and build relationships that extended way beyond the evening events. One local host, Chris, reflected: “Over dinner, you learn how small the world is, and it always amazes me how often I meet people who have been to the same places and had the same experiences.”
Another host, Brooke, shared: “The opportunity to be a dinner diplomat is really special for my family. We learn so much from the leaders we welcome into our home, and it gives my children an opportunity to meet and learn from people from all over the world with different perspectives and experiences.” Through shared meals and meaningful conversation, this initiative strengthened cross-cultural understanding, created new friendships, and further reinforced Nebraska’s role as a welcoming community for global leaders.
Global Ties San Francisco
Global Ties San Francisco hosted its Global Social Hour, to connect the local community with two International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) groups focused on Advanced Battery Chemistries and Economic Development and the Bioeconomy. The event drew strong interest with the local community and offered a meaningful opportunity to explore the power of citizen diplomacy — demonstrating how international exchange strengthens cross-cultural understanding, workforce and business development, and the local economy. An international visitor from the Czech Republic shared how surprised he was by the hospitality he experienced in the Bay Area. Having traveled widely and experienced many different customs throughout the world, he remarked that America left a lasting impression. His story was one of many exchanged throughout the evening, resonating deeply with many and underscoring how exchanges help to balance perspectives and build mutual understanding.
GlobalPittsburgh
GlobalPittsburgh hosted two events for the 2025 Dinner Diplomacy Program including Experience the Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony and Tango Velvet: An Evening of Music, Storytelling, and Argentine Cuisine. The Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony offered guests a deeply personal introduction to Ethiopian hospitality, sparking conversations about tradition, family, and daily rituals. One participant remarked, “I never realized how much meaning can be shared over a cup of coffee–this was more than a drink, it was a window into someone’s world.”
The Tango Velvet event transported audiences to Buenos Aires through live tango, storytelling, and regional food. Attendees reflected on how art and culture convey identity, with one guest sharing, “I came for the music but left with a deeper understanding of Argentina’s soul.” These experiences demonstrate the profound impact of sharing meals and stories across cultures. Travel and cultural exchange remain essential tools for building empathy, fostering mutual understanding, and nurturing peace in our interconnected world.
Gulf Coast Diplomacy
On July 31, Gulf Coast Diplomacy hosted Brazilian professionals on an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) trip to Pensacola, Florida. Local media coverage and outreach drew more than 70 people to the event. Brazilians spoke about their work and encouraged everyone to explore the AI-centric, hands-on exhibits set up throughout the science center. Guests lingered well past the end, trading ideas about AI and education. One visitor reflected on the event: “Having a reception made connecting easier.” More than half the audience was new to the organization, and the event underscored how food and hospitality open doors to fresh audiences, build new connections, and showcase the power of hospitality in citizen diplomacy.
International House
On August 28, the Citizen Diplomacy team at International House gathered at Kid Cashew, a locally owned restaurant that is a favorite among international visitors, for an intimate meal that celebrated our diplomacy community. Attendees included home hospitality hosts, board members, and community partners.
Loretta Evivie, International House’s Board of Directors President-Elect, expressed her gratitude to the organization, having grown up as a first-generation American and hearing her parents speak of the support they received from International House. She mentioned that sitting down at this meal was a full circle moment that she knew her parents would be proud of.
Sharing cultures through food and travel is an incredible reminder of our shared humanity. These types of exchanges are powerful tools for fostering empathy, promoting collaboration, and maintaining peace–one bite at a time.
International Institute of Wisconsin
On August 5, the International Institute of Wisconsin’s office was alive with energy as they hosted a dynamic panel discussion and networking luncheon, bringing together international leaders and local community members (including dinner hosts, interfaith leaders, authors, and government officials) in the spirit of dialogue and connection. The event centered on global strategies to protect freedom of religion or belief, fostering candid conversations and forging new partnerships across cultures and sectors.
One participant from Iraq reflected on the panel discussion: “The exchange was honest, and deeply inspiring, serving as a reminder of the power of dialogue across differences.” These gatherings serve as a testament to the role of travel in advancing mutual understanding and the profound value of people-to-people connections.
Iowa International Center
At a Lunch & Learn event hosted by Iowa International Center, a delegation of Japanese professionals specializing in emergency preparedness and planning shared their experiences responding to natural disasters in their communities. Many focused on the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami that devastated Fukushima and much of Japan’s east coast. Presenters shared how collaborations with international organizations aided in their quick recovery, and the lessons they learned from the experience.
“These visitors traveling to Des Moines allowed us to engage individuals across multiple sectors who otherwise may not have been able to enjoy learning about another culture,” said Patricia Grote, Executive Director of Iowa International Center. Added Board Member Nick Ross: “The lasting impression I came away with is that they are very proud of where they come from, which can be seen, and felt, by being positive through the long process of recovery to make Japan a stronger country.”
All in all, this event allowed community members to break down barriers and open global perspectives to inspire stronger, more resilient communities at home and abroad.
Tulsa Global Alliance
Tulsa Global Alliance hosted 20 Germany Bundestag staff members through the “Beyond Washington” program, funded by the U.S. Embassy in Berlin. A “Toast the Travelers” dinner reception allowed the group to enjoy a meal and valuable conversation. Tulsa City Councilor and Honorary Ambassador to Celle, Germany, Christian Bengel, who also joined the event, reflected: “Through these interactions, I’ve witnessed firsthand how communities across the globe face many of the same challenges we do here in Tulsa. [This] work empowers local communities to connect with global citizens, strengthening diplomacy and mutual respect from the ground up.” Germany representatives left Tulsa with warm memories of hospitality in the U.S. heartland and a sense of mutual understanding between the two countries.
Vermont Council on World Affairs
The Vermont Council on World Affairs welcomed five International Visitor Leadership Program participants from the Mekong region for an evening of dinner diplomacy focused on entrepreneurship and small business development. Community members joined the visitors around the table, and the conversations quickly moved beyond introductions into meaningful exchanges of ideas and experiences.
A visitor from Cambodia formed a connection with a local entrepreneur, discovering they both worked in the same industry and agreed to stay in touch beyond the program. The visitor remarked, “It was encouraging to meet someone in Vermont who understands the same challenges I face back home. His advice will be very helpful as I keep building my work.”
This event demonstrated the quiet power of sharing a meal, sparking professional collaborations, inspiring local community members to take on new roles, and building connections that stretch far beyond a few hours at dinner.
World Affairs Council of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky
The World Affairs Council of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky hosted its inaugural “Farmer’s Market & Friends” at the Covington Farmers Market. The event introduced delegates from Algeria, Angola, Namibia, Seychelles, and South Africa who were on a policy focused exchange through the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) on how to combat illegal fishing. Participants shared pastries from North South Bakery in Covington, KY and discussed their experiences. A participant from Algeria reflected on his time with his dinner host, a member of the World Affairs Council’s Young Professional Advisory Group, sharing: “We had a very emotional discussion on togetherness, and living in peace through borders, languages, and religions.” His words emphasized the spirit of the morning–diplomacy is not just about treaties and negotiations, but also about human connection and shared understanding.
World Affairs Council of Las Vegas
World Affairs Council of Las Vegas had the privilege of offering a multi-regional group something truly special: home hospitality taken to the next level. Dan and his family have been opening their doors to international visitors since 2018. So, at 4:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 9, Dan was firing up the smoker for a brisket that would anchor a feast worthy of a standing ovation.
Dinner began with an abundant meal with unforgettable flavors and conversations full of laughter, curiosity, and connection. A highlight came when Dan, his son, and his son-in-law picked up their guitars. One of the guests, Andrew, jumped on the drums. And just like that, a spontaneous jam session broke out in the living room, because food and music speak every language. In that moment, they reminded everyone why this work is important. We must gather, share, and open our homes to strangers and leave as friends.
World Affairs Council of New Hampshire
On August 22, the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire hosted a dinner diplomacy event for 11 journalists participating in an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) on “Advocacy in Social Media.” The event welcomed a diverse mix of attendees–from seasoned home hosts to eager newcomers– in celebration of international visitors from the Middle East and Africa. The group shared a meal, discussing common hopes and aspirations, expanding their professional networks, and creating life-long friendships. A participant from Jordan captured the significance of the evening: “We arrived as strangers, united by curiosity and a shared purpose. Tonight, we leave not only as colleagues and collaborators, but as friends and more than that, as family for life.” The friendships formed during the evening will continue to shape global conversations, as these journalists return home carrying not just professional skills, but personal connections to New Hampshire and a deeper appreciation for American perspectives on media and democracy.
World Affairs Council of Philadelphia
This past summer, World Affairs Council of Philadelphia celebrated cross-cultural understanding by welcoming local hosts and international visitors from Near East/North Africa and Mexico to share a meal together. Over 70 guests were in attendance for the festive occasion, featuring delicious Moroccan and Mexican cuisines. Both new and longtime dinner hosts were invited, and the event reminded everyone how a single meal can spark new connections and build bridges across cultures. Experiences like dinner diplomacy show that travel and international exchange are not just about seeing new places; the person-to-person connections also deepen understanding and empathy, which are essential for lasting peace across continents and cultures.
World Affairs Council of St. Louis
World Affairs Council of St. Louis, in partnership with Lions Clubs International, connected international students from countries including Mongolia, Italy, and Germany with interns from the Council. The students connected on topics of American fast food, college tuition costs, and music legends, all through the international love of food. Simple conversations reminded everyone that, despite our barriers and differences, there is always common ground to be found. By giving attendees a firsthand look at common humanity and the crossing of cultures, they develop empathy and respect for others that are necessary for establishing international peace.
WorldBoston
On August 14, WorldBoston hosted a “Speak Up! Networking and Languages with WorldBoston” networking event, bringing together a vibrant mix of local community members and international guests. Attendees enjoyed lively conversations, food provided by Marriott International, a raffle, and “Lingo Bingo.” Two IVLP groups attended the event–a group from China focused on “Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development,” and a multi-regional group focused on “Women in Politics and Civil Society”–representing almost 30 countries and numerous languages.
Travel allows this kind of in-person connection to take place; allowing individuals to meet people from countries they may never have heard of and speaking languages they may never have heard of. Connection makes it harder to be in conflict with people you do not know or do not ever meet.
WorldDenver
On August 20, WorldDenver was joined by over 200 attendees, including 6 international visitors from Indonesia, to celebrate global engagement. This year’s event was focused on the impact of hosting international visitors to your home. A highlight from the event was when one participant, visiting from Indonesia on a government accountability project, shared her experience with home hospitality and its overall impact on her time in the United States. She noted how welcome she felt and how much she learned about the culture and the people here. Her kind and uplifting words captivated the audience and following her speech, fellow community members wanted to chat with all the international visitors about their experience in Colorado and the United States. This event displayed the communities’ engagement with international affairs and the importance of people-to-people connections to create cross-cultural understanding.
WorldMontana
Following a relaxing afternoon boat ride on the Missouri River, WorldMontana brought their Polish guests to the home of Tatiana Lukenbill, a Program Coordinator with WorldMontana. They were greeted with BBQ pork and beef, brisket sandwiches, salads, fresh Flathead cherries, assorted fruits, and lively conversation. The dinner was a unique opportunity for the Polish visitors to experience Montana’s community, state, and history. Keri Goodwin, a WorldMontana board member, shared her insights on the event: “My 13-year-old son and I enjoyed our community dinner with the group from Poland earlier this summer…It was eye-opening for my son to see how multilingual other countries are.” Since the group was leaving the next day, WorldMontana volunteers prepared sandwiches for the visitors to take with them as a meal for their flight.
WorldOregon
This past summer, WorldOregon, together with its board, hosted a Dinner Diplomacy event featuring an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) group from Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand. The delegation focused on Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development in the Mekong Region. The evening offered a valuable opportunity for WorldOregon’s Board to gain a deeper understanding of IVLP through one-on-one conversations with visitors. This engagement also enriched the visitors’ time in Oregon, by providing warm hospitality and the space for the visitors to make new connections. These types of gatherings are important to create mutual understanding between people and a more peaceful world through travel and global connections.