WHAT IS AIPDC  CONFERENCE?

Intentional Success: Resilience in the Midst of Uncertainty!

The United States has a growing talent gap due to an aging boomer population retiring and leaving the workforce. This makes it critical to strengthen the capabilities of populations such as immigrants, to contribute to economic vitality. Research shows that in comparison to other immigrant groups, African immigrants have been identified as having a higher number of bachelors' degrees or higher level of education completed in their countries of origin. Still, African immigrants often face the challenge of obtaining employment in areas that use their skill sets, and they start in the United States as underemployed.

The African Immigrant Professional Development Conference (AIPDC) was established in 2018 based on the dissertation findings of Dr. S Miata Getaweh. AIPDC Conference was created to provide African immigrant professionals and students with skills and resources to attain professional success. AIPDC believes that through this gathering, African immigrants can exchange ideas, experiences, and learn from others who have successfully navigated the American labor market. It will also assist in the development and enhancement of meaningful networking relationships to help build participants’ social capital.

The 3rd Annual AIPDC was held on Saturday, September 19, 2020, as a Virtual Conference!  The theme for conference was "Intentional Success: Resilience in the Midst of Uncertainty." Anisa Hajimumim, Assistant Commissioner for Immigrant and Refugee Affairs at MN Department of Employment and Economic Development, will served as the Keynote Speaker.

African are known for their resilience; with so many changes and chaos in the world, we need to build on our resiliency in our jobs, careers, professional, and personal endeavors. Through speakers and workshops, AIPDC2020 will provided participants with tools to navigate these changes and strives in their careers.