The United States has a growing talent gap due to an aging boomer population retiring and leaving the workforce. This gap 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 are constantly faced with the challenge of obtaining employment in areas that utilize their skill sets, and they often experience increased devaluation of their professional experiences.
The African Immigrant Professional Development Conference (AIPDC) was established in 2018 based on the dissertation findings of Dr. S Miata Getaweh. The 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. The conference will also assist in the development and enhancement of meaningful networking relationships to help build participants’ social capital.
The African Immigrant Professional Development Conference (AIPDC) was established in 2018 based on the dissertation findings of Dr. S Miata Getaweh. The 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. The conference will also assist in the development and enhancement of meaningful networking relationships to help build participants’ social capital.
Why Should You Attend AIPDC?
- The AIPDC is like no other, we believe that African immigrants have been at a disadvantage in their career development due to lack of resources specifically designed for this population.
- This conference was designed with African immigrant professionals at the heart and centered, every aspect of this conference is designed with the overall objective of assisting African immigrants achieve career success
- We believe that there are many African immigrants who have successfully navigated the American labor market, however, African immigrants do not have a strong network of professionals to leverage our influence. Through this conference, we hope to connect professionals and start the process of building a network of African professionals that will help us grow and develop in our respective roles.
- This conference will give you the opportunity to hear about other African immigrants' journey, in hopes of inspiring you to be and do more.
Through panel discussions and break out sessions, you will learn:
- How to deal with challenges of racism, bias, prejudices , and navigating culture differences in the workplace
- Navigating the workplace as an African Immigrant Professional
- The role of self-efficacy in career development
- How to develop influential networks that lead to managerial success
- Practical interviewing and job seeking skills
