Name: Nations at Play:The Power of Sport in Diplomacy
Start: 2026-05-13T18:30:00-07:00
End: 2026-05-13T20:30:00-07:00
Location: West Hollywood Aquatic & Recreation Center

Nations at Play:The Power of Sport in Diplomacy

Join us for an engaging discussion on Los Angeles's International role in FIFA and the LA28 Olympics.
About this Event

Join the Los Angeles World Affairs Council Young Professionals on Wednesday, May 13th from 6:30–8:30 PM for an evening conversation exploring the growing role of sports diplomacy in shaping global engagement, advancing social impact, and strengthening international relationships.

This timely discussion will examine how major sporting events, athletes, governments, and emerging technologies are increasingly used as tools of diplomacy—promoting inclusion, resilience, and cross‑cultural understanding on and off the field.

This event will bring together leaders working at the intersection of sport, government, technology, and global policy to discuss what sports diplomacy looks like today—and what it will mean for Los Angeles as it prepares to welcome the world.

Featured Panelists

Dr. Ashleigh Huffman

Global Expert in Sports Diplomacy and Social Impact

A former Sports Diplomacy Chief at the U.S. Department of State, Dr. Huffman is a leading voice on how sport can drive social change worldwide. Her work spans gender equity, disability inclusion, refugee integration, and youth policy, with experience across more than 125 countries.

Erin Bromaghim

Former Director of Olympic and Paralympic Development, City of Los Angeles

Erin Bromaghim previously led the City of Los Angeles’s Olympic and Paralympic development efforts, focusing on sustainability, inclusion, innovation, and long‑term community impact related to LA28. Her background includes extensive experience in national security and global policy, including service with the U.S. Department of Defense and NATO.

Joshua Shen

U.S. Foreign Service Officer

With deep expertise in sports diplomacy and digital engagement, Joshua Shen has led international exchange programs in partnership with professional leagues and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee. His work bridges sport, esports, and technology to connect global audiences, informed by his cross‑cultural background and diplomatic experience in Asia.