Afrika Konnect LV 2025: Building Bridges Between Mali, the U.S., and the Diaspora
- Isabelle Karamooz
- Sep 25
- 3 min read
On September 12, 2025, the Plaza Hotel in Las Vegas transformed into a hub of dialogue, opportunity, and global connection during Afrika Konnect LV 2025. The event brought together more than 150 leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and innovators from across the African Diaspora and beyond, with an electrifying energy that turned a conference into a true engine for collaboration.
Among the distinguished guests were H.E. Ambassador Sékou Berthe, Ambassador of Mali to the United States, and H.E. Ambassador Rachna Korhonen, U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Mali, whose presence underscored the deepening ties between the two nations.
Photo Credits: Bakary Coulibaly – the President of the Malian Diaspora of Las Vegas
Fireside Chat: Bridging Communities
The program featured a Fireside Chat and Q&A session moderated by Dijana Mitrovic, who guided the conversation with clarity and warmth. She later reflected on the session, noting:“Afrika Konnect is not just about business—it’s about people. The conversations we shared in Las Vegas reminded us that collaboration and mutual respect are the true foundations of growth, both here in the U.S. and abroad.”
Ambassador Berthe’s Inspiring Vision
During his keynote, Ambassador Berthe emphasized Mali’s role as both a cultural beacon and an emerging economic partner. He spoke passionately about creating stronger bridges between Africa and the United States, encouraging entrepreneurs and policymakers to work hand in hand.“Mali is rich not only in history, but in potential,” Ambassador Berthe shared. “By investing in education, innovation, and entrepreneurship, we are shaping a future that honors our heritage while creating opportunities for generations to come. Afrika Konnect embodies this vision of unity and progress.”
A U.S. Perspective: Ambassador Rachna Korhonen
Equally impactful was the presence of Ambassador Rachna Korhonen, who highlighted the importance of deepening U.S.-Mali relations. She praised events like Afrika Konnect for bringing communities together and strengthening cultural and economic understanding.“When people come together in dialogue, new possibilities emerge,” Ambassador Korhonen noted. “The partnership between Mali and the United States is built on mutual respect, and through platforms like Afrika Konnect, we are able to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and people-to-people connections.”
A Day of Networking and Impact
The collective spirit in the room was undeniable—this was more than networking; it was about building long-term partnerships and sparking collaborations that can ripple far beyond Las Vegas.
As I reflect on this powerful day, I am filled with gratitude for the experience and the connections made. If you were there and we didn’t cross paths, I invite you to reach out—let’s continue building together.
Photo 2: Dijana Mitrovic – Moderator of the Fireside Chat at Afrika Konnect LV 2025 & Isabelle Karamooz – Publisher of FQM Media (French Quarter Magazine)
Photo 3: H.E. Ambassador Sékou Berthe – Ambassador of Mali to the United States & Isabelle Karamooz – Publisher of FQM Media (French Quarter Magazine)
About Afrika Konnect
Afrika Konnect is a global platform dedicated to strengthening ties between Africa, the African Diaspora, and international partners. Through its conferences, cultural showcases, and networking opportunities, Afrika Konnect fosters dialogue in business, technology, education, and cultural exchange. By convening leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, it seeks to create sustainable growth and meaningful collaboration across borders.
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