Afomiya Ayalew Mitiku, MA student in Global African Studies specializing in Diplomacy and Africa’s International Relations at The Africa Institute, Global Studies University, served as Program Manager and Master of Ceremony at the Young Artists Forum – Istanbul 2026, held March 23–26, 2026. Organized by the Center for Strategy and Cultural Diplomacy, the forum brought together an international community of artists, scholars, and thinkers to explore the intersections of art, diplomacy, identity, and global transformation.
Reflecting on her experience, Afomiya said, “Stepping into these roles allowed me to directly shape the program and create a space where a diverse community of artists, thinkers, and scholars could explore the intersections of art, diplomacy, identity, and global transformation.”
She added, “From leading program coordination behind the scenes to facilitating panel discussions on stage, it was an incredibly rewarding experience to contribute to a platform where creativity and strategy come together with purpose. This opportunity was a gentle reminder of how quickly growth can unfold when you stay engaged and committed to the work you care about.”
Afomiya’s participation follows her engagement at the Young Cultural Diplomacy Forum (YCDF) Bali 2025, where she presented her working paper, “Beyond the ‘Post’: Coloniality, Sovereignty, and Global South Futures.” Her research examines the persistence of colonial structures alongside emerging forms of agency, situating Africa within broader Global South debates over sovereignty, identity, and cooperation.
Her work reflects a commitment to advancing Africa’s role in global affairs and contributing to scholarship and practice in diplomacy. Through her leadership at these international forums, Afomiya demonstrates the university’s dedication to preparing students to engage critically and constructively with global challenges.
The Center for Strategy and Cultural Diplomacy, a research and educational think tank, seeks to promote intercultural dialogue and public diplomacy among youth, fostering peace and collaboration through cultural understanding. Afomiya’s contributions exemplify how Global Studies University students actively participate in shaping these global conversations.
Afomiya Ayalew Mitiku, MA student in Global African Studies specializing in Diplomacy and Africa’s International Relations at The Africa Institute, Global Studies University, served as Program Manager and Master of Ceremony at the Young Artists Forum – Istanbul 2026, held March 23–26, 2026. Organized by the Center for Strategy and Cultural Diplomacy, the forum brought together an international community of artists, scholars, and thinkers to explore the intersections of art, diplomacy, identity, and global transformation.
Afomiya Ayalew Mitiku, MA student in Global African Studies specializing in Diplomacy and Africa’s International Relations at The Africa Institute, Global Studies University, served as Program Manager and Master of Ceremony at the Young Artists Forum – Istanbul 2026, held March 23–26, 2026. Organized by the Center for Strategy and Cultural Diplomacy, the forum brought together an international community of artists, scholars, and thinkers to explore the intersections of art, diplomacy, identity, and global transformation.
Reflecting on her experience, Afomiya said, “Stepping into these roles allowed me to directly shape the program and create a space where a diverse community of artists, thinkers, and scholars could explore the intersections of art, diplomacy, identity, and global transformation.”
She added, “From leading program coordination behind the scenes to facilitating panel discussions on stage, it was an incredibly rewarding experience to contribute to a platform where creativity and strategy come together with purpose. This opportunity was a gentle reminder of how quickly growth can unfold when you stay engaged and committed to the work you care about.”
Afomiya’s participation follows her engagement at the Young Cultural Diplomacy Forum (YCDF) Bali 2025, where she presented her working paper, “Beyond the ‘Post’: Coloniality, Sovereignty, and Global South Futures.” Her research examines the persistence of colonial structures alongside emerging forms of agency, situating Africa within broader Global South debates over sovereignty, identity, and cooperation.
Her work reflects a commitment to advancing Africa’s role in global affairs and contributing to scholarship and practice in diplomacy. Through her leadership at these international forums, Afomiya demonstrates the university’s dedication to preparing students to engage critically and constructively with global challenges.
The Center for Strategy and Cultural Diplomacy, a research and educational think tank, seeks to promote intercultural dialogue and public diplomacy among youth, fostering peace and collaboration through cultural understanding. Afomiya’s contributions exemplify how Global Studies University students actively participate in shaping these global conversations.
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