For the fifth straight year, a consortium of globally minded organizations is banding together to bring the world to Macon on the evening of Feb. 8, sharing stories and fostering connections that should boost commerce and culture in Middle Georgia. 

Local attorney Christopher N. Smith, who also serves as Denmark’s honorary consul in Georgia, is partnering again with international business news publication Global Atlanta for the statewide Global Trade and Investment Symposium, where a panel of business experts will unpack the intricate connections between the state and the global economy after a period of record trade and foreign investment. 

The evening discussion will be held at Pierce Chapel on the campus of Wesleyan College, the host each year since 2020, and will feature leading voices from across the state representing the countries, companies, and industries underpinning job-creating investment and keeping Georgia undeniably connected beyond U.S. borders.

This year will include a special focus on South Korea, whose companies are fueling an electric-vehicle boom resulting in transformative investment along the I-16 corridor and beyond and spurring auto supplier investment in Macon. 

Confirmed speakers include: 

Introductory remarks: Sanghoon Lee, Consul for Global Trade & Economic Affairs, Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Atlanta

Panel discussion moderated by Global Atlanta Managing Editor Trevor Williams:

• Jae Kim, President, Southeast US Korea Chamber of Commerce in Atlanta

• David Hughes, General Manager at Dinex Emission LLC in Dublin

• Christy Plott, Executive Director and “Queen of Alligator” at  American Tanning & Leather in Griffin

Confirmed attendees include diplomats representing at least 10 countries in Georgia, along with a cross-section of leaders in business, academia and economic development. During the previous four years, the symposium has regularly notched more than 100 registrants from all over the state who gather to enjoy a night of networking and knowledge. The panel will be followed by a reception with wine and hors d’oeuvres in Wesleyan’s Burden Parlor. 

Cost: $20, or $10 for prior-year attendees. Local media are welcome to attend and cover this on-the-record discussion, which will include a moderated Q&A. 

ENGAGE: 

• View speaker bios and register here – logistical details will be sent upon registration. 

• Download a full flyer

• Media Contact: Global Atlanta Managing Editor Trevor Williams at [email protected]

• Other questions: Global Atlanta Engagement Director Michal Jensby at [email protected]