NNIC Mandela Day Global Expo 2024

The University of Nevada, Reno’s Northern Nevada International Center (NNIC), a nonprofit leading northern Nevada’s global engagement through refugee resettlement, language access and translation services and international exchange programs, will host its second Northern Nevada International Center Global Expo on July 16 as part of Artown from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at the University’s Quad. International visitors coming to northern Nevada through NNIC programs will showcase country-specific information, and display traditions, artwork, fashion, music and recipes from across the globe at the event. The Global Expo is also confirming participation for performances from local community groups.

NNIC is in its 25th year of operation in 2024 and, as part of its international exchange operations, hosts hundreds of international visitors from across the globe through various programs. Visitors participating in the Global Expo include participants from the Mandela Washington Fellowship, the flagship program of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), which empowers young African leaders through academic coursework, leadership, training, mentoring, networking, professional opportunities and local community engagement. Additional Global Expo participants include those international delegates from the Youth Leadership Program with Algeria, Study of the US Institutes (SUSI) Rule of Law program and SUSI Global Student Leaders on Climate Change and the Environment. In 2023, the event also incorporated performances from Reno Taiko and Tsurunokai Taiko drumming groups and the Reno Sparks Indian Colony (RSIC) Pow Wow Dance Group.  

“NNIC works diligently to bridge gaps in understanding of other cultures and peoples in myriad ways, and the Global Expo is a perfect example of a simple but powerful event that can illuminate what life is like for others in different corners of our shared world,” said Dr. Carina Black, executive director at NNIC. “Whether you’re a student or simply an interested citizen, we invite you to explore and learn about our friends from other countries.” 

Every year, NNIC engages in dozens of exchange programs, hosting hundreds of international delegates each year. In 2023 the nonprofit hosted more than 345 visitors from 91 countries. NNIC also operates its Language Bank, which provides interpretation and translation services to hundreds of individuals and entities every year. Additionally, the nonprofit’s refugee resettlement department has resettled more than 730 refugees since beginning this work in 2016. It is the only refugee resettlement agency in northern Nevada, and the only resettlement agency that holds a formal relationship with an institution of higher education. 

While the event is free, organizers encourage RSVPing so they can plan accordingly. 

Host or Publisher Northern Nevada International Center