Xiamen and Beijing, China (September 8, 2020) — The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) — a global network of more than 320 highly-connected, mutually supportive businesses and organizations — is pleased to announce its participation in two leading international platforms in trade and investment — the 2020 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) in Beijing, China from September 4-9, 2020 and the 2020 China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT) in Xiamen, China from September 8-11, 2020. The former, CIFTIS, will focus on fast-growing and emerging areas of service trade, and is hosted by the China Ministry of Commerce and Beijing Municipal Government. The latter, CIFIT, will focus on connecting investors, traders, service providers and government agencies to China and the rest of the world, and is hosted by the China Ministry of Commerce.

“On behalf of the WTCA, it is our pleasure to participate and have significant presence in not one but two leading international platforms in global investment and trade this week,” said Mr. Robin van Puyenbroeck, Executive Director-Business Development of WTCA. “For the past five years, we have supported CIFTIS as a major international partner to showcase trade in services around the world. And for the past nine years, we have supported CIFIT’s commitment to the promotion of global investment and trade through organized trade missions. In today's world where we see a new form of globalization unfolding, a digital globalization, the ability for people around the world to connect with one another in a trusted environment has become an essential business necessity. Through platforms such as CIFTIS and CIFIT, we have the opportunity to create and strengthen connections and interaction with the Chinese market as well as others around the world.”

The WTCA will be co-hosting a forum at CIFTIS in partnership with the Cooperative Alliance of China Association of Trade in Services. Titled “Smart Office Interconnection Development Forum,” the event will begin with opening remarks from Mr. van Puyenbroeck and feature case studies by local companies; a panel discussion with Mr. Wei Kai of China WTC and other panelists; and an MOU signing ceremony for WTC Shenyang and other companies. The event will conclude with networking and business matchmaking sessions. Attendees expected include 26 representatives from China WTC, WTC Beijing, WTC Harbin, WTC Jinzhong, WTC Quanzhou, WTC Singapore, WTC Tianjin and WTC Xian.

Further, the WTCA will co-host two events at CIFIT, showcasing its global network and brand through roundtables, forums, and matchmaking sessions. First, in partnership with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and the CIFIT Organizing Committee, the WTCA will co-host the “Summit of World Business Leaders’ Roundtable,” which will focus on the theme of “Artificial Intelligence Changes the Future.” In addition to WTCA, speakers will include executives from Alibaba, Baidu, Golden Home, Huawei, the Institute of Computing Technology of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Meiya Pico, Pingan Intelligent City Solution, TAIDA, Uisee and Unisound. Second, in partnership with CCPIT Fujian, the Fujian Provincial Department of Commerce and the Bank of China (Fujian Branch), the WTCA will co-host the “Maritime Silk Road International Economic and Trade Cooperation Matchmaking Symposium” focusing on the preparation of Fujian’s participation in the upcoming Expo 2020 Dubai. Mr. Ghazi Abu Nahl, Chairman Emeritus of the WTCA, will also provide comments at CIFIT’s International Investment Forum.

“While this year’s events are a bit different due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I’d like to extend our sincere thanks to all of the participants, our partners in China and the organizers of both events for making this event possible despite the challenges, and look forward to a successful outcome,” stated Mr. van Puyenbroeck.

MEDIA CONTACT:

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
Chanelle Kasik
Phone: +1 212 432 2644
Email: ckasik@wtca.org

About World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 320 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in nearly 100 countries. As the owner of the “World Trade Center” and “WTC” trademarks, the WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for Members to use in conjunction with their independently-owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its Members, the goal of the WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe through Member engagement. To learn more visit www.wtca.org.

NEW YORK, NY – September 2, 2020 – The World Trade Centers Association Foundation (WTCAF) is proud to announce Savannah, Georgia-based Foster Beelief as winner of its second annual “Peace Through Trade” Competition, a platform dedicated to identify and inspire the next generation of young leaders to improve the world through entrepreneurial projects.

The competition provides the World Trade Centers Association’s (WTCA) global network of 322 cities with an opportunity to submit projects on behalf of the students of their communities that address 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

“In its second year, the WTCAF Peace Through Trade Competition received an enthusiastic response that resulted in quality submissions of innovative projects from student teams around the world,” stated Catherine Lee, Chair of the WTCAF Board of Directors. “We would like to thank all participants for their valuable contribution to this year’s competition, and send a special word of gratitude for the incredible support from so many WTCs around the world. It is because of their participation, that we are able to fulfill our mission of bringing peace through trade.” 

“The WTCAF Board selected Foster Beelief as this year’s winning team based on their project’s focus on promoting and developing sustainable farming activities, on promoting ethical international business practices, and on its research orientation and global perspective in addressing a specific environmental issue,” stated Lee. “We are excited for the team to share their vision with the WTCA community and to progress their project further with the support of our global network. Congratulations again to Foster Beelief and the two other finalist teams of this year’s competition.” 

This year, WTC Savannah submitted the winning team. Founded by Savannah State University students Sade Shofidiya, Jennyfer Dayan Vivas Gomez and Karen Perez, Foster Beelief works to promote sustainability through the education of the at-risk honeybee population, increasing STEM interests and environmental stewardship, building stronger industry and community partnerships, and increasing citizen involvement in communities. The winning student team will present their project and engage with the WTCA members at the 2021 WTCA General Assembly — the association’s annual meeting of more than 500 representatives from member WTCs, foreign trade delegations, and local companies. 

“We are honored to be first place and we look forward to presenting in front of the WTCA General Assembly! This is our time, to be the change the world needs and open doors of opportunity for marginalized groups to learn and engage in sustainable practices. We are one planet, and like the honeybees, we are one hive. We believe in a world of environmental and social justice, and we will continue to strive until there is a universal network of caring people that are changing our world for the better,” Sade Shofidiya, Founder and CEO of Foster Beelief.

“We are so proud of the Foster Beelief team,” said Scott Center, WTCA Board Member representing WTC Savannah. “Their project is vitally important, and it is absolutely remarkable how this endeavor tackles so many issues troubling our world today head on. Health, environment, poverty, immune systems, nutrition and urban food deserts are all addressed through the Foster Beelief initiative.”

This year’s first runner-up team is ReNu Hygienics, submitted by WTC Winnipeg. Led by University of Calgary and York University students Parker Easter and Silas Lee, ReNu Hygienics focuses on upcycling bars of soap from soap that would have otherwise been thrown out by local hotels, and providing them to those less fortunate who need them. The second runner-up team is Agro-preneurs, submitted by WTC Mumbai. Led by students Ishita Joshi, Ashi Gala, Karan Patil and Kalpesh Patil, Agro-preneurs aims to bridge the gap between farmers and investors all over the world, providing farmers with the best quality resources to yield the best quality harvest through capital from investors.

For more information about the WTCAF and its annual Peace Through Trade Competition, visit www.wtcafoundation.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
Chanelle Kasik
Phone: +1 212 432 2644
Email: ckasik@wtca.org

About World Trade Centers Association Foundation
The World Trade Centers Association Foundation (WTCAF) is a private, U.S. tax-exempt, charitable organization (501c) founded in 2008, the mission of which is to conduct programs that promote social welfare in the pursuit and support of activities that foster peace and social stability. The WTCAF makes a difference by encouraging a better understanding of international trade; promoting and developing sustainable farming, energy, and transportation and trading activities; elevating the standard of living in less developed countries; and promoting ethical international business practices. To learn more visit www.wtcafoundation.org.

About World Trade Centers Association
The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 320 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in nearly 100 countries. As the owner of the “World Trade Center” and “WTC” trademarks, the WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for Members to use in conjunction with their independently-owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its Members, the goal of the WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe through Member engagement. To learn more visit www.wtca.org.

NEW YORK, NY – June 3, 2020 – The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), an international non-profit trade association with member “World Trade Centers” around the world, has named Robin van Puyenbroeck as its new Executive Director-Business Development.

Mr. van Puyenbroeck has more than 20 years’ experience in international business development, corporate strategy, and non-profit leadership. He most recently served as Vice President-Business Development for Ethan Allen Global, based in Danbury, Connecticut, where he effectively managed and grew a network of international licensees and developed strategies for building B2B contact business.

Previously, Mr. van Puyenbroeck was a partner at Strategy XXI Partners and Executive Director of Global Partnerships Forum in New York, International Coordinator for The Pearl Initiative in the United Arab Emirates, and a corporate banker for the ING Group, where he worked in a variety of management and analyst positions in New York, Amsterdam, Brussels, and Toronto. Mr. van Puyenbroeck began his career as an attorney for the Ernst & Young law firm in Brussels, and he holds J.D. and LL.M degrees in international law from Ghent University and Université Libre de Bruxelles in Belgium.

Mr. van Puyenbroeck has leadership experience in the IGO/NGO sector, including his current roles as Under-Secretary-General for the EUCLID Intergovernmental Organization, and as Executive Vice President & Treasurer of the United Nations Association of New York. He speaks five languages (Dutch, English, French, Spanish and German) and has traveled extensively on business in Europe, the Middle East, Central and Greater Asia, and North America.

WTCA’s Chairman, John E. Drew, said the association selected Mr. van Puyenbroeck “based on his successful experience in developing effective global business operations and licensing partnerships, including working with project developers, and implementing innovative strategies for expanding and promoting an international global brand.” Mr. Drew said Mr. van Puyenbroeck “has an excellent track record in creating partnerships, and supporting and growing a network of international licensees, which will help ensure the WTCA’s continuing relevance in the ever changing world of international trade and project development.”

“I am excited about joining the association’s global team and working with its Board of Directors and Regional Advisory Councils to strengthen and expand the WTCA’s network of members; there is tremendous potential,” said Mr. van Puyenbroeck. “I have long been familiar with ‘World Trade Center’ as a trusted global brand facilitating international business connections. I believe that now, more than ever, the mission and role of the WTCA and its members are critical for promoting international trade and investment in our global economy.”

Founded in 1969, the World Trade Centers Association has grown from 15 original members to more than 320 members who are licensed by the WTCA to operate “World Trade Center” branded facilities in more than 90 countries.

Mr. van Puyenbroeck will assume his Executive Director-Business Development responsibilities on June 15 at WTCA’s headquarters in New York. He will join Arun Manansingh, WTCA’s Executive Director-Corporate Services, and Joanne Thelmo, WTCA’s Corporate Counsel, in leading the Headquarters and regional staff operations.

MEDIA CONTACT:

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
Chanelle Kasik
Phone: +1 212 432 2644
Email: ckasik@wtca.org

About World Trade Centers Association

The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 325 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in nearly 100 countries. As the owner of the “World Trade Center” and “WTC” trademarks, the WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for Members to use in conjunction with their independently-owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its Members, the goal of the WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe through Member engagement. To learn more visit www.wtca.org.

NEW YORK, NY – January 6, 2020 – The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) — a global network of more than 325 highly-connected, mutually supportive businesses and organizations — is currently assisting nearly 20 WTCs from around the world with coordinating member trade delegations to attend CES 2020 through the WTCA Delegate Program, the first mission of its kind developed by the association’s “Trade Services Member Advisory Council (MAC)” and the “Conventions & Exhibitions MAC.” The initiative is led by World Trade Center (WTC) Las Vegas, a partnership between the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) and the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, owner and producer of CES®, the world’s largest and most influential global technology event. 

World Trade Centers (WTCs) from across the globe – including members from the United States, Canada, China, India, South Korea, Mexico, France, Ghana and Panama – will attend the event to connect with trade partners and identify investment opportunities. Multiple member delegations will bring companies from their respective countries to CES to connect them with business partners and showcase their services to encourage future trade and investment. WTC Las Vegas assisted all attending WTCs with delegate registrations, visa letters and promotion of the program to member and community businesses in advance of this year’s event.

“CES is the world’s leading technology event bringing together top CEOs and executives from around the globe, which is a natural fit for the nature of the World Trade Centers Association,” said World Trade Center Las Vegas CEO, Chris Meyer. “It’s a great honor for World Trade Center Las Vegas to work with our partners across the network to support the value of face-to-face meetings for driving business forward.” 

Approximately 150 attendees and exhibitors will take part in the WTCA Delegate Program. Companies attending include ActiBioMotion (via WTC Tampa Bay), Den Smart Home and Vidinexus (via WTC Twente), Meta-Biomed (via WTC Seoul) and Promo Ocean (via WTC Noida), and cover a range of industries including augmented reality, wearables, blockchain and education technology. 

“The World Trade Centers Association allows members and their member companies to connect globally and prosper locally,” said WTCA Chair, Board of Directors, John E. Drew. “With WTC Las Vegas’ expertise and support, we are able to fulfill that mission, leveraging our unique network to give members and businesses the chance to engage with the top technology companies in the world.”

WTC Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce — partners working together to advance business relationships and maximize economic opportunities stemming from international business visitors coming to Las Vegas — will host a private reception for members of the Delegate Program prior to the start of CES, featuring WTCA Board Member and WTC Winnipeg President and CEO, Mariette Mulaire. The program also includes a special breakfast event on January 9 where Gary Shapiro, President and CEO of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), will deliver a keynote speech. He will be joined by WTC Las Vegas CEO, Chris Meyer, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority CEO and President, Steve Hill, and WTCA Board Member and WTC Panama Executive Director, Remy Swaab. CES 2020, the world’s leading technology event which attracts 175,000 attendees from 160 countries, will take place from January 7-10, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

World Trade Centers Association
Chanelle Kasik
Phone: +1 212 432 2644
Email: ckasik@wtca.org 

Allison+Partners
Eliot Marcus
Phone: +1 617 401 2277
Email: wtca@allisonpr.com 

About World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 325 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in nearly 100 countries. As the owner of the “World Trade Center” and “WTC” trademarks, the WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for Members to use in conjunction with their independently-owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its Members, the goal of the WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe through Member engagement. To learn more visit www.wtca.org.

NEW YORK, NY – December 2, 2019 – Today, the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) unveiled its “WTCA Champions Awards,” or “Champies,” for short, a new awards program designed to recognize excellence throughout its global network. Nominations for these awards will open in early 2020, and the inaugural winners will be presented at the WTCA’s 51st annual General Assembly (GA) Gala in Taipei.

“The Champions Awards are an opportunity to recognize the members who make the World Trade Centers Association network such a tremendous resource for local businesses and communities, and for each other,” said WTCA CEO Scott Ferguson. “Not only will the program recognize our Association’s ‘champions,’ but it will also help provide visibility to the important and innovative work of our members that is driving the future of global trade and investment.”

WTCA members are invited to nominate fellow members — be it an individual staff Member, or the entire team at a Member WTC — for their contributions in any of the following five categories, including:

• Champion Award for Connectivity: Member who most exemplifies the concept of connecting local businesses to global trade opportunities
• Champion Award for Reciprocity: Member who most exemplifies the concept of reciprocity and/or cooperation on joint projects
• Champion Award for Network Support: Member who most exemplifies the concept of helping fellow members with their challenges
• Champion Award for Sustainability: Member who most exemplifies action in one or more of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals
• Champion Award for Member of the Year: Member who most exemplifies the values, vision, mission, and goals of the Association

WTCA members will nominate potential honorees through a submission form, whereby they will provide a brief description of why a given WTC or staff person deserves to be recognized. Finalists will be announced in February 2020 and winners will be selected by a Board panel by March 1, 2020.

All winners will be honored onstage during the 2020 GA Gala in Taipei, and awarded a physical statuette along with a free registration for them and an accompanying guest to the subsequent 2021 GA in Accra, Ghana. They will also be individually profiled in a special “Champies” section in the WTCA publication, WTCA Meridian, and across the WTCA’s social media channels and Member e-blasts. Additionally, winners and finalists alike will be provided with marketing support to help drive awareness of their achievement. 

To stay up to date on the Champions Awards program, please follow the WTCA on social media using the hashtags #WTCAChampion and #WTCA50:

• Facebook: World Trade Centers Association

• Twitter: @WTCA

• LinkedIn: World Trade Centers Association

• YouTube: World Trade Centers Association

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
Alex Brown
Phone: +1 212 432 2605
Email: abrown@wtca.org

About the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 325 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in nearly 100 countries. As the owner of the “World Trade Center” and “WTC” trademarks, the WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for Members to use in conjunction with their independently-owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its Members, the goal of the WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe through Member engagement. To learn more visit www.wtca.org.