Page

The Meridian Center for Culture and Sports Diplomacy

Harnessing the Power of Culture and Sports The Meridian Center for Culture and Sports Diplomacy mobilizes athletes, artists, and cultural leaders as global connectors—building trust, amplifying American values, and creating shared narratives across borders. In a world where traditional diplomacy has limits, culture and sport offer powerful platforms for influence, understanding, and cooperation. As the United States prepares to host major global events—including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, and the 250th anniversary of American independence—Meridian is helping shape the next era of U.S. soft power through strategic global engagement.

Why This Matters Culture and sport transcend politics and language. They unite people, foster empathy, and reshape how nations are seen. During moments of crisis or division, artistic and athletic exchange provides common ground—allowing global communities to connect through creativity, competition, and collaboration. Focus Areas Trust Through Exchange Deepening people-to-people diplomacy through cultural and athletic storytelling, performance, and creative collaboration.

Global Reach Through Culture Showcasing American values and creative innovation while empowering cultural institutions and artists to lead on the global stage. Sports as Strategic Diplomacy Using sport as a tool for youth engagement, community empowerment, and cross-border collaboration. Capabilities and Solutions Trainings & Exchanges Exhibitions Public-Private Partnerships Geopolitical Insights & Networks International and U.S.-based exchanges that connect artists, athletes, and cultural leaders to foster cross-cultural understanding.

View Past Exchanges Public storytelling and cultural programs that reflect global communities and elevate diplomatic narratives through the arts. Collaborations with embassies, sports federations, brands, and creative institutions to expand the reach and impact of U.S. cultural diplomacy. Expert dialogues featuring diplomats, artists, and athletes on the role of soft power in addressing global challenges and building international cooperation.

Trainings & Exchanges International and U.S.-based exchanges that connect artists, athletes, and cultural leaders to foster cross-cultural understanding. View Past Exchanges Exhibitions Public storytelling and cultural programs that reflect global communities and elevate diplomatic narratives through the arts. Public-Private Partnerships Collaborations with embassies, sports federations, brands, and creative institutions to expand the reach and impact of U.S. cultural diplomacy.

Geopolitical Insights & Networks Expert dialogues featuring diplomats, artists, and athletes on the role of soft power in addressing global challenges and building international cooperation. Inaugural Meridian Sports Diplomacy Forum Launching January 29, 2026, in Washington, DC, the Meridian Sports Diplomacy Forum will bring together industry leaders, investors, policymakers, and cultural influencers to examine the growing power of sports as a driver of economic growth, community development, and global engagement.

The Forum features: High-impact conversations with experts across government, business, sports, and culture Strategic networking that connects partners across sectors and markets Insights into the Decade of American Sports Diplomacy , including the FIFA World Cup, LA28 Olympics, and the 2034 Salt Lake City Winter Games As the United States prepares to host a historic slate of global sporting events, Meridian highlights the role of sports as a strategic asset—opening markets, shaping culture, building trust, and advancing American leadership on the world stage.

Learn more about the Meridian Sports Diplomacy Forum Culturefix Photo by Oskar Dap. Photo by Jessica Latos. Photo by Oskar Dap. Photo by Jessica Latos. Culturefix is Meridian’s annual celebration of cultural diplomacy and the transformative power of sports and the arts. The hybrid event features: Morning Conversations with artists, diplomats, and cultural leaders An evening awards ceremony honoring the recipients of the Meridian Cultural Diplomacy Awards Performances and storytelling that spotlight the role of arts and sport in global connection Learn more About Culturefix Upcoming Events Please check back soon for upcoming events from the Center for Culture and Sports Diplomacy.

Recent Programs The New Power Play and Presentation of the 2026 Meridian Global Leadership Award... Guardian of Antiquity: A Conversation with Dr. Zahi Hawass The Creative Vanguard & The Extraordinary Power of Presence Beyond the Podium: Competition, Culture, and Connection Design as Diplomacy: Shaping Culture and Soft Power Fashion’s Diplomatic Runway: A Conversation with Reem Acra More Leadership Elizabeth Duggal Chair, Meridian Center for Culture and Sports Diplomacy Terry K.

Harvey Meet the Cultural Diplomacy Leadership Council Get Involved From embassies and brands to artists and athletes—there’s a place for you in our global community. Join us in building trust, fostering creativity, and connecting the world through culture and sport. Contact Us .