DIPLOMACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS GALA 2025
A Tribute to Duty, Freedom, and International Diplomacy
Speakers
DR. ISABELLE VLADOIU
Founder, USIDHR
Dr. Isabelle Vladoiu is an award-winning expert in diplomatic protocol, international human rights, and global security. As the founder of the US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights (USIDHR), she has trained more than 20,000 professionals worldwide—including diplomats, policymakers, executives, and government officials—on international protocol, business etiquette, cross-cultural communication, and diplomatic leadership.
With over a decade of experience in public diplomacy and NGO diplomacy, Dr. Vladoiu has built a global reputation in Washington, DC, and beyond for helping leaders navigate high-level international environments with confidence and cultural intelligence. Her work has been recognized by two Presidents of the United States, earning both the President’s Volunteer Service Award (2018) and the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award (2022).
A respected scholar and author, Dr. Vladoiu holds a Doctorate in Global Security, a Juris Doctor, and an LL.M. in International Human Rights Law, with additional studies in Public Diplomacy and Economic Diplomacy. She has collaborated with the United Nations, UNICEF, the World Bank, and the Organization of American States, and her bestselling book Business Etiquette Secrets is widely regarded as a practical guide for global professionals.
MANUEL OANCIA
President, USIDHR
Manuel Oancia is a humanitarian, diplomatic expert, entrepreneur, and international business strategist with a distinguished career in fostering global collaboration. As President of the US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights (USIDHR), he has expanded its operations to 136 countries, advocating for human rights, social justice, and diplomacy worldwide. In his role, Manuel serves as a liaison with the U.S. Department of State and governments around the world strengthening partnerships that drive impactful global initiatives.
Actively engaged with the diplomatic community in Washington, DC, and internationally, he is a sought-after speaker at high-level forums and summits, where he shares insights on international relations and development. Throughout his career, Manuel has collaborated with the Obama and Trump administrations to enhance global partnerships and support diplomatic efforts on issues such as trade agreements and religious freedom. In recognition of his lifelong dedication to service, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from President Biden in 2023.
His work embodies a deep commitment to building a more connected, equitable, and peaceful world..
H.E. Gediminas Varvuolis
Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania
H.E. Gediminas Varvuolis is a distinguished Lithuanian diplomat and seasoned transatlantic strategist, currently serving as the Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to the United States of America. With nearly three decades of experience in diplomacy, security policy, and international cooperation, he has been instrumental in advancing Lithuania’s foreign policy priorities and strengthening its partnerships across Europe, Asia, and North America. His career reflects an enduring commitment to dialogue, security, and global connectivity.
Prior to his appointment in Washington, Ambassador Varvuolis served as Ambassador at Large for Connectivity and the Three Seas Initiative, promoting regional infrastructure and energy cooperation to enhance transatlantic resilience. He previously held posts as Ambassador of Lithuania to Japan (also accredited to New Zealand, Australia, and ASEAN institutions) and Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium, with concurrent accreditation to Luxembourg and Algeria. Earlier in his career, he directed Lithuania’s Department of Transatlantic Cooperation and Security Policy, served as Deputy Head of Mission to NATO, and represented his country in France and other European institutions.
A recipient of the Knight’s Cross of the Order “For Merits to Lithuania”, the French Order of Merit, and Lithuania’s Medal “For Merits” for civilians, Ambassador Varvuolis is recognized for his leadership in strengthening NATO cooperation and promoting peace and stability. Fluent in English, French, and Russian, and conversant in several other languages, he continues to represent Lithuania with distinction, dedication, and a forward-looking vision of transatlantic partnership.
H.E. Sven Alkalaj
Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina
H.E. Sven Alkalaj is a distinguished Bosnian diplomat and international statesman, currently serving as the Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the United States. With decades of diplomatic and governmental experience, Ambassador Alkalaj has played a pivotal role in shaping Bosnia and Herzegovina’s foreign policy and strengthening its international presence. His extensive career in diplomacy reflects his lifelong commitment to fostering peace, cooperation, and sustainable development at the global level.
Prior to his current post in Washington, Ambassador Alkalaj served as Permanent Representative of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the United Nations from 2019 to 2023 and was previously appointed as the Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2007 to 2012—the longest-serving foreign minister in the country’s history. His tenure was marked by advancing Bosnia and Herzegovina’s integration with European and international institutions, promoting dialogue across the Western Balkans, and deepening multilateral partnerships.
Ambassador Alkalaj also held the position of Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), where he worked to enhance regional cooperation and economic growth across Europe, Eastern Europe, and the Commonwealth of Independent States. His leadership and vision continue to strengthen Bosnia and Herzegovina’s voice in global affairs, earning him recognition as one of the region’s most respected diplomats and advocates for international collaboration and regional stability.
H.E. Mohamed Abdalla Idris
Ambassador of the Republic of Sudan
H.E. Mohamed Abdalla Idris is an accomplished diplomat and humanitarian leader, currently serving as the Ambassador of the Republic of Sudan to the United States of America. With extensive experience in international relations, global health, and humanitarian affairs, Ambassador Idris has been a driving force in strengthening Sudan’s diplomatic presence and fostering constructive engagement with the international community. His work reflects a deep commitment to building bridges through cooperation, understanding, and shared progress.
Throughout his distinguished career, Ambassador Idris has championed Sudan’s partnerships in global health and development, leading collaborative efforts with international institutions, governments, and NGOs to address pressing challenges such as infectious disease prevention, healthcare infrastructure, and humanitarian relief. His efforts have played a key role in positioning Sudan as an active partner in advancing regional stability and sustainable development across Africa and beyond.
Fluent in multiple languages and known for his strategic insight and diplomatic skill, Ambassador Idris combines a strong sense of national service with a humanitarian vision. His leadership emphasizes that diplomacy, when guided by compassion and collaboration, can serve as a powerful instrument for global health equity and peacebuilding—embodying the values of partnership, resilience, and international solidarity.