The Irregular Warfare Initiative (IWI) and Special Operations Association of America (SOAA) hosted the South America in Competition Conference at Carahsoft HQ, Reston, VA on July 16–17.
Over two days, we welcomed more than 250 participants, including military leaders, policymakers, technologists, and academics. Together, we explored challenges and innovations at the intersection of economic statecraft, space and cyber operations, adversary networks and emerging technology.
Attendees benefited from a compelling keynote by Alberto Jose Mejia Ferrero, former Commander of the Colombian Military Forces, as well as engaging panels led by senior U.S. defense officials.
The IWI Wargaming Team, led by Umar Ahmed Badami, guided over 100 participants from 15 agencies, as well as leaders from the financial and tech sectors, through a crisis simulation designed to counter a PRC influence campaign. This proof-of-concept exercise demonstrated how whole-of-society coordination can advance U.S. strategic objectives in the region.
Stay tuned for details on another high-impact event currently in planning. Space will be limited, so sign up for our newsletter to be the first to know!
Thank you to the Conference sponsors: Carahsoft, Onebrief, CenCore, SpyCloud, Atreides, Vannevar Labs, Two Six Technologies, Flashpoint, and WireScreen.
Together, let’s keep building bridges across agencies, sectors, and borders!
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