Lake Michigan College to Host Two-Day Speaker Series on Global Perspectives, Part of the Annual Celebration of International Education Week

BENTON HARBOR, MI – Lake Michigan College invites the public to a dynamic two-day event series featuring international experts discussing cross-cultural communication and Pan-Africanism. Both events are free and open to the community.  

Wednesday, November 19, 2025 

"The Benefits of Multiple Perspectives: Lessons from International Experts"  

The Unspoken Language of Success 

Ever wonder why a thumbs-up works in one country but offends in another? Or how the best leaders read the room without a single word being spoken? 

Join Shahid Akhtar, international marketing consultant, and Mehmet Çelikyay, Turkish TV host and communication expert, for real talk about:

• Cross-cultural mishaps that taught them everything – hear the stories they'll never forget 
• The silent signals that make or break international teamwork – body language, gestures, and the cues you're probably missing 

This isn't just a presentation – it's a conversation about why seeing the world through multiple lenses is your secret weapon for success. 

Event Details: 

• Date: Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025 
• Time: 10:00 a.m. 
• Location: Room D112, Lake Michigan College in Benton Harbor* 
• Format: Hybrid (in-person and via Zoom) 
• Cost: Free and open to the public
• Zoom link: To attend via Zoom, go to https://LakeMichiganCollege.zoom.us/j/92142728449, Meeting ID: 921 4272 8449

Thursday, November 20, 2025

"Pan Africanism: Different Voices, Similar Goals Across Africa" 10:00 a.m. | Room L310 and via Zoom 

This roundtable discussion will feature distinguished speakers joining via Zoom from Sierra Leone and other African locations. Discussants include: 

• Dr. Dominique Somda, Assistant Professor of Anthropology at Kalamazoo College
• Dr. Alhaji N'jai, Director, GHI One Health Center-West Africa 

The discussion will explore how diverse voices across the African continent unite around shared goals and visions within the Pan-African movement. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with experts, ask questions, and gain deeper insights into this important global discourse. 

A complimentary lunch will be provided following Thursday's culminating event. Please RSVP by Nov. 13 to Susan Wilczak at swilczak@lakemichigancollege.edu if you are planning to attend in person so we can plan accordingly for lunch.  

Event Details: 

• Date: Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025 
• Time: 10:00 a.m. 
• Location: Room L310, Lake Michigan College in Benton Harbor* 
• Format: Hybrid (in-person and via Zoom) 
• Cost: Free and open to the public
• Zoom link: To attend via Zoom, go to lakemichigancollege.zoom.us/j/94280039031, meeting ID 942 8003 9031. 

Both events offer hybrid attendance options, allowing community members to participate either in person or via Zoom. These programs provide unique opportunities to connect with international scholars and practitioners and gain valuable perspectives on global communication and collaboration. 

*LMC’s Benton Harbor Campus is at 2755 E. Napier Ave. in Benton, Harbor, MI. 

Lake Michigan College is a comprehensive community college serving Southwest Michigan since 1946. With locations in Benton Harbor, Niles, South Haven, and Allegan, LMC offers more than 80 academic programs. The College serves approximately 4,000 students annually and is committed to providing accessible, affordable, high-quality education and training that transforms lives and strengthens communities. For more information, visit www.lakemichigancollege.edu.