Building a Global Network
In 1981, a transformative vision for the future of international business began to take shape. It was a time when forward-thinking leaders saw the potential for a new kind of organization—one that could bring together cultural and economic endeavors and empower business professionals to make a meaningful impact on a global scale. This vision was brought to life by Jim Crupi, with the support of Georgia Governor George Busbee and influential executives from Coca-Cola, Georgia State University, and Delta.
SIBF was born out of unique experiences right from the beginning as 26 pioneering Atlanta executives participated in an intensive two-week leadership program held in Atlanta and London. Inspired by this experience, they committed to continuing the SIBF experiment, laying the foundation for a robust network of business leaders dedicated to fostering international understanding and collaboration.
The organization quickly began making its mark. In 1983, SIBF members led to the establishment of the Atlanta International School, a testament to their commitment to global education. The following year, SIBF expanded beyond Atlanta, establishing its first chapter in Tampa, Florida. This marked the beginning of a dynamic period of growth and partnership.
SIBF’s collaboration with the International Management Institute further expanded its reach, extending the network to Dallas and beyond. Over the next two decades, SIBF’s presence grew exponentially across multiple states, fostering a vibrant community of leaders dedicated to global business and cultural engagement. This is where the creation of the global network truly began.
1981
A vision takes shape in Atlanta, Georgia
1983
Establishment of Atlanta
International School
1984
Expansion beyond Atlanta.
1st Chapter, Tampa, Florida
1995
SIBF expands to states around the country
2002
Launched Central Eurasia
Leadership Alliance (CELA)
2010
Launched Middle East
Leadership Association (MELA)
2013
Launched South East Asia
Leadership Alliance (SEALA)
2015
Launched North American
Leadership Alliance (NALA)
2024
SIBF continues to strengthen and grow their global impact
Formation of SIBF's Global Network
SIBF’s commitment to fostering global leadership took a monumental step forward with the formation of its Global Network Foundation. Partnering with the EastWest Institute, SIBF launched the Central Eurasia Leadership Alliance (CELA) in 2002, the Middle East Leadership Association (MELA) in 2010, the South East Asia Leadership Alliance (SEALA) in 2013, and SIBF’s own leadership academy, the North American Leadership Alliance (NALA) in 2015. Each of these regional networks features a leadership academy as the gateway for membership for emerging leaders. Together, they form the backbone of SIBF’s global network, which now spans over 45 countries and connects more than 2,000 members.
Meet Our Global Network
North American Leadership Alliance (NALA):
NALA is the leadership academy for SIBF, designed to elevate leadership skills, build strong relationships, and expand the organization across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. This transformative five-day program is a path to SIBF membership that connects rising leaders with established global network mentors. NALA offers access to innovative ideas, diverse perspectives, and top-tier leadership practices. Upon completion, graduates are invited to join SIBF as full members.
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Central Eurasia Leadership Alliance (CELA):
CELA stands as the premier network for leaders in Central Eurasia, dedicated to enhancing their leadership skills, expanding their professional networks, and amplifying their positive impact on families, businesses, and communities. The journey into CELA begins with a 10-day Leadership Academy, providing participants with one of the best globally available high-level executive education programs. These academies offer profound insights from business luminaries, educational speakers, and unique cultural experiences, setting the foundation for lifelong personal and professional growth.
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South East Asia Leadership Alliance (SEALA):
SEALA is the latest addition to SIBF’s regional network model. It was conceived by international CEOs and entrepreneurs who sought to move beyond traditional commercial training offerings. SEALA provides next-generation leaders in South East Asia with practical knowledge, leadership tools, mentorship, and network support. These resources are fully accessible, ensuring participants gain from the collective experience and wisdom of a global network. SEALA’s Leadership Academies follow the proven 10-day format, creating a robust foundation for personal and professional advancement.
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Middle East Leadership Association (MELA):
MELA represents the Middle Eastern arm of SIBF’s global network. MELA empowers executives across the Middle East and Northern Africa region by exposing them, through a similar 10-day Leadership Academy, to best practices in leadership, promoting excellence in management and personal performance, and integrating them into a global network of peers and professionals. As a key driver of personal and professional growth, MELA fosters responsible and ethical leadership, accelerating development and decision-making across 14 Arab nations. By joining MELA, leaders contribute to the region's positive and sustainable development, enhancing their potential exponentially.
Visit website
Meet Our Global Network
North American Leadership Alliance (NALA):
NALA is the leadership academy for SIBF, designed to elevate leadership skills, build strong relationships, and expand the organization across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. This transformative five-day program is a path to SIBF membership that connects rising leaders with established global network mentors. NALA offers access to innovative ideas, diverse perspectives, and top-tier leadership practices. Upon completion, graduates are invited to join SIBF as full members.
Central Eurasia Leadership Alliance (CELA):
CELA stands as the premier network for leaders in Central Eurasia, dedicated to enhancing their leadership skills, expanding their professional networks, and amplifying their positive impact on families, businesses, and communities. The journey into CELA begins with a 10-day Leadership Academy, providing participants with one of the best globally available high-level executive education programs. These academies offer profound insights from business luminaries, educational speakers, and unique cultural experiences, setting the foundation for lifelong personal and professional growth.
South East Asia Leadership Alliance (SEALA):
SEALA is the latest addition to SIBF’s regional network model. It was conceived by international CEOs and entrepreneurs who sought to move beyond traditional commercial training offerings. SEALA provides next-generation leaders in South East Asia with practical knowledge, leadership tools, mentorship, and network support. These resources are fully accessible, ensuring participants gain from the collective experience and wisdom of a global network. SEALA’s Leadership Academies follow the proven 10-day format, creating a robust foundation for personal and professional advancement.
Middle East Leadership Association (MELA):
MELA represents the Middle Eastern arm of SIBF’s global network. MELA empowers executives across the Middle East and Northern Africa region by exposing them, through a similar 10-day Leadership Academy, to best practices in leadership, promoting excellence in management and personal performance, and integrating them into a global network of peers and professionals. As a key driver of personal and professional growth, MELA fosters responsible and ethical leadership, accelerating development and decision-making across 14 Arab nations. By joining MELA, leaders contribute to the region’s positive and sustainable development, enhancing their potential exponentially.
