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Under Development!

Washington, DC

Where History Happens

The City Where Every Story Shapes History

Washington, D.C. is where global decisions are made and the future of foreign policy takes shape. At YPFP DC, you step into that environment through curated, in person experiences that connect you with the people, ideas, and institutions shaping the world today. Here, every conversation, every connection, and every event is a step toward shaping a more informed, impactful world.

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What Defines YPFP DC?

YPFP DC is uniquely positioned at the center of U.S. policymaking. We leverage our proximity to Washington, D.C., where decisions are made and leaders are formed, to provide members with direct access to the people and processes shaping global policy.

Our programming moves beyond surface level networking to offer meaningful, in person engagement, including:

  • Happy hours and networking events

  • Embassy visits

  • Policy discussions and listening series

  • Wargaming simulations

  • Speaker events and book talks

  • Career development sessions

  • Research symposiums

  • Social events and game nights

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Upcoming Events

Open to the Public

May Happy Hour

May 21, 2026

·

5:00 PM

ET

1221 Van St SE, Washington, DC 20003, USA

In Person

For the most up to date news on DC events, please visit our Instragram @YPFP_DC!

Proof that we do much more than just swap business cards.

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Our Programs

Wargames

Our wargaming events simulate real-world foreign policy challenges, giving members hands-on experience in strategic decision-making, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving.

Embassy Series

Our Embassy Series brings members into private conversation with senior diplomats, exploring international strategy, country-specific priorities, and the global challenges shaping today's world.

Happy Hours

Our happy hours offer exclusive networking alongside D.C.'s leading international organizations, creating meaningful connections with policy leaders in environments designed for genuine relationship-building.

Our Focus

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Our Partners

YPFP DC is proud to work alongside some of the most influential institutions in global affairs, including Johns Hopkins SAIS, CSIS, U.S. government agencies, and foreign missions across D.C. Together, we create events that connect members with the people and ideas driving international policy.

Who We've Worked With

Our Local Benefits

Membership comes with more than a global network. Our local chapters offer tailored programming, curated networking events, and exclusive resources designed to help members connect with peers, expand their knowledge, and shape the future of international affairs in their own communities.

Previously at YPFP DC...

Foreign Policy Priorities in the Indo-Pacific for the Trump Administration

During our Foreign Policy Priorities in the Indo-Pacific panel, attendees heard from Former Ambassador Mark Lippert, Shihoko Goto, and Bruce Klingner on how U.S. engagement with the region is evolving,…

An Evening at the Austrian Embassy with Ambassador Schneebauer

YPFP welcomed members and non-members to the Embassy of Austria for an evening with Ambassador DDr. Petra Schneebauer, Austria's Ambassador to the United States. Attendees joined a fireside chat exploring…

Visit the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda with Arthur Asiimwe

YPFP members were welcomed to the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda for an exclusive members-only conversation with Arthur Asiimwe, Deputy Chief of Mission. With over a decade of experience…

Research Symposium: Reimagining Foreign Policy in a Transforming World

YPFP partnered with American University's School of International Service to host a full-day Research Symposium exploring how foreign policy is evolving in a rapidly changing world. Emerging professionals presented original…

Meet and Greet Reception with His Excellency Theo Franken, the Belgian Minister of Defence, in charge of Foreign Trade

YPFP members had the exclusive opportunity to meet with His Excellency Theo Franken, Belgian Minister of Defence and Foreign Trade, for an intimate reception in Georgetown. Members engaged directly with…

Our Team

Guides the overall strategic direction of the DMV YPFP Branch area.

Aaron Chan is a Senior Associate at TAG AI, delivering AI-driven geopolitical analysis across Indo-Pacific markets. Formerly Special Advisor to the National Cyber Director, he advanced U.S. cybersecurity strategy and congressional engagement. With a decade in national security and foreign policy, he focuses on China competition, Southeast Asia, and global development issues.

Aaron Chan

Managing Director

As Director of Partnerships & Engagement, Katelin leads and manages partnerships and stakeholder engagement, including with foreign policy organizations, embassies, and Congress.

Katelin Romano

Director of Partnerships & Engagement

As Communications Director, Maggie led the D.C. branch’s communications and digital strategy, managing social media and end-to-end event communications to engage, grow, and support our member community.

Maggie Gross

Communications Director

As events and programming director for DC Branch Shay leads strategic planning efforts for programming throughout the year and coordinates day-of event logistics. She uses YPFP’s extensive network of current members, alumni and board members to create premiere foreign policy focused events.

As events and programming director for DC Branch Shay leads strategic planning efforts for programming throughout the year and coordinates day-of event logistics. She uses YPFP’s extensive network of current members, alumni and board members to create premiere foreign policy focused events.

Shay Wright

Events and Programming Director

Assists the Director of Partnerships and Engagement on interactions and relationships with DC area embassies.

Lisa Irambona

DC Embassy Engagement Advisor

As Discussion Group Manager, Connor is responsible for the D.C. branch’s network of topical, regional, and language-based discussion groups, ensuring that each group has the resources, coordination, and visibility it needs to succeed.

Connor Matteson

Discussion Group Manager

Join the Team

Don't see a role that fits? Reach out to us directly and let us know how you'd like to get involved! 

There are no vacancies at the moment. Please check back later for new opportunities!

Washington DC

Discussion Group Chair

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