Aida Bianca Balamaci: Envisioning a World of Collaboration, Connectivity and Reciprocity
Aida Bianca Balamaci is a multi-lingual expert in international relations, arts and culture, diplomacy, and social and economic impact. She has worked for the United Nations in Belgium and in New York City, specializing in migration, partnerships and communities, and gender equality. Her love and exploration of art have led her to a position as Cultural and Community Attaché for the Austrian Consulate General in New York City, followed by her most recent role as Head of Visual Arts, Architecture & Design at the Austrian Cultural Forum, also in NYC. In her work, she strives to bring her special, inspiring vision of art as a transformative medium in fostering diplomacy and harmonious international relations. She tells us about that vision, and more.
You have worked as a Communities and Partnerships Specialist for the United Nations in Brussels, after which you moved to the United States and continued your work at the UN. Tell us about this experience.
I wanted to be part of communities that aim to improve people’s lives across the globe since I was a student of political science and international development. The United Nations seemed the perfect place to do just that and advocate for issues I am passionate about, such as migration and gender equality. Working there was a highly rewarding and transformative experience; I felt that I was making a real difference in the world. As a Community and Partnerships specialist I had the privilege to collaborate and bring together an amazing array of people: government officials, academics, passionate grass-roots and NGO workers, dedicated private sector partners—all united by a common goal: to create a better future.
Aida Bianca Balamaci at the UN Headquarters during the General Assembly, 2015
The pioneering projects I worked on were multi-stakeholder initiatives, such as the Joint Migration and Development Initiative and the International Network of Women in Politics that brought together voices from all corners of the community. Watching these diverse groups come together to address local, national and global development issues was incredibly moving. We weren’t just talking about change; we were making it happen, one step at a time. The sense of accomplishment I felt when we launched and implemented these initiatives and saw the tangible impact it had on communities worldwide is something I’ll never forget.
Organizing events and forums was another highlight. These gatherings weren’t just meetings; they were vibrant exchanges of ideas and hopes. Seeing people from different backgrounds and perspectives come together to find common ground and solutions was truly heartening. These experiences taught me the power of negotiation, mediation, and advocacy.
Overall, I gained a deeper understanding of global and local dynamics and enhanced my ability to work in diverse environments. I was able to build a strong network of contacts across continents, fostering global communities of practice, especially in the field of migration and development and women’s political participation. These communities and partnerships played pivotal roles in the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable development goals. Most importantly, I’ve been part of a mission that truly matters—helping to bridge the gap between international policies and local implementation, and ensuring that our efforts are rooted in the real needs of people.
How has the move to the U.S. impacted your worldview and approach to your work?
Relocating to the U.S., particularly to New York City, immersed me in a melting pot of cultures and ideas. This dynamic environment, with its vibrant international community, has enriched my approach to international relations and cultural diplomacy and taught me the powerful role that arts and culture play in bridging divides and fostering mutual understanding. The city’s diversity has underscored the importance of creating inclusive narratives that reflect varied stories and experiences, a principle I incorporate into my work daily. Working at the UN and at diplomatic missions in New York has provided unparalleled access to high-level meetings, conferences, and events, facilitating collaborations with global cultural institutions and foundations. This exposure has expanded my professional network, enabling me to build strategic partnerships that enhance the reach and impact of my work. Ultimately, moving to the U.S. has profoundly impacted my worldview and approach to work, blending professional growth with personal enrichment. It has reinforced the importance of fostering a global community where cultural diversity is celebrated, and gender equality is prioritized.
Aida Bianca Balamaci in Geneva with members of the iKNOW Politics network at the Interparliamentary Union’s Annual Assembly
You also worked at UN Women. Tell us about it.
During my time at UN Women, I served as the community manager for the initiative ‘International Knowledge Network of Women in Politics,’ or iKNOW Politics. This was a groundbreaking joint project of International IDEA, the Inter-parliamentary Union (IPU), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women). The goal of iKNOW Politics was to increase the participation and effectiveness of women in political life.
The platform was revolutionary as it enabled women in politics, as well as aspiring female politicians from all over the world, to interact and learn from each other. They shared their experiences, insights and resources, equipping many to run for office and creating a powerful network of mentorship. It was truly empowering to witness and be surrounded by smart, powerful women driven to grow the participation of women in politics and eventually creating equal opportunities for women in what traditionally was and still is a male-dominated field. The most inspiring and rewarding aspect of this experience was the collaborative spirit—women rising together, supporting one another, and addressing the unique challenges they face as a gender in their respective cultural, social and political realities. It highlighted the importance of creating a more equal world through gender equality in politics. Through my role, I learned the immense value of strategy and collaboration in empowering women globally. Witnessing the impact of iKNOW Politics reinforced my commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women in all spheres of life.
I worked there in 2016, a year filled with high hopes for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign. Although her loss was a significant disappointment, it didn’t deter the women in our network. They continued to persevere, and perhaps we will see the first female President of the United States soon.
Aida Bianca Balamaci with Madeleine Albright during the 60th United Nations Commission on the Status of Women
You had the opportunity to meet Madeleine Albright while working at UN Women. What did that mean for you?
Meeting Madeleine Albright while working at UN Women was a profoundly inspiring experience for me. Her journey from a refugee to the first female U.S. Secretary of State is a powerful testament to the resilience and strength of women and a reminder of what is possible when determination meets opportunity. Her story resonates deeply with me, especially given my personal story of migration—from communist Romania to Austria as a child—and my work with the UN/ the iKNOW Politics initiative, where we aimed to increase the participation and effectiveness of women in political life. Personally, meeting Madeleine Albright was a reminder of the potential for greatness within each of us, regardless of our background or the challenges we face. Her career is a beacon of hope and inspiration for women worldwide, demonstrating that one’s beginnings do not define our potential or our capacity for leadership. She encouraged me to strive for excellence and to support other women on their journeys. It was a profound reminder that our work is not just about policy and politics; it’s about changing lives and creating a more equitable world. Encountering such a trailblazing figure was incredibly meaningful.
Aida Bianca Balamaci moderating an artist talk during the exhibition she curated at the Romanian Cultural Institute, “Goddesses, Amazons, and Mothers: A Celebration of Female Creativity”, 2024
Then, after working for the Austrian Consulate, you delved into the cultural aspects of international relations, first by working for the Austrian Cultural Forum and then collaborating increasingly with the Romanian Cultural Institute. You are creating a niche for yourself in cultural diplomacy here in New York. Please share your vision for this path that connects arts and international relations. What do you feel you are bringing to it?
My journey into the cultural aspects of international relations has been both deeply rewarding and enlightening. Working for the Austrian Consulate initially opened my eyes to the intricate ways in which culture influences diplomacy and international relations. This realization led me to the Austrian Cultural Forum, where I began to see the transformative power of the arts in fostering mutual understanding and respect between nations and people. Art has the power to shift paradigms and drive social change. With my UN background, I felt that this was an opportunity to create communities and partnerships differently—namely through the arts and culture. My vision for cultural diplomacy is to use the arts as a bridge to connect diverse cultures, fostering dialogue and understanding. I believe that through shared cultural experiences, we can break down barriers and build stronger, more empathetic global communities. By showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Austria (where I grew up), Romania (where I was born), and other nations, I can highlight the unique contributions each culture makes to the global tapestry. Working in cultural diplomacy in New York City, a vibrant and diverse cultural hub, has been an incredible journey. It allows me to not only promote the rich cultural traditions of Austria and Romania but also to engage with the city’s dynamic cultural scene, creating a niche where arts and international relations intersect to make a real difference in the world.
I also speak five languages, have lived, studied and worked in seven countries and have travelled extensively. In a way I consider myself a citizen of the world and believe this is an important success factor in diplomacy and the art world. I see the world through lenses of collaboration, connectivity and reciprocity and believe that we are in a constant flux of learning, exploring, creating and evolving as a human race.
Aida Bianca Balamaci at the Global Forum of Migration and Development in Mauritius
What do you love most about New York City?
New York City is THE melting pot of cultures. And since I am a culture and diversity addict, I just knew the moment I stepped foot onto its streets and avenues that this was going to be an everlasting love affair. NYC’s cultural diversity also mirrors the international environment of the United Nations, making it a familiar and stimulating place for someone like me. Living and working in a city that is a global center for diplomacy, international affairs and the arts provides a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment, knowing that my efforts contribute to significant global causes. Then there is the city’s dynamic and fast-paced environment which is exhilarating. It provides constant stimulation and motivation. I am driven by impact and change, so this energy is incredibly empowering. In addition, New York City’s communities are often very supportive and engaged in social issues, making it easier to mobilize support for various initiatives and projects. Last but not least, NYC offers a rich cultural scene with world-class museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues. This variety of cultural experiences is both personally enriching and professionally inspiring, and it always provides fresh perspectives and ideas.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself leading my own cultural center or foundation dedicated to bridging cultural divides and fostering global understanding through the arts. This center would be a vibrant hub for international cultural exchanges, hosting exhibitions, performances, and collaborative projects that celebrate diversity and promote mutual respect. I envision my cultural center as a beacon of creativity and understanding, where people from around the world come together to learn, create, and celebrate our shared humanity. I would like to establish sustainable cultural development projects that have a lasting impact on communities worldwide, promoting cultural heritage and innovation and design large-scale international cultural exchange programs that bring together artists, thinkers, and communities from around the world. In other words, be a global ambassador for culture, diversity and creativity, and still be in New York but as usual, also traveling and exploring the world.
All photos are courtesy of Aida Bianca Balamaci
Top photo: Aida Bianca Balamaci – Hideki Aono Photography
