Event Recap: 14th Annual Summer International Business Networking: Built to Last

On Thursday, July 23, 2026, the British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia welcomed more than 100 executive leaders from across the international business community for our 14th Annual Summer International Business Networking Reception, Built to Last, held at Quorum at the Science Center. 

Bringing together executives from life sciences, healthcare, international trade, logistics, architecture, professional services, aviation, government, and the broader international business community, the evening celebrated the partnerships that continue to position Greater Philadelphia as one of the world's leading hubs for life science innovation and global commerce. 

Guests gathered for an evening of networking before hearing from leaders whose work demonstrated that Philadelphia's greatest strength lies not within any one industry, but in the collaboration between them. Opening the programme, BABC President Zac Taormina reflected on this year's Built to Last theme, noting that Greater Philadelphia's lasting success is built on the relationships between businesses, institutions, governments, and communities. Those connections, he remarked, continue to strengthen both our region and the U.S.-UK relationship, serving as the foundation for a business community that is truly built to last. 

Throughout the programme, speakers brought this message to life through their own experiences. Kirsten Deeds of RKL LLP spoke about the trusted advisors who help businesses grow and navigate an increasingly global economy, while John Rowan, Vice President of Delaware River Stevedores, opened with a simple question: "Who knows what a stevedore is?" He then shared the story of the recent transport of a Belgian cyclotron through Tioga Marine Terminal to the Roberts Proton Therapy Center, demonstrating how international coordination and supply chains quietly enable life-saving innovation. 

Dr. Michael "Mike" LaRiviere of Penn Medicine and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia continued that story by explaining the life-changing impact the cyclotron will have on children receiving proton therapy. He described how the technology precisely targets cancer while minimising damage to healthy tissue, sharing both sobering statistics and an inspiring perspective on his work.  

Olivia Cashman and Philip Allsopp of RIBA USA explored the role of thoughtful architecture in creating healthier, more resilient communities, challenging attendees to recognize that we have reached a "fork in the road" where supporting our communities, our environment, and our built world will determine whether they are truly built to last. Johanna Crocetto of Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philadelphia Region highlighted the importance of community partnerships in supporting children and families during life's most challenging moments, a particularly meaningful message as the evening raised funds to support Ronald McDonald House Camp. 

Closing the program, Rhett Workman of American Airlines reinforced the value of global connectivity, and the vital role aviation continues to play in strengthening transatlantic relationships. As a major hub for American Airlines, Philadelphia welcomes thousands of passengers travelling to, though and from our region each day, including many seeking the world-class medical care for which Greater Philadelphia is internationally recognised.  

Rhett concluded the evening by announcing the winning bid for the silent auction of 100,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® miles, with all proceeds benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philadelphia Region. After announcing the remaining raffle winners, guests continued networking, exchanging ideas, and strengthening relationships throughout the room. 

The British American Business Council extends its sincere appreciation to our sponsors for making the evening possible, including Lead Sponsor RKL LLP, Supporting Sponsor RIBA USA, Corporate Sponsor Delaware River Stevedores, and Exclusive Airline Sponsor American Airlines.  

We also thank our promotional partners: the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia, Chilean & American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia, French American Chamber of Commerce, German American Chamber of Commerce of Philadelphia, Irish American Business Chamber & Network, Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Global Business Advisors, World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, and the World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia. 

We also extend our sincere thanks to our outstanding World Affairs Council Youth Diplomat volunteers—Amber, Angel, and Illia. Their professionalism, enthusiasm, and tireless support throughout the evening, particularly in managing the silent auction, were invaluable to the success of the programme. 

Built to Last served as a powerful reminder that Greater Philadelphia's continued success is driven by collaboration. Whether advancing life-saving medical technologies, facilitating global trade, designing healthier communities, connecting international markets, or supporting families in need, the organizations represented throughout the evening demonstrated that lasting impact is achieved when industries work together. As the BABC continues to convene leaders from across the transatlantic business community, we look forward to building on these partnerships and strengthening the relationships that power international business.