BELWEST - Chamber of Commerce

?? Belgian Tomorrowland Returns to the U.S. at Las Vegas Sphere Entertainment Co. with the ??UNITY?? Show. Insomniac Events, based in Los Angeles, has teamed up with Tomorrowland and Sphere Entertainment Co. Entertainment Co. for an exciting collaboration. ?? Renowned for their large-scale, immersive designs, the top music festival creators from the U.S. and Europe are joining forces to present their newest venture. Combining innovation, experience, and cutting-edge technology, Tomorrowland from Belgium and Insomniac from the U.S. invite you to experience "UNITY," premiering in Las Vegas in August 2025. Set in the iconic Sphere arena, this festival promises to redefine the future of dance music. ?? UNITY will feature a dynamic soundtrack that blends historical influences with innovative approaches to dance music. The show will surprise attendees with guest DJ performances, uniting the worlds of Insomniac and Tomorrowland into a single immersive experience. With an emphasis on universality, timelessness, and full sensory immersion, the event aims to push boundaries. ?? Belgium has long been a powerhouse in the electronic music scene, producing renowned EDM artists like Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Charlotte de Witte or Lost Frequencies. Tomorrowland is celebrated for its exceptional production values, with Belgian craftsmanship evident in its elaborate stage designs, visual elements, and immersive experiences. Belgium’s rich artistic and design heritage has influenced the festival’s breathtaking stages and the advanced technology used in its visuals. ??? ”Insomniac is not just a trusted and experienced partner but also a company that shares the same passion for electronic music and immersive storytelling. With Las Vegas as its home base and a history of delivering unparalleled festival experiences, this partnership is the perfect match to bring something extraordinary to life” says Debby Wilmsen, Communications Lead at We Are One World, producer of Tomorrowland. ??? ”We are thrilled and proud to see Tomorrowland making its Belgian mark in one of the world’s top entertainment cities and bringing talents and business in Nevada. See you this summer!” shared Alain Charbonnier. Paras Barnett | Consulate General of Belgium in Los Angeles | Delegation of Flanders to the USA | Flanders Investment & Trade - USA | Constance Powis

?? Keeping an Eye on Europe 2025 Conference - Speaker Introduction (2/5): We are honored to announce Adrien Frier, Consul General at the Consulate General of France in Los Angeles, as a distinguished panelist for our event. ???? With nearly two decades of experience in diplomacy, Mr. Frier is a graduate of the prestigious Institut d’études Politiques (IEP) de Paris Sciences Po. He holds a Master's degree in Public Affairs (2006) as well as a Master's in Law, Management, and Economics of Sport. His expertise spans strategic diplomacy, security, and European affairs. ?? Mr. Frier began his career as a trainee secretary in the Foreign Affairs cadre d’Orient, before becoming Diplomatic Advisor to Harlem Désir, then Secretary of State for European Affairs, in 2015. He later joined the Directorate of Strategic Affairs, Security, and Disarmament, where he contributed significantly to shaping France’s global security strategy under Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian. From 2016 to 2017, he spent a year as an exchange diplomat at the U.S. Department of State and later served at the Embassy of France in the United States from 2017 to 2019, focusing on European affairs. By 2020, Mr. Frier was appointed Deputy Director for Counterterrorism and Organized Crime, overseeing key security initiatives. In 2022, he assumed the role of Strategic Affairs and Continental Europe Advisor in the office of Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna. A seasoned diplomat, he formally joined the corps of Foreign Affairs Advisors and Ministers Plenipotentiary in 2023. ?????????? As Consul General in Los Angeles, Mr. Frier brings a wealth of diplomatic experience, a deep commitment to strengthening Franco-American relations, and a strategic vision shaped by years of public service at the highest levels of government. ?? About the event ?? April 10, 2025 6pm PST ?? Panel & Cocktail (in-person) by invitation only - request an invitation by contacting Alain Charbonnier (limited seating available). ?? Live Streaming with RSVP in advance at https://lnkd.in/ejKVnGGY This event, organized by our founding member Druven, and the Consulate General of Belgium in Los Angeles, underscores our commitment to fostering high-level transatlantic dialogue and advancing strategic business partnerships between the U.S. and Europe. Ministère des Affaires étrangères fran?ais | European Union Delegation to the United States

Delvaux has inaugurated its second flagship store in the U.S., located in Orange County, California ???????? A few weeks ago, our CEO, Alain Charbonnier, was honored to attend the grand opening of the second Delvaux U.S. flagship store at Costa Mesa's South Coast Plaza, alongside premium member Patrick Hollenfeltz, Consul General Sophie Hottat, and Trade and Investment Commissioner Eric Gabrys. ?? Founded in 1829 by Charles Delvaux, the house is one of the oldest luxury leather manufacturers in the world. Renowned for its craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail, and timeless designs, Delvaux is a symbol of Belgian elegance and sophistication. Its ability to blend tradition with innovation has ensured a solid standing in the luxury market. The brand holds a Royal Warrant of Appointment from the Belgian Royal Family, designating it as an official supplier of luxury leather goods to the Belgian monarchy. ??? In an interview with Fashion Network, Jean-Marc Loubier, CEO of Delvaux shared: "Our growth is strong and our momentum is high, but we're still in the early stages of our development, with two stores in the U.S. to date. We have a longer-established presence in Japan, Korea and Belgium. And we're making inroads in the Middle East in Dubai. In 2011, Delvaux generated 97% of its sales in Belgium. Today, the export market represents between 90 and 95% of total sales. Things have changed." Alain Charbonnier added, "We are incredibly proud to have a Belgian luxury brand presence in California and are thrilled to highlight exceptional talent in the U.S. This is the perfect time to elevate Belgian and Luxembourgish retail brands in the region as we approach major international events in the coming years. With our extensive network of members, we are here to support your international growth, offering assistance in logistics, tax, sales, marketing, and human resources." ?? Feel the Belgian touch and do not delay your visit to Delvaux at Costa Mesa South Coast Plaza: ??3333 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Julie Verlinden | Amanda (Mathes) Whiting | Richemont | Consulate General of Belgium in Los Angeles | hub.brussels | Embassy of Belgium in the United States of America

?? Keeping an Eye on Europe 2025 Conference - Speaker Introduction (1/5): We are pleased to welcome Mateusz Gmura, Consul of the Republic of Poland in Los Angeles, as a distinguished panelist for our event. ???? With nearly a decade of experience in managing and overseeing various consular and public diplomacy initiatives, Mr. Gmura currently serves as the Consul at the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Los Angeles. Given Poland’s current Presidency of the Council of the European Union, his involvement in this event is of great importance. ?? Mr. Gmura holds a master’s degree in translation and British literature from the University of Wroclaw, Poland, where he studied at the Institute of English Philology. After graduating in 2004, he worked in both private enterprise and education, implementing bilingual programs. ???? Since 2017, Mr. Gmura has been a diplomat with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland. He began his career as Vice Consul at the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in New York where he spent six years focusing on the Polish diaspora, economic relations, media, and public diplomacy. In addition to his consular duties, he managed several projects aimed at strengthening Polish-American relations. In 2020, he became the Director of the Polish Cultural Institute New York, promoting Polish arts on the East Coast and supporting a variety of significant cultural initiatives. ???? ???? Since May 2023, Mr. Gmura has been leading the Department of Polish Diaspora, Communication, and Public Diplomacy at the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Los Angeles. ?? About the Event ?? April 10, 2025, 6:00 PM PST ?? Panel & Cocktail (in-person) by invitation only – Request an invitation by contacting Alain Charbonnier (limited seating available). ?? Live Streaming with RSVP in advance at https://lnkd.in/ejKVnGGY ???? This event, organized by our Founding Member Druven and the Consulate General of Belgium in Los Angeles, underscores our commitment to fostering high-level transatlantic dialogue, enhancing strategic business partnerships between the U.S. and Europe, and offering valuable insights to our members. European Union Delegation to the United States | Embassy of Belgium in the United States of America

?? ?? Importing goods into the United States ???? isn't something you can improvise—it's a process that requires expertise, precision, and trusted partners. With our premium member TLS-EXPRESS, importing into the U.S. has never been easier or more secure. Their team specializes in simplifying the complexities of international logistics, ensuring your imports arrive smoothly, efficiently, and without hassle. Why choose TLS-EXPRESS for your U.S. imports? ? Expert guidance at every step ? Reliable customs clearance ? Tailored solutions to fit your needs ? Peace of mind for your business Partner with TLS-EXPRESS today and experience worry-free imports to the U.S. ?? Contact Patrick Hollenfeltz for more information. #TLSExpress #USImports #Logistics #InternationalTrade #ImportExport #PeaceOfMind

?????????? Los Angeles Premium Event on April 10th - “A Pivotal Moment for Transatlantic Relations” The transatlantic relationship stands at a crucial crossroads, influenced by political shifts, evolving economic landscapes, and emerging global challenges. This exclusive event, hosted by our founding member Druven in collaboration with the Consulate General of Belgium in Los Angeles, will bring together leading experts to discuss the future of transatlantic ties. ??? We are honored to introduce the distinguished panelists: ???? Mateusz Gmura – Consul of the Republic of Poland in Los Angeles, during Poland’s presidency of the Council of the European Union; ???? Andrea Sasse – Consul General of Germany in Los Angeles; ???? Adrien Frier – Consul General of France in Los Angeles; ???? Sophie Hottat – Consul General of Belgium in Los Angeles, Moderator; ???? Mietek Boduszyński – Foreign Policy Advisor, Associate Professor of Politics and International Relations, Pomona College. ?? Date & Time: Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 6:00PM Location: Los Angeles How to Attend: ?? In-person: The panel discussion will be followed by a networking cocktail. Seating is limited for members and by invitation only. To become a Belwest member, please sign up here: https://lnkd.in/gTdQmwmf and send a private message to Alain Charbonnier to request your invitation. ?? Live stream: Complimentary access with registration. RSVP here: https://lnkd.in/ejKVnGGY ?? This event is designed for decision-makers, industry leaders, and policymakers who seek valuable insights into the evolving transatlantic relationship. Embassy of Belgium in the United States of America | Embassy of Luxembourg in Washington, D.C. | European Union Delegation to the United States | Jeffrey Mayes I David Hubert

Proudly presented by our esteemed Premium Member, Telesign, we invite you to dive into the Digital Communications Predictions Report: "Key Trends to Watch in 2025" prepared by Proximus Global. This insightful report offers an in-depth analysis of the emerging trends and innovations shaping the future of digital communications, providing valuable foresight for businesses and professionals alike as they prepare for the evolving landscape in the year ahead.

?? This is La Francophonie Month, and at Belwest, we are proud to celebrate and support exceptional talents from Belgium and Luxembourg in the entertainment industry. If you're in Los Angeles, don't miss the screenings le Théatre Raymond Kabbaz. ?? Wednesday, March 19th | 8:00 PM - Belgium ???? ??Les Pas Perdus?? directed by Thibaut Wohlfahrt and Roda Fawaz and produced by FRAKAS PRODUCTIONS. "The courthouse opens its doors. Beings in search of freedom, recognition, love, and forgiveness rush inside. They are in transit in the hall of lost steps. But not for long. Today, they will make a choice that will change their lives and discover that the quest for oneself is not without consequences..." ?? The Consul General of Belgium, Sophie Hottat, and our CEO Alain Charbonnier will attend the screening. ?? Friday, March 21st | 8:00 PM - Luxembourg ???? Night ??Plus que jamais?? directed by Emily Atef and produced by Samsa Film. Starring Luxembourg actress Vicky Krieps and the late Gaspard Ulliel. "Hélène, a 33-year-old woman from Bordeaux, lives happily with her partner. Her life is turned upside down when she learns she has a rare lung disease. Through a blog, she discovers Norway and decides to follow her instincts. Despite the love she has for her partner Mathieu, she will travel across Europe to Norway in search of a new path." ?? The Consul General of Luxembourg, Daniel Da Cruz, Honorary Consul Pierre Biwer, and our CEO Alain Charbonnier will attend the screening. ?? Location: Theatre Raymond Kabbaz, 10361 West Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90064, United States ?? All screenings are in French with English subtitles. ??? Tickets available here: https://lnkd.in/eE3Xxja6 In San Francisco, Sandrine Scheller from the Luxembourg Trade & Investment Office San Francisco, along with our chapter leader, David Hubert, will be attending the Francophone Night at the Alliance Fran?aise de San Francisco on March 20, where the Luxembourgish short film ? Caroline sur le toit ?, directed by Alejandro Bordier and produced by Calach Films, along with the Belgian short film ? Pupuce ?, directed by Chloé LARRERE and produced by INITIAL FILMS, will be screened. ?? We dedicate these screenings to the talented Belgian actress émilie Dequenne, who passed away this week. With her Cannes Film Festival prize for her breakout role in the Dardenne Brothers’ 1999 film Rosetta, we were fortunate to welcome her to Los Angeles for the Oscar nomination of CLOSE by Lukas Dhont in 2023. émilie, rest in peace. Your talent, smile, and love for others will inspire us to become better people. Wallonie Bruxelles Images - Film Fund Luxembourg - Consulate General of Belgium in Los Angeles - Luxembourg Trade & Investment Office San Francisco - Constance Powis - OIF

?? **Partner Job Opportunity**: The Consulate General of Belgium in Los Angeles seeks a Multiskilled Officer for its Consular Section, specializing in visa processing. Are you a versatile individual proficient in English, Dutch, and/or French with strong administrative and communication capabilities? Join a diplomatic and consular network by supporting the Consulate General. ?? **Application Deadline**: March 31, 2025. For detailed job requirements and application procedure, visit: https://lnkd.in/evWJgFpx

?? A Night to Remember at the Sunset Marquis Hotel Mixer! Our recent networking event in Los Angeles was bringing together members and friends at the iconic Sunset Marquis for an unforgettable evening of connection, sharing, and fun moments. We were honored to have our Chairman, Jeffrey Mayes, and CEO, Alain Charbonnier, welcome special guest Mayor Chelsea Byers who shared valuable insights into the priorities shaping the future of the City of West Hollywood. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as attendees shared fresh ideas, explored new business opportunities, and discovered ways to collaborate across diverse industries. ?? This mixer wasn’t just about connecting with longtime friends—it also provided a fantastic opportunity for newcomers to the Chamber to meet our seasoned members and discover how the Chamber can support their growth and success. We were thrilled to be joined by a strong representation of our Board Members, including Consul General Sophie Hottat, and the Trade Commissioners from our three Belgian regions: Wouter Debeyne, Hubert Goffinet, and Eric Gabrys. Together, we spotlighted the upcoming Belgian Foreign Trade Agency (BFTA) Economic Mission, set to travel to San Francisco and Los Angeles in October 2025. ?? If you’re not yet a member, now’s the perfect time to join! Tap into a vibrant business community that's always eager to help you launch, grow, and strengthen your business. Find more details in the comments below. Pictures by Claire Painchaud