Navigating the Art and Challenges of Diplomacy
Discover German history, enjoy a hearty buffet, and hear a diplomat’s tale from the Cold War era.
Global Ties Arizona invites high school students to an exclusive evening of history, culture, and international insight. Enjoy a traditional German buffet while exploring the pivotal moments that shaped Germany during the Cold War.
The highlight of the evening features a firsthand account from Bernd Häber, son of seasoned diplomat Herbert Häber, who served during this tense chapter of global relations. As Bernd shares his father’s story, students will gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between strategy, culture, and connection that defines diplomacy.
In addition, guests will have the opportunity to view an exhibition of three authentic Berlin Wall pieces at Treffpunkt, offering a tangible connection to history and a glimpse into the era that shaped Bernd’s family story.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, curious about careers in global affairs, eager to experience German culture and cuisine, or simply interested in the intersection of food and international storytelling, this event promises meaningful conversation, delicious dishes, and a unique look into the art of diplomacy. Parents are welcome to join us as well!
Date & Time: Monday, October 20
Location: 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Admission: FREE for high school students | $15 for parents/guardian (Admission includes a delicious German buffet spread!)
Reserve your spot today for an evening of German flavors and global insight!
Special Speakers
Carolin Gey
Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany
Carolin brings over 30 years of experience in international business, health care, and wellness. After beginning her career in European health care, she moved to the U.S. in 2002, launching and managing ventures across health, wellness, sports, and manufacturing, with a focus on building strong U.S.–global partnerships. Her expertise spans company management, international distribution, product development, and branding.
She holds a master’s degree in business economics from the University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany, and completed part of her studies on an Erasmus scholarship at the University of Sevilla, Spain. Fluent in German and English and conversational in Spanish, she brings both formal education and entrepreneurial experience to her work.
In February 2020, Carolin was inaugurated as Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Arizona, representing the German government, assisting with consular services, and fostering cultural, educational, and business ties. Later that year, she co-founded Treffpunkt, a nonprofit German-speaking community center in Scottsdale, AZ, which hosts over 100 annual events, operates a language school, organizes fundraisers, and serves as a hub for the German, European, and international communities.
Carolin also serves on the Executive Board of the Diplomatic Corps of Arizona and as a Board Member of the Global Chamber in Phoenix.
Bernd Häber
Bernd Häber was born in East Berlin after the Berlin Wall was erected and grew up under the German Democratic Republic’s Communist government. He studied at the Technische Universität in Chemnitz, developing early interests in German history, music, and modern technology. The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 dramatically changed his life, eventually leading him to move to Phoenix, Arizona, where he now lives.
Bernd comes from a notable family history: his grandfather, Fritz Häber, was an American POW after WWII, and his father, Herbert Häber, rose to the Politburo in East Germany before facing political expulsion and later trials after reunification. Bernd is currently working on his father’s life story, titled Koalition der Vernunft (“Coalition of Reason”).
An accomplished author and historian, Bernd has written several books, including Fritz Häber – The Complete Diary: 16 Months in an American POW Camp, Tempest – 20th Anniversary, and The Wondrous Story of Hugo and Matilda. He co-led the “Stories from the Spanish Civil War” project with Northern Arizona University’s Martin-Springer Institute, highlighting international volunteers and family connections to the conflict.
Bernd is also the founder of Worldstrings Promotion, a music agency dedicated to bringing people together through the power of music.
