Chidi Blyden

Ms. Chidi Blyden is an accomplished executive leader and former U.S. foreign policy advisor whose career spans national security, defense, economic development, and international affairs. As Principal of Culturally Bound, she brings over two decades of strategic leadership to advancing solutions that strengthen African institutions and unlock economic and security potential.

Previously, Ms. Blyden served as Deputy CEO of the Millennium Challenge Corporation, overseeing agency operations and chairing the Investment Management Committee responsible for assessing $1B in annual investments and guiding a $5B global portfolio. She authorized an additional $1.8B in compacts and threshold programs during her tenure.

In the Biden‑Harris administration, she was Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for African Affairs, shaping U.S.–Africa defense policy and securing over $1B for security cooperation and institutional capacity-building.

A trained vocalist and pianist, Ms. Blyden also serves on the Sitar Arts Center Board of Directors, supporting arts access for disadvantaged youth in Washington, D.C.