WEFTEC26 Affinity Programming

WEFTEC is proud to offer a variety of affinity events where attendees can connect, share experiences, and learn about issues affecting their communities. These events are open to all conference registrants on a first-come, first-served basis. Space is limited and fills quickly, so early registration is strongly encouraged. All participants must follow event guidelines to help ensure a welcoming and safe environment for everyone.

Sunday, September 27^th

Black in Water Summit

2:00 pm to 7:30 pm (Includes Reception)
New Orleans Hilton , St. James Ballroom

Monday, September 28^th

Asian-Pasifika Cultures in Water Luncheon

11:30 am to 1:00 pm
New Orleans Convention Center, Room 262

Join us for the 4th Annual Asian & Pasifika Luncheon on Monday, September 28, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in Room 262. This luncheon brings together water professionals to celebrate community, connection, and the experiences of Asian and Pasifika individuals across the water sector. Through storytelling, networking, and meaningful conversation, attendees will have the opportunity to share perspectives, build relationships, and explore what it means to find and define our identity within the industry.

Whether you are early in your career or a seasoned leader, the luncheon offers a welcoming space to connect with peers, learn from one another, and strengthen a sense of belonging. Join us as we come together to celebrate our collective experiences, amplify our voices, and foster a stronger and more inclusive water community. Space is limited, so we encourage you to reserve your spot early.

Hispanos in Water Luncheon

11:30 am to 1:00 pm
New Orleans Convention Center, Room 272

Join us for the Hispanos in Water Luncheon, a welcoming and engaging gathering that brings together Hispanic and Latino professionals, colleagues, and allies from across the water sector to connect, celebrate our culture, and strengthen our community.

This year’s theme, “The Power of Collaboration,” celebrates the relationships, partnerships, and shared experiences that help us grow—both personally and professionally. Through meaningful conversations and stories from our featured speakers, we will explore how collaboration within our community can open doors, create opportunities, overcome challenges, and inspire others to succeed.

The Hispanos in Water Luncheon is also a celebration of the diverse cultures, backgrounds, and experiences that make our community unique. While the program is designed to create a space where Spanish can be spoken and celebrated, everyone is welcome, regardless of language, background, or level of Spanish proficiency. Space is limited, so we encourage you to reserve your spot early. ¡Nos vemos en New Orleans!

LGTBQ+ Learning Exchange

1:30 pm to 3:00 pm
New Orleans Convention Center, Room 342
(no pre-registration required)

This LGBTQ+ Affinity Learning Exchange offers a unique opportunity for participants to engage in a lightly structured, peer-to-peer discussion about LGBTQ+ issues within the water sector. This 90-minute session focuses entirely on fostering conversation, sharing diverse perspectives, and collaboratively exploring challenges and solutions in a small group setting. Attendees will have the chance to network, exchange ideas, and build new connections with colleagues who share an interest in promoting inclusivity and understanding for LGBTQ+ individuals in the water industry. This session welcomes everyone, including those who are closeted, keeping their sexual identity private, and/or allies to the LGBTQIA+ community. There will be no photography or videography in this session. There is no advance registration requirement for this event.

Women In Water Learning Exchange

3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
New Orleans Convention Center, Room 262

Join us for the Women in Water Learning Exchange, an engaging networking event designed to connect, inspire, and empower professionals from across the water sector. This is more than a networking event—it’s an opportunity to strengthen the community of women and allies working together to shape the future of the water industry.

Attendees will have the chance to:

Build connections with professionals representing a wide range of disciplines across the water sector
Share experiences, ideas, and lessons learned in an open and collaborative environment
Find encouragement, mentorship, and new perspectives to support professional growth
Become part of a network committed to creating a more sustainable and resilient future for our communities.

The Women in Water Learning Exchange welcomes participants of all backgrounds and experience levels. Come ready to connect, learn, inspire, and be inspired as we celebrate the power of collaboration and leadership in water. Space is limited, so we encourage you to reserve your spot early. We look forward to seeing you in New Orleans and making waves—together.

Tuesday, September 29^th

Indigenous People and Allies Learning Exchange

1:30 pm to 3:00 pm
New Orleans Convention Center Room 342
(no pre-registration required)

Common Currents (Cross Affinity Event)

4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
New Orleans Convention Center, WEF Community HUB (Exhibition Floor)

Join us for Common Currents, WEF’s inaugural cross-affinity event at WEFTEC 2026, on September 29 from 4:00–5:30 p.m. at the Community HUB on the Exhibition Floor. Designed as a welcoming space, the event will introduce attendees to WEF affinity groups and ways to exchange experiences and meet others. Through interactive activities participants will share ideas, help shape future cross-community events, and leave with at least one meaningful new connection.