On March 7, 2019, Eastern European alumni of the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program presented a one-day professional development symposium for regional leaders, “Brain Gain in the Balkans:  Economic and Development Strategies for a Better Future,” at the Hotel Dubrovnik in Zagreb, Croatia. This event was an opportunity for leading professionals in a variety of fields throughout the region to network and foster engagement in cross-country and regional projects. Panels focused on democracy building and economic development, and alumni shared leadership stories about successful projects they are advancing to create a better future in the region.  Participants also joined break-out professional development workshops on NGO leadership and collaboration, media lessons and skills for 21st century leaders, and regional projects in sustainable development. This event was part of a series of international events honoring of the 40th anniversary of the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program.