Meet Valleigh Brechtel, one of our International Programs interns this spring. A Political Science major at Westmont College, Valleigh brings a deep interest in international diplomacy and cross-cultural understanding to her role.
This internship stood out to her for its strong emphasis on international relations and the unique opportunity to engage with people from around the world.
“I’ve always been interested in pursuing a career that contributes to global peace and allows me to learn about different cultures and countries. […] Engaging with people outside the United States highly intrigues me, as it deepens my understanding of global issues and how international engagement can drive peace.”
During her time with Global Ties San Francisco, she is most looking forward to expanding her knowledge of international diplomacy and gaining a deeper understanding of how different international policies function.
Valleigh’s most memorable adventure to date was taking a half gap-year to Central America after graduating high school early, solo backpacking through Costa Rica, Panama, and Nicaragua. The journey challenged and shaped her in many ways — whether surfing big waves, enduring 11-hour bus rides, or staying in 16-bed shared hostels. Moreover, living with local host families gave her meaningful insights into other cultures, an experience that further fueled her passion for advancing international understanding.
In her spare time, Valleigh enjoys art, traveling, surfing, and cooking.
Song Held is a spring 2025 International Programs intern at Global Ties San Francisco and a student at the University of San Francisco, majoring in International Studies. As she refines her academic concentration, she finds particular interest in peace and conflict studies with a regional focus on the Middle East.
“During this internship, I am most looking forward to learning about the processes, management, and impact of such a globally connected organization. I am also excited to be part of a team that connects inspiring figures to address global issues.”
One of the most transformative experiences in Song’s life to date was a three-month exchange program in Berlin, Germany, where she lived with a host family, attended school, and immersed herself in a new culture and language. This study abroad experience sparked her interest in International Studies and ultimately led her to Global Ties San Francisco. She was also drawn to this internship because of her passion for journalism, foreign and legal policy, and women’s empowerment — topics she is eager to explore further through our hands-on experience.
In her spare time, Song loves to cook, write, run, and travel when possible. As part of the Global Ties San Francisco intern team, she looks forward to meeting new people, contributing to the planning of critical exchange programs, and learning more about the world.
https://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Song-Held-Spotlight-v2_450x450.png450450Alannah Crandallhttps://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GT_SF_logo_tagline_CMYK_original-1030x155.pngAlannah Crandall2025-03-26 14:00:002025-03-27 00:58:06Intern Spotlight: Song Held
From February 13-19, 2025, Global Ties San Francisco hosted the “Tackling Cybercrimes: A Key to Modern Trade” delegation as part of the International Exchange and Leadership Program (IELP), sponsored by the U.S. Embassy Islamabad and administered by Meridian International Center.
Our eight distinguished visitors from Pakistan—including law enforcement officers, an information technology and digital innovation professional from a provincial agricultural department, and online banking experts—engaged with prominent San Francisco and Silicon Valley organizations on cybercrime investigation, cybersecurity risk management, and consumer protection against digital threats.
Key Themes:
The role of public-private partnerships in strengthening cybersecurity;
Best practices for information sharing and data protection;
Advanced tools for combating cryptocrimes; and
Workforce development to prepare the next generation of cyber professionals.
Our San Francisco and Silicon Valley Cyber Sessions
Crystal Intelligence
The delegation’s first meeting was with Crystal Intelligence, a leading blockchain intelligence firm that equips financial institutions, law enforcement, and regulators with real-time blockchain analysis, investigative tools, and compliance solutions. The discussion centered on crypto risk and investigations, inspiring critical dialogue on use cases and their implications. Participants gained valuable insights into emerging cryptocrime trends and explored strategies to enhance monitoring and reporting.
San Francisco Bay Area InfraGard & Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), San Francisco
Our team also facilitated a meeting with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), San Francisco and the San Francisco Bay Area InfraGard, an FBI-affiliated nonprofit dedicated to strengthening bi-directional communications between government and the private sector on critical infrastructure protection. The discussion underscored the essential role of strong public-private partnerships in combating cybercrime.
With three delegates representing the Federal Investigations Agency (FIA)—the FBI-equivalent in Pakistan—this session carried particular significance. Engaging directly with their professional counterparts, the visitors exchanged strategies for cybersecurity risk management and threat assessment, drawing comparisons between the U.S. and Pakistan’s approaches and capacities. The discussion also emphasized workforce readiness initiatives, with both local and international participants sharing methods to cultivate the next generation of cyber professionals within their respective national contexts.
Institute for Security and Technology (IST)
A final meeting with the Institute for Security and Technology (IST) provided a deep dive into leveraging public-private partnerships to combat ransomware and other cyber threats. IST employs a multifaceted approach to addressing global security concerns, including not only cybersecurity risks and information warfare, but also the broader implications of technology on democracy and human security.
Through this discussion, the delegation gained a comprehensive understanding of cross-sector collaboration in tackling cyber threats. IST’s emphasis on bridging the gap between government and industry helped the participants conceptualize potential avenues for stakeholder engagement and policy coordination to address evolving security challenges.
Collectively, these meetings underscored the power of cross-cultural dialogue for greater cumulative impact. The direct exchanges between experts from the U.S. and Pakistan reinforced a global commitment to combating cybercrime, securing critical infrastructure, and bolstering the cyber workforce of the future.
Cultural Experiences in San Francisco
Home Hospitality
In addition to their professional meetings, the visitors deepened their understanding of U.S. culture and society through meaningful community-level experiences, including enjoying a meal with local San Franciscans as part of Global Ties San Francisco’s Home Hospitality Program.
Alcatraz Island
The group also explored Alcatraz Island through a private behind-the-scenes tour, offering a unique perspective on the island’s layered history and significance to varied communities in the San Francisco Bay Area. We extend our sincere gratitude to Ranger John Cantwell (Ret.) for leading this outstanding tour, as well as to our longstanding cultural hosts, Linda Cahill and Jim Horio, for helping arrange it.
In the cellhouse with Ranger John Cantwell (Ret.).
Restored graffiti and historic political statement from the 1969-1971 Indian Occupation of Alcatraz – learn more here and here.
In the lighthouse with Ranger Matt Connelly.
Visiting historic sites like Alcatraz provided our distinguished foreign visitors with a deeper connection to and understanding of American history and society. One visitor reflected on how the experience offered valuable insight into her work in law enforcement—seeing the history of this high-security prison and the conditions during its operation underscored the evolution of correctional practices, philosophies, and the broader U.S. justice system over time.
Sightseeing
To round out their time in the Bay Area, the group also took in the breathtaking scenery of Mount Tamalpais and Muir Beach, enjoying stunning panoramic and coastal views of these sites, along with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Palace of Fine Arts.
Exchanges Impact
This exchange program demonstrated the importance of information sharing and collaboration in addressing modern cybersecurity challenges. Through meetings with local experts, the delegation gained actionable insights on cyber threat mitigation, blockchain intelligence, and public-private cooperation, while also sharing their own experiences and approaches. Equally important, cultural experiences like Home Hospitality and historical site visits fostered deeper appreciation and understanding of our community and nation.
https://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Cybercrimes-Pakistan-Banner-1.png4241128Alannah Crandallhttps://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GT_SF_logo_tagline_CMYK_original-1030x155.pngAlannah Crandall2025-02-28 12:30:062025-03-31 00:27:07Tackling Cybercrimes: An Exchange for Pakistan
In collaboration with the Institute of International Education and the Office of International Visitors at the U.S. Department of State, Global Ties San Francisco had the privilege of implementing an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) project for Türkiye entitled, Approaches to Urban Search and Rescue in the United States.
During their stay in the San Francisco Bay Area from January 23-28, 2025, our four distinguished emergency management professionals — firefighters and city planning experts from İstanbul — connected with their local professional counterparts to exchange best practices and address shared challenges related to urban search and rescue (USAR) operations, specialized USAR training, and the integration of earthquake science into disaster management strategies.
Professional Highlights
A key focus of the meetings was the history of earthquakes in the Bay Area and the broader state of California, with particular attention to the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. The 6.9-magnitude earthquake, which struck approximately 56 miles (90 kilometers) south of San Francisco along the San Andreas fault, marked a turning point in California’s approach to safe transit infrastructure and disaster management protocols. This event, along with the 7.9-magnitude San Francisco earthquake in 1906, which also occurred along the San Andreas fault, were defining moments in the region’s seismic preparedness and response strategies.
The group’s discussions highlighted the shared seismic risks between our communities, drawing remarkable similarities between California’s San Andreas fault and Türkiye’s East Anatolian fault—the geological location of two massive 7.8- and 7.5-magnitude earthquakes that devastated Türkiye and Syria on February 6, 2023. The parallels between our two earthquake zones give local and global seismologists much to learn from one another, offering a window for “earthquake diplomacy” between nations.
Further topics explored included the critical role of statewide earthquake data collection and dissemination systems, such as the ShakeAlert® earthquake early warning system, and how these technologies are used to inform and protect Californians. These discussions provided valuable insights that can enhance earthquake resilience both locally and globally.
A discussion on emergency planning with the City of Oakland Fire Department’s Emergency Management Services Division highlighted shared challenges cities face during emergencies and demonstrated the value of exchanging best practices to maximize collective impact.
Cultural Experiences
Beyond their professional appointments, the visitors further enriched their understanding of the U.S. through a visit to the California Academy of Sciences, a group favorite due to its interactive shake room that simulates real earthquake experiences. Visitors particularly enjoyed this opportunity to explore a local earthquake preparedness and awareness center geared toward the public.
In addition, the international visitors enjoyed a special guided tour of San Francisco led by The Platinum Concierge, which took them through the City’s most iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park, Alamo Square and its famous Painted Ladies, Fisherman’s Wharf including Ghirardelli Square and the sea lions at Pier 39, Twin Peaks, Chinatown, North Beach, City Hall, Lombard Street, and Haight-Ashbury. One of the tour’s highlights was a visit to Ocean Beach, where participants had the chance to relax in the sand and take in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
International Collaboration
Overall, during their brief stay in the Bay Area, the international visitors engaged in productive professional discussions and enriching cultural activities. These interactions underscored the invaluable role of people-to-people exchange in addressing some of the most pressing challenges faced by the international community, particularly in fostering resilient communities that can withstand the impacts of environmental change and urban disasters.
https://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Urban-SAR-Newsletter-Banner_v2.png4241128Alannah Crandallhttps://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GT_SF_logo_tagline_CMYK_original-1030x155.pngAlannah Crandall2025-01-31 09:30:212025-02-21 00:56:52IVLP Highlight: Approaches to Urban Search and Rescue in the United States | Türkiye
From December 7-11, 2024, Global Ties San Francisco hosted the American Foreign Policy, Economic Security, and the People’s Republic of China delegation from Germany on behalf of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) and in partnership with World Learning.
During their stay in the San Francisco Bay Area, thirteen German academics, policy experts, journalists, and business representatives met with local Bay Area organizations to better understand American foreign policy and factors that shape economic security, to gain a West Coast perspective on U.S.-China trade relations, to engage with the local Chinese diaspora, and to ultimately bring back valuable insights to their respective regions in Germany.
Professional Highlights
A standout experience for the international visitors was their meeting with Mr. Ron Brown, a Maritime Marketing and Commodities representative at the Port of Oakland. Drawing upon Mr. Brown’s in-depth knowledge of local trade and commerce channels, our visitors explored how the Port of Oakland contributes to the economic viability and strength of the region by serving as one of California’s largest container ports and a critical export gateway for agricultural and refrigerated products from the region.
Visitors explore the Port of Oakland with Ron Brown
The discussion inspired insightful questions from the visitors, such as how the pandemic affected the Port’s operations, global trade partner relations, and the Port’s efforts to make operations more sustainable.
The visitors also enjoyed a tour and first-hand look at the Port’s efforts to become a zero-emissions seaport, with notable sights including state-of-the-art hybrid electric cranes.
Another professional meeting was the group’s discussion with Mr. Douglas Wallace, Director of the U.S. Export Assistance Center at the U.S. Commercial Service – San Francisco Office. The meeting examined the role of the U.S. Commercial Service in supporting local businesses’ efforts to expand internationally, particularly in the areas of economic development and security. Additionally, participants gained exposure to the greater U.S. Commercial Service ecosystem, which includes more than 100 U.S. Commercial Service offices nationwide and more than 70 international offices. Overall, the meeting helped contextualize economic services provided by the U.S federal government on the local level in California.
Other professional highlights included connecting the international visitors with the local Chinese diaspora and Asian American community artists through a visit to a cultural center, a meeting with notable scholars from the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, and a discussion with SEMI—a global microelectronics industry association.
Cultural Experiences
Beyond professional appointments, the visitors further enriched their understanding of the U.S. by sharing a meal with San Franciscans through Global Ties San Francisco’s Home Hospitality program.
“An unforgettable experience!”
In addition, the visitors also attended a Guided City Tour of San Francisco, exploring the beauty and most iconic sites that make San Francisco the famous “City by the Bay!”
Supporting People-to-People Diplomacy
Through successful IVLP programming like this project for Germany, Global Ties San Francisco aims to fulfill the mission of the Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program by connecting emerging foreign leaders to the United States to engage in people-to-people diplomacy, foster professional international relationships, and inspire strong global partnerships.
This November, Global Ties San Francisco was honored to host the Empowering Women Leaders in STEM in the Quad delegation for a U.S. Department of State International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) project administered in partnership with Meridian International Center. The group consisted of ten exceptional women leaders from Australia, India, and Japan representing diverse sectors united by a drive to advance women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.
During their three weeks in the United States, the International Visitors explored strategies to expand women’s roles in STEM innovation ecosystems and how they can institutionalize opportunities for women in their respective countries. From November 19 to 23, their journey culminated in Silicon Valley and Oakland, where Global Ties San Francisco organized notable meetings with industry leaders dedicated to driving equity and innovation.
Arrival Day
After an early arrival, the delegation enjoyed a late lunch in downtown San Francisco before walking to San Francisco City Hall, affectionately known as the People’s Palace. Its majestic beauty left the visitors in awe. The evening continued with a classic San Francisco experience: a cable car ride to Fisherman’s Wharf, where the group took in the twinkling lights of the City.
Meeting Highlights
SEMI: Advancing Women in the Microelectronics Industry
The delegation’s first stop was in Milpitas at SEMI, a global microelectronics industry association with programs, communities, initiatives, products, and advocacy to help members grow their business and address top challenges worldwide. Serving as the voice of the sector, SEMI represents the collective interests on a variety of public policy issues ranging from trade and tax to workforce development and R&D funding.
One such membership offering are SEMI’s Women in Semiconductors (WiS) programs that unpack what constitutes an inclusive workplace and why fostering greater inclusion leads to greater innovation, sense of belonging, and employee success.
The group engaged with three key SEMI leaders:
Ajit Manocha, President and Chief Executive Officer, who has driven SEMI to fuel industry growth and foster collaboration on challenges such as geopolitical and sustainability concerns, the talent gap, and supply chain disruptions.
Bettina Weiss, Chief of Staff and Corporate Strategy, who advances global strategic initiatives and facilitates thought leadership activities in key strategic areas.
Shari Liss, Vice President of Global Workforce Development and Initiatives and Executive Director of the SEMI Foundation, who leads workforce development programs and fosters Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) initiatives that attract more women, people of color, and veterans to the microelectronics industry.
The discussion centered on the importance of women’s involvement in critical and emerging technologies (CETs) such as semiconductors and microelectronics; efforts to advance DEIB and close the gender gap in the industry, especially at leadership levels; and the role of allyship and language in these efforts.
Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E): Equitable Access and Inclusive Economies
In Oakland, the group met with Tina Lee, Principal Product Manager of Utility Partnerships and Innovation at Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), one of the largest combination natural gas and electric utilities in the United States.
In this role, Tina’s work is rooted in advancing solutions to accelerate the clean energy transition while ensuring equitable access for disadvantaged communities. Moreover, as the founder of MotherCoders, Tina has been a trailblazer in helping women with children enter tech careers by providing training, workshops, and events with onsite childcare.
Through heartfelt exchanges, the meeting focused on advancing women’s equity in STEM fields and efforts to build inclusive economies. Visitors also shared their own experiences of fostering equity and related challenges and opportunities.
Cultural Experiences
Beyond professional meetings, the delegation further enriched their understanding of the U.S. by immersing themselves in San Francisco’s vibrant culture and entertainment.
The visitors arrived at Chinatown’s Dragon Gate via a self-driving Waymo — making them one of our first groups to try this exciting new experience.
They visited the Fortune Cookie Factory.
On their final night before returning to their home countries, the visitors enjoyed Red and White Fleet’s San Francisco City Lights Cruise. Despite the cold and rain, the group embraced the experience, capturing selfies, sharing laughter, and playing Heads Up to make the most of their time together.
Later that evening, back at the hotel, two visitors organized an informal awards ceremony with miniature trophies — a sentimental and memorable closure to their program and an apt reflection of the cohesive, adaptable, and dynamic spirit of this group.
Why Exchanges Matter
The Empowering Women Leaders in STEM in the Quad project underscores the profound impact of international exchanges in fostering cross-cultural collaboration and addressing global challenges. By facilitating dialogue between global leaders and local innovators, we contribute to a more inclusive, equitable, and interconnected world.
We are proud to have supported this delegation’s journey — one that directly aligns with our own commitment to expanding access to citizen diplomacy right here in the San Francisco Bay Area.
https://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Empowering-Women-in-STEM_banner.png4241128Alannah Crandallhttps://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GT_SF_logo_tagline_CMYK_original-1030x155.pngAlannah Crandall2024-11-29 17:00:502024-12-20 00:33:35IVLP Highlight: Empowering Women Leaders in STEM in the Quad
On September 24, 2024, Global Ties San Francisco hosted a free community social hour and networking event with meaningful conversations over delicious food!
Meet Our Spring 2025 Intern!
Meet Our Spring 2025 Intern!
