Meet our International Programs internArthur Lueck, who recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs from the University of Colorado Boulder.
Arthur was drawn to the Global Ties San Francisco internship program because it offers hands-on experience in a field that aligns with his interests and future career goals. He is inspired by the organization’s role in bringing people together through international exchange and fostering global engagement.
“During this internship, I am most looking forward to interacting cross-culturally on an international level as well as engaging with and learning from delegations while improving my communication skills in a real-world setting.”
One of the biggest adventures of Arthur’s life so far was studying abroad in Rome. The experience introduced him to fascinating people around every corner, and his newfound friends brought him on ventures he never would have thought possible. One of his favorite memories was visiting a friend’s hometown in Sicily, where he found himself gathered around a table with 20 Italians who spoke little English — while he also did not speak Italian. Even still, everyone found ways to navigate lively conversation. Experiences like these sparked his desire to continue exploring and learning from different cultures in the years to come.
In his free time, Arthur enjoys skiing, running, surfing, fishing, and anything that gets him outside.
Our most recent U.S. Department of State International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) delegation made their way to the San Francisco Bay Area earlier this month as part of their Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists: AI and Technology in Journalism exchange. This project brought together six European broadcast reporters, editors, journalists, and media executives united by a common pursuit: to better understand how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping journalistic practices.
Over five packed days in the San Francisco Bay Area, a media and tech innovation hub, the delegates engaged with academics, technologists, legal professionals, and media experts to explore how newsrooms across the world can adapt, innovate, and uphold core media values in an era of rapidly evolving technology. Our program showcased America’s leadership in artificial intelligence and technology for journalism, emphasizing how Silicon Valley innovations can strengthen reporting and public understanding.
Day 1: Exploring San Francisco’s History and Culture
The group kicked off their visit with a classic introduction to San Francisco, spending Sunday morning on a guided city tour led by The Platinum Concierge. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the Palace of Fine Arts and the Painted Ladies, they experienced some of the city’s most celebrated landmarks.
As they traveled through various neighborhoods, the contrast between soaring modern skyscrapers, historic architecture, lush parks, and rolling hills served as a foundation for the start of the professional program, tying in the history of the San Francisco with the current focus of modern innovation.
Day 2: From Universities and Tech Hubs to Veteran Journalists and America’s Pastime
Santa Clara University – Markkula Center for Applied Ethics
Monday morning opened with a trip south to Silicon Valley, visiting Santa Clara University’s Markkula Center for Applied Ethics. This collaborative initiative brings together journalists, media professionals, technologists, and scholars to develop practical frameworks that guide responsible decision-making in the creation and distribution of news. The visitors explored efforts to equip media professionals to navigate complex editorial decisions while strengthening public credibility, with a dual focus on maintaining integrity in reporting and adapting standards to emerging digital and AI-driven technologies.
From this conversation, an interesting discovery arose on how journalists utilize AI: mostly to transcribe, analyze data, and edit articles. The delegates also brought their own expertise to the table, tying in the questions of AI and trustworthy journalism from their respective countries.
Perplexity AI
After enjoying lunch and exploring the local vendors and quaint shops at the Ferry Building in San Francisco, the group headed to Perplexity, an AI-powered search and research platform that has emerged as one of Silicon Valley’s most talked about startups. A representative walked visitors through Perplexity’s large language model- and generative AI-based answer engine, emphasizing its focus on credibility and source citations for verifiable results.
The company’s approach to accuracy, transparency, and user trust resonated with the delegates’ priorities in their own newsrooms. For journalists and media experts grappling with how AI is changing research and information dissemination, the discussion offered fresh perspective into how tech companies can take a responsible approach toward their impact on public understanding.
Butler Media
Rounding out the first full day of the program, the delegation met with Butler Media founded by a veteran broadcast journalist. Drawing on four decades of experience in radio and television, the speaker shared insights into the evolution of broadcast journalism from the birth of the internet to the latest developments in AI; the intersection of traditional and digital media; and what it takes to maintain editorial integrity and audience trust in a time of information overload. Veteran practitioner perspectives gave the visitors a grounded, human-centered focus to complement previous tech-revolved conversations.
The Last Inning of the Day at Oracle Park
After a productive day of meetings, the group was excited to get a taste of America’s favorite pastime and headed to Oracle Park for the San Francisco Giants baseball game against the San Diego Padres. As part of a true cultural experience, the group took note of how engrained baseball is in American civic and cultural life with ties to community and tradition. A win for the San Francisco Giants was a perfect way to end the night!
Day 3: Final Professional Meetings on American Institutions and Values
Stanford University – Hoover Institution’s Center for Revitalizing American Institutions
Tuesday took the group down to the beautiful Stanford University campus for a meeting at the Hoover Institution’s Center for Revitalizing American Institutions (RAI), a public policy think tank promoting the principles of individual, economic, and political freedom. The group met with representatives whose work focuses on rebuilding trust in American Institutions, AI governance, technology policy, and First Amendment law.
Conversation centered on the critical role that media, journalism, and free expression play in democratic societies and on public discourse, with a focus on the challenges that emerging technologies pose. Coming from different cultural contexts, the delegates provided unique and varied perspectives into the pressures they face when it comes to media practices and changing technology. This created an exchange that was both intellectually driven and personal, leaving a meaningful impact on everyone in the room.
First Amendment Coalition (FAC)
The group’s last stop brought them back to San Francisco for a meeting with the First Amendment Coalition (FAC), a nonprofit public interest organization dedicated to upholding First Amendment values. Discussion led by a journalist-turned-lawyer centered on FAC’s work challenging press restrictions and serving as a legal resource for journalists and everyday citizens.
The conversation highlighted how legal frameworks and nonprofit organizations work together to support the conditions that make quality journalism possible. As this final meeting came to an end, the delegates reflected that although legal regulations may differ across countries, journalists worldwide recognize the importance of transparency and expression in strengthening democracy.
Leaving San Francisco with a Shared Conviction
From the challenges and opportunities of AI-assisted content to the legal frameworks upholding democratic values, this delegation covered some of the most pressing questions facing journalism today. Across the wide range of topics discussed, a common theme emerged: the need for commitments to accuracy and media integrity to keep pace with the rapid development of technologies that are reshaping how news is produced, discovered, and consumed.
The delegates returned home not only with new information and contacts, but also with a renewed sense of connection to the global community of journalists working to uphold these principles.
Global Ties San Francisco is grateful to all the local experts who shared their time, knowledge, and perspectives, and we look forward to seeing the connections forged this week grow into lasting professional bonds.
https://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Murrow-Banner-2-1.png4241128Alannah Crandallhttps://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GT_SF_logo_tagline_CMYK_original-1030x155.pngAlannah Crandall2026-05-18 09:00:482026-06-01 17:03:46Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists: AI and Technology in Journalism | Europe
Meet our International Programs internNatalie Amanian, who recently graduated with a degree in International Relations from the University of California, Davis, with a focus on peoples and nationalities and a deep interest in cross-cultural understanding and diplomacy.
During this internship, Natalie is especially looking forward to supporting program development and engaging with delegates from around the world. The chance to collaborate with professionals shaping global diplomacy strongly resonates with Natalie’s own aspirations.
“This internship with Global Ties San Francisco felt like a rare opportunity to be directly involved in the kind of cross-cultural dialogue that I deeply care about.”
One of Natalie’s most meaningful adventures was traveling to Armenia to tutor and mentor youth in rural villages. The experience was both challenging and grounding, underscoring the power of community-based initiatives and strengthening Natalie’s commitment to international work rooted in empathy and connection.
During free time, Natalie runs a small ceramic jewelry business, creating pieces that connect people through art. Additional interests include exploring local ecology, learning languages, and participating in community events that bring people together.
From September 23-27, 2025, Global Ties San Francisco hosted nine senior government officials, policy advisors, researchers, and cybersecurity leaders from Germany and Sweden for a U.S. Department of State International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) project on artificial intelligence (AI) policy, innovation and security.
Throughout the program, the participants and their U.S. interlocutors were united by expertise in AI and digital governance, cybersecurity, and the responsible use of data and emerging technologies to strengthen democratic institutions, public sector innovation, and resilience against malign influence. Building on this shared foundation, the program strengthened transatlantic collaboration on a responsible and innovative AI ecosystem by examining U.S. approaches to innovation and risk-based regulation and aligning strategies for secure digital infrastructure.
Starting in Washington, DC, the group traveled to Minneapolis, Phoenix, and Sacramento, engaging with local leaders and innovators to examine how these issues vary across the nation. The program concluded in the San Francisco Bay Area, the world’s premier hub for innovation, where participants focused on the region’s startup ecosystem and its role in advancing next-generation AI systems. Our local city stop also highlighted the development of sustainable and ethical AI models, human-centered design practices, and strategies for fostering economic growth through early-stage investment.
Key Conversations
World Economic Forum – Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR)
Under the fog-shrouded Golden Gate Bridge, the group met with the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR), a platform for “multistakeholder dialogue and concrete cooperation on governance challenges and opportunities presented by advanced technologies.” Here, WEF stays closely connected to the Bay Area’s influential ecosystem of startups, investors, and tech giants that steer the global economy’s most important innovations and decisions. Meeting with AI and data governance leaders, the visitors examined how C4IR advances public-private cooperation on emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), AI, and blockchain, with a focus on developing policy frameworks that enable responsible and widespread use. They outlined key WEF initiatives such as those focused on AI agents and AGI, offering insights the visitors could bring back with them from a region that has long set the pace in cutting-edge technology.
Plug and Play Tech Center
At the entrance to Plug and Play Tech Center, a large Persian carpet — a nod to the founders’ beginnings — set the stage for the group’s second meeting of the day. The delegation toured the tech center, examining its origin story and mission as a leading Silicon Valley startup accelerator and corporate innovation platform that connects tech-focused startups with global corporations, investors, and public sector partners. The visitors also met with enterprise and AI ventures leaders to discuss the dynamics of the Silicon Valley startup landscape, and how Plug and Play helps startups scale by facilitating strategic connections, mentorship, and investment. The conversation touched on access to venture capital, mentorship networks, and the key factors that influence startup growth in one of the world’s most competitive markets.
Stanford University – Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI)
The delegation started the next morning at Stanford University’s Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI), a global leader in interdisciplinary research focused on ensuring that AI is developed and used in ways that benefit humanity. Grounded in the belief that AI should be collaborative, augmentative, and aligned with human values, HAI explores the societal impact of AI across three core areas: human impact, augment human capabilities, and intelligence. A discussion on HAI’s vision for the future allowed the visitors to examine how artificial intelligence interacts with individuals and key institutions, and to reflect on policy and governance strategies that support responsible and human-centered AI development.
500 Global
The group rounded out the Silicon Valley tour at 500 Global, which backs founders of high-growth technology companies around the world and helps startups scale. Here, discussion centered on how 500 Global cultivates startup ecosystems, drives AI-enabled innovation, and fosters cross-border collaboration among entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers.
Tying it All Together: Facilitated Synthesis Session
We also incorporated one of our signature offerings: a Reflection and Synthesis Session led by an award-winning commercial attorney, mediator, and facilitator, as well as a non-profit leader, entrepreneur, and change agent, with a strong focus on responsible AI. The session provided structured time for participants to reflect on their three-week IVLP experience, distill key insights, and map out concrete next steps.
Through facilitated exercises, the visitors identified and shared core takeaways from the project, explored how U.S. approaches and best practices could be adapted to their own professional contexts, and assessed related challenges and opportunities. The session concluded with dedicated time for participants to begin outlining actionable plans to implement upon their return home.
Exploring the Bay Area Beyond AI
With days fluctuating between classic San Francisco fog and sunny afternoons with crystal-clear views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the visitors thoroughly enjoyed their free time. They explored Fisherman’s Wharf, took a Bay cruise, attended a hockey game, and had lunch in the charming waterfront town of Sausalito.
Final Reflections
By demonstrating the U.S. approach toward innovation and AI legislation, this project sought to leverage AI’s promise in both Germany and the United States while also addressing possible dangers. In reflecting on their journey, delegates recognized that each encounter revealed not just how the U.S. leads in innovation, but how that leadership thrives through openness, collaboration, and the courage to experiment. The experience inspired them to translate those lessons into their own national contexts, strengthening transatlantic ties, and shaping a more connected, human-centered approach to AI and technology.
Meet our International Programs internSamuel Joon Fernandez, a graduate student of Global Studies at the University of San Francisco. He is enrolled in their accelerated 4+1 Global Studies program, which allows students to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in five years. Having already completed the undergraduate portion of the program, Sam earned a double BA in International Studies and Dance and is on track to receive his MA after only one year of graduate school.
Sam was drawn to Global Ties San Francisco’s internship program because of the opportunity to contribute to proposal development—researching global issues, shaping compelling narratives, and supporting the process of securing international exchange programs that advance public and cultural diplomacy.
“I am most looking forward to exploring the practical applications of my academic studies while showcasing the importance of Global Ties San Francisco as an organization and International Studies as a profession.”
Sam’s biggest adventure in life to date was moving abroad to Germany during his junior year of university. This nine-month experience opened his eyes to the intricate nuances of cultural diplomacy and the dynamics of soft power across Europe’s closely knit countries. His studies in Germany also informed his undergraduate capstone project, which analyzed the Eurovision Song Contest as a case study of cultural export. Moreover, this experience encouraged him to continue traveling and inspired him to conduct master’s thesis research abroad in Denmark.
When he is not occupied with his graduate studies, Sam works as a dancer and choreographer, specializing in hip-hop and street-jazz dance.
Meet our International Programs internAmina Bakiyeva, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Human Rights at San José State University.
Her journey into international affairs began when she moved to the U.S. from Kazakhstan at the age of 13. Growing up in two culturally diverse environments sparked her passion for foreign languages and international politics. Throughout her academic career, she has studied multiple foreign languages, conducted research on international relations issues, and led culture-based organizations on campus.
With this foundation, Amina was eager to join Global Ties San Francisco, as its efforts to foster mutual understanding and support subnational diplomacy through cultural and professional exchange align closely with her interests. During her internship, she hopes to gain valuable skills and connections that will prepare her for a future career in diplomacy and international affairs.
“I am looking forward to contributing to the International Visitor Leadership Program, where I will help facilitate important exchanges that create lasting connections between foreign leaders and American communities.”
Outside of her academic and professional interests, Amina enjoys gymnastics, taekwon-do, dancing, hiking, reading, and spending time with her two cats, Lily and Evie.
Foreign Policy, Economic Security, and China | Eurasia (25 visitors) – June 19-25
Tackling Waterborne and Vector-borne Diseases to Strengthen Health Sector Resilience | Africa (9 visitors) – June 24
Combating Coercive Violence II | Africa (8 visitors) – June 27-29
Community-based Models for Addressing Mental Health Challenges | Poland (9 visitors) – July 9-13
Cybersecurity in Critical Telecom Infrastructure | Türkiye (6 visitors) – July 18-23
Community Engagement in the Political Process | Switzerland (6 visitors) – July 19-24
Energy Security | Israel (6 visitors) – July 23-28(RESCHEDULED FROM FEBRUARY)
The Role of Think Tanks in Public Policy | Kazakhstan (7 visitors) – July 26
Advanced Battery Chemistries | India (5 visitors) – July 30 – August 2
Economic Development and the Bioeconomy | Multi-Regional (7 visitors) – July 31 – August 2
Women in Politics and Civil Society | Multi-Regional Project (6 visitors) – August 23
Partnering on a Quantum Future | Slovenia (12 visitors) – August 27-30
U.S. Innovation in Water Resource Management | Pakistan (10 visitors) – September 1
Project Management and Strategic Communications | Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Secretariat (9 visitors) – September 6-9
Media Innovation for Telugu Media Professionals | India (4 visitors) – September 12-13
Performing Arts and Cultural Centers in the United States | The People’s Republic of China (11 visitors) – September 20
Artificial Intelligence: Policy, Innovation, and Security | Germany & Sweden (10 visitors) – September 23-27
Combating Money Laundering and Recovering Stolen Assets | Kazakhstan (6 visitors) – September 25-30
ASEAN: Maritime Policy and Security Coordination in the South China Sea | East Asia and Pacific (9 visitors) – September 30 – October 4(RESCHEDULED FROM JULY)
Advancing Digital Security and Development – ASEAN/Quad | Inter-Regional Project (12 visitors) – October 4-8
Law Enforcement Approaches to Countering CCP Influence | Italy (8 visitors) – October 8-12
Energy as an Economic Driver | Multi-Regional (16 visitors) – October 15-18(RESCHEDULED FROM MARCH)
Research Security and Innovation | Portugal & Spain (11 visitors) – October 22-25
Strategies for Stability and Economic Resilience | Western Hemisphere (9 visitors) – October 24-25
Strategies to Counter Terrorism | Europe (10 visitors) – October 31 – November 1(CANCELED)
Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists: Investigative Reporting | Africa (15 visitors) – November 1-5(CANCELED)
Advancing U.S.-Philippine Relations for American Semiconductor Supply Chains | Philippines (10 visitors) – November 2-5
Technology Innovators: Artificial Intelligence – Harnessing the Power of Technology | Multi-Regional (24 visitors) – November 4-8(CANCELED)
Biotech Investment and Trade in the United States | France (4 visitors) – December 3-7
His interest in international relations was sparked by school music tours in Japan and Iceland, experiences made unforgettable by the warmth and hospitality of his hosts in those countries.
In this internship, he is most excited to pay that hospitality forward and promote relationships of peace and trust with international visitors.
“I enjoyed studying international relations in college, but I never thought I would have an opportunity to gain work experience in that field. The Global Ties San Francisco internship was the most unique of positions I was considering, and I knew that if I didn’t choose it, I would always wonder what might have happened if I had.”
Andreas is a musician and an aspiring urban planner. In his free time, he likes to read, attempt new recipes, take the Muni, and connect with friends.
On July 31, 2025, Global Ties San Francisco hosted a free community social hour and networking event with meaningful conversations over delicious food!
Meet our International Programs internGiovanna Basso, who graduated in May 2025 from Minerva University with a bachelor’s degree in social sciences with a concentration in political science.
As part of Minerva’s global education program, Giovanna lived and studied in seven countries, gaining firsthand experience in cultural diplomacy. From throwing paint during Holi in India and dancing the Argentine tango, to sharing aspirations during a lantern festival in Taipei and sleeping in a traditional Korean Hanok house, she embraced the diverse cultures and perspectives that shape our world.
Now, as an intern at Global Ties San Francisco, she is excited to help ensure that visitors to San Francisco have the best exchange experience possible—one that will leave them as captivated by the city as she was.
“During my internship, I am most looking forward to experiencing the unique dynamics of international diplomacy at the local level as Global Ties San Francisco hosts international delegations in the Bay Area. I am eager to explore how everyday people contribute to U.S. diplomacy efforts, and how countries with more traditional approaches to diplomacy can gain insights from public diplomacy.”
For her undergraduate capstone, Giovanna explored the intersection of etiquette and diplomacy. She plans to continue her education in international relations and ultimately pursue a career with the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the protocol department, where she hopes to create meaningful experiences for visiting dignitaries.
In addition to her interests in global affairs, Giovanna enjoys reading, swimming, and experimenting with cooking.
Meet Our Fall 2025 Intern!