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Intern Spotlight: Natalie Amanian

Meet Our Spring 2026 Intern!

Meet our International Programs intern Natalie Amanian, who recently graduated with a degree in International Relations from the University of California, Davis, where they focused on peoples and nationalities and cultivated a deep interest in cross-cultural understanding and diplomacy.

During this internship, they are 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 their 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 both challenged and grounded them, underscoring the power of community-based initiatives and strengthening their commitment to international work rooted in empathy and connection.

In their free time, Natalie runs a small ceramic jewelry business, creating pieces that connect people through art. They also enjoy exploring local ecology, learning languages, and participating in community events that bring people together.

Welcome to the intern team, Natalie!

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Intern Spotlight: Genevieve Whitford

Meet Our Summer 2025 Intern!

Meet Genevieve Whitford, one of our International Programs interns this summer. Originally from Australia, Gen currently studies International Relations at the University of St Andrews in Scotland.

Drawn to Global Ties San Francisco’s aim to connect global leaders with local innovation, Gen saw the internship as an exciting opportunity to contribute to cross-cultural dialogue while gaining an understanding of the inner workings of diplomacy, exchange, and globally connected initiatives.

“The chance to contribute to meaningful cross-cultural dialogue while gaining practical insight into how international partnerships are built particularly appealed to me. I am also drawn to San Francisco as a city and wanted to spend my summer somewhere dynamic and exciting!”

During her time with Global Ties San Francisco, she is looking forward to building meaningful connections, exploring California’s rich cultural and historical landscape, and being part of a team at the forefront of international engagement.

One of Gen’s greatest adventures to date was moving to Munich, Germany during her gap year — sparking her passion for travel, cultural exchange, and a future in diplomacy.

Welcome to the intern team, Gen!

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Intern Spotlight: Lily Langley

Meet Our Spring 2025 Intern!

Meet Lily Langley, one of our International Programs interns this spring. Lily recently graduated from the University of San Francisco, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies with a concentration in Global Politics and Societies and a regional focus in Europe, as well as a minor in German Studies.

“During this internship, I am most looking forward to gaining experience with an organization dedicated to international affairs and diplomacy. I am also eager to discover and promote the Bay Area’s diverse expertise to the global community, helping foster cross-cultural connections and the exchange of ideas.”

Lily’s passion for languages, diplomacy, tourism, and international relations drew her to Global Ties San Francisco. At USF, she deepened her academic interests in language and global politics, and her time abroad inspired her to continue engaging with new cultures. She is excited that this internship program allows her to explore these interests further in a professional setting.

Outside of work, Lily enjoys going to the movies, crafting, and reading. She especially likes books with compelling protagonists, creative retellings, and unique settings.

Welcome to the intern team, Lily!

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Intern Spotlight: Valleigh Brechtel

Meet Our Spring 2025 Intern!

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.

Welcome to the intern team, Valleigh!

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Intern Spotlight: Leila Shawrieh

Meet Leila Shawrieh, a summer 2024 International Programs Intern at Global Ties San Francisco.

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