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Our 2026 Exchange Programs Portfolio

International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP)

  1. Foreign Policy, Economic Security, and China | Europe (19 visitors) – March 27 – April 1
    • Countries represented: Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Finland, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Netherlands, Poland, Republic of North Macedonia, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, United Kingdom
  2. Young Parliamentarians: Strategies for Legislative Success | Pakistan (3 visitors) – April 3-5
  3. An Open, Reliable, and Secure Digital Economy | Brazil (5 visitors) – April 9-14
  4. Combating Drug Trafficking | India (3 visitors) – April 10-11
  5. Emerging Technologies Commercialization and Innovation | Uzbekistan (7 visitors) – April 14-18
  6. Advancing an Open and Secure Digital Economy II | Multi-Regional (19 visitors) – April 22-25
    • Countries represented: Argentina, Bangladesh, Canada, Japan, Kenya, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Poland, Samoa, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tonga, Uganda, Zimbabwe
  7. U.S. Approaches to Advancing AI Education | Estonia (10 visitors) – April 26-30
  8. Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists: AI and Technology in Journalism | Europe (6 visitors) – May 2-6
    • Countries represented: Croatia, Italy, Moldova, Poland, Türkiye, Ukraine
  9. AI Innovation and Security | Multi-Regional (5 visitors) – June 26 – July 1
    • Countries represented: Belarus, Bolivia, Burundi, Italy, Kuwait
  10. Cooperation for Economic Growth | Japan (8 visitors) – July 27 – August 1
  11. Artificial Intelligence: Safe, Secure, and Competitive Innovation | Brazil (9 visitors) – July 29 – August 1

Interested in becoming a Professional Resource or Home Hospitality host for our international visitors?

Express Interest Today!

Last Updated: June 29, 2026

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Intern Spotlight: Jane Rudenko

Meet Our Summer 2026 Intern!

Meet our International Programs intern Jane Rudenko, a politics major at New York University. She is eager to apply her studies of policy, theory, and history beyond the classroom and explore how academic ideas translate into meaningful, real-world work.

Jane is passionate about people-centered work, a commitment put into practice in her recent role as an Emergency Medical Technician. This transformative experience taught her the importance of supplementing preparation with adaptability and strengthened her ability to connect with and support people in a range of situations.

Drawn to this internship’s focus on international relations and community collaboration, Jane is excited to continue building meaningful people-to-people ties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

“During my time at Global Ties San Francisco, I look forward to interacting with current and emerging leaders from around the world and experiencing diplomacy through human connection. I am excited to see how the exchange of ideas can foster long-lasting relationships between nations.”

In her free time, she enjoys painting, baking, and taking road trips with friends.

Welcome to the intern team, Jane!

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Intern Spotlight: Arthur Lueck

Meet Our Summer 2026 Intern!

Meet our International Programs intern Arthur 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.

Welcome to the intern team, Arthur!

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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, 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.

Welcome to the intern team, Natalie!

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Intern Spotlight: Samuel Joon Fernandez

Meet Our Spring 2026 Intern!

Meet our International Programs intern Samuel 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.

Welcome to the intern team, Sam!

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Intern Spotlight: Amina Bakiyeva

Meet Our Fall 2025 Intern!

Meet our International Programs intern Amina 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.

Welcome to the intern team, Amina!

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Our 2025 Exchange Programs Portfolio

International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP)

  1. Approaches to Urban Search and Rescue in the United States | Republic of Türkiye (4 visitors) – January 23-28
  2. Global Government-to-Government Partnership (G3P): R.T. | Japan (1 visitor) – February 12-18
  3. Rural Economic Opportunity Through Binational Tourism | Japan (7 visitors) – March 25-29
  4. Media Management | Fiji (8 visitors) – April 12-16
    Visual Arts for Community Impact | Multi-Regional Project (26 visitors) – April 15-19 (CANCELED)
  5. Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management | Morocco (6 visitors) – April 17-20
  6. Trafficking in Persons: Prevention and Mitigation I | Multi-Regional Project (22 visitors) – April 30 – May 3
  7. Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management | Multi-Regional Project (24 visitors) – May 8-14
  8. Emergency Preparedness and Crisis Response | Taiwan (9 visitors) – May 10-14
  9. Religious Freedom Enhanced by Interfaith Understanding | Kazakhstan (6 visitors) – May 17-22
  10. Promoting Strategic Artificial Intelligence Engagement | Kazakhstan (6 visitors) – June 14-18
  11. Foreign Policy, Economic Security, and China | Eurasia (25 visitors) – June 19-25
  12. Tackling Waterborne and Vector-borne Diseases to Strengthen Health Sector Resilience | Africa (9 visitors) – June 24
  13. Combating Coercive Violence II | Africa (8 visitors) – June 27-29
  14. Community-based Models for Addressing Mental Health Challenges | Poland (9 visitors) – July 9-13
  15. Cybersecurity in Critical Telecom Infrastructure | Türkiye (6 visitors) – July 18-23
  16. Community Engagement in the Political Process | Switzerland (6 visitors) – July 19-24
  17. Energy Security | Israel (6 visitors) – July 23-28 (RESCHEDULED FROM FEBRUARY)
  18. The Role of Think Tanks in Public Policy | Kazakhstan (7 visitors) – July 26
  19. Advanced Battery Chemistries | India (5 visitors) – July 30 – August 2
  20. Economic Development and the Bioeconomy | Multi-Regional (7 visitors) – July 31 – August 2
  21. Women in Politics and Civil Society | Multi-Regional Project (6 visitors) – August 23
  22. Partnering on a Quantum Future | Slovenia (12 visitors) – August 27-30
  23. U.S. Innovation in Water Resource Management | Pakistan (10 visitors) – September 1
  24. Project Management and Strategic Communications | Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Secretariat (9 visitors) – September 6-9
  25. Media Innovation for Telugu Media Professionals | India (4 visitors) – September 12-13
  26. Performing Arts and Cultural Centers in the United States | The People’s Republic of China (11 visitors) – September 20
  27. Artificial Intelligence: Policy, Innovation, and Security | Germany & Sweden (10 visitors) – September 23-27
  28. Combating Money Laundering and Recovering Stolen Assets | Kazakhstan (6 visitors) – September 25-30
  29. ASEAN: Maritime Policy and Security Coordination in the South China Sea | East Asia and Pacific (9 visitors) – September 30 – October 4 (RESCHEDULED FROM JULY)
  30. Advancing Digital Security and Development – ASEAN/Quad | Inter-Regional Project (12 visitors) – October 4-8
  31. Law Enforcement Approaches to Countering CCP Influence | Italy (8 visitors) – October 8-12
  32. Energy as an Economic Driver | Multi-Regional (16 visitors) – October 15-18 (RESCHEDULED FROM MARCH)
  33. Research Security and Innovation | Portugal & Spain (11 visitors) – October 22-25
  34. Strategies for Stability and Economic Resilience | Western Hemisphere (9 visitors) – October 24-25
  35. Strategies to Counter Terrorism | Europe (10 visitors) – October 31 – November 1 (CANCELED)
  36. Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists: Investigative Reporting | Africa (15 visitors) – November 1-5 (CANCELED)
  37. Advancing U.S.-Philippine Relations for American Semiconductor Supply Chains | Philippines (10 visitors) – November 2-5
  38. Technology Innovators: Artificial Intelligence – Harnessing the Power of Technology | Multi-Regional (24 visitors) – November 4-8 (CANCELED)
  39. Biotech Investment and Trade in the United States | France (4 visitors) – December 3-7
  40. Advancing Science-based U.S.-Thailand Trade Cooperation | Thailand (5 visitors) – December 10-12
  41. Mega Sporting Events and Economic Prosperity III | Multi-Regional (22 visitors) – December 11-16
    • Australia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Palau, Samoa, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Tanzania, Trinidad and Tobago, United Kingdom, Uruguay, Zimbabwe
  42. Global Government-to-Government Partnership (G3P): K.N. | Japan (1 visitor) – December 13-17
  43. Global Government-to-Government Partnership (G3P): Y.Y. | Japan (1 visitor) – December 13-17
  44. Promoting Cybersecurity | Western Hemisphere (12 visitors) – December 16-20
    • Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, Paraguay, Uruguay
  45. Best Practices in Foreign Investment Screening | Japan & Korea (8 visitors) – December 17-20 (RESCHEDULED FROM NOVEMBER)

Custom Fee-For-Service

  1. Tackling Cybercrimes – A Key to Modern Trade International Exchange and Leadership Program (IELP) | Pakistan (8 participants) – February 13-19
  2. Friends, Partners, and Allies Program for Journalists | Japan, Philippines (10 participants) – June 4-10
  3. Road to 250 – A Program for Filipino Creators | Philippines (4 participants) – November 12-15

Interested in serving as a Professional Resource or Home Hospitality host for our international visitors?

Express Interest Today!

Final Update: November 18, 2025

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Intern Spotlight: Andreas Olvera

Meet Our Fall 2025 Intern!

Meet our International Programs intern Andreas Olvera, a senior at Westmont College earning a degree in mathematics.

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.

Welcome to the intern team, Andreas!

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Intern Spotlight: Giovanna Basso

Meet Our Fall 2025 Intern!

Meet our International Programs intern Giovanna 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.

Welcome to the intern team, Giovanna!

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