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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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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: Isabelle Coloma

Meet Our Summer 2025 Intern!

Meet Isabelle Coloma, one of our International Programs interns this summer. Isabelle is a master’s student of International Comparative Education at Stanford University, researching global citizenship education and curriculum design.

Her spirited interest in international engagement and service began with high school Mandarin Chinese classes and deepened through a study abroad in Hong Kong, where she navigated a new educational system and the vibrant complexities of a global city.

During her internship with Global Ties San Francisco, Isabelle is most looking forward to engaging with various local and global policy issues while gaining the unique perspectives of our international visitors.

“International cooperation begins with conversations. I am excited to understand the role of citizen diplomacy in advancing the long-term goals of productive dialogue and cultural understanding.”

Committed to mutual learning through collaborative dialogue and cross-cultural communication, Isabelle is eager to gain experience in public diplomacy, examine its convergence with her interests in global education, and explore how Global Ties San Francisco advances U.S. foreign policy through international exchange.

Outside of her academic studies, she enjoys spending her free time learning about other cultures through food, language, and soap operas.

Welcome to the intern team, Isabelle!

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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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