Meet our International Programs internNatalie 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.
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.
From July 18 to July 23, 2025, Global Ties San Francisco hosted five Turkish participants of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) on Cybersecurity in Critical Telecom Infrastructure. Administered by Meridian International Center, this IVLP project connected information communication technology (ICT) experts from telecommunications operators and the national regulatory agency in Türkiye with local multinational technology and digital communications companies.
During these meetings, international visitors explored current approaches to upgrading the design and deployment of critical digital infrastructure, and private industry perspectives on cybersecurity issues and the development of public-private partnership and collaboration.
Cultural Experiences in San Francisco and Silicon Valley
The visitors’ stay in the San Francisco Bay Area began with a series of cultural sightseeing tours. On the Golden Gate Bay Cruise, they enjoyed views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island with the Red and White Fleet, which has provided visitors with a narrated history of the City since 1939. Following a brief stop at the historic Fisherman’s Wharf, the group went on an excursion to Muir Woods National Monument to take in the breathtaking sights of the coastal Redwood trees.
Later in the week, a stop by the Google Visitor Experience allowed the group to enjoy locally sourced food, browse goods and products from local entrepreneurs and businesses, and explore interactive art installations on the Mountain View campus.
In furthering Global Ties San Francisco’s efforts to foster mutual understanding through people-to-people exchanges, delegates shared a welcoming meal with local Bay Area residents through Home Hospitality visits to learn more about American life and culture.
Professional Meetings
Astranis Space Technologies Corp.
The delegation’s professional meetings on Monday began in San Francisco with a morning visit to Astranis Space Technologies Corp., a company that develops advanced, radiation-tolerant satellites and partners with governments to support broadband services. Representatives from engineering, diplomacy, technology, and business joined the visit, reflecting the broad range of perspectives involved in Astranis’ work. Astranis is advancing its flagship MicroGEO communication satellites—which feature software-defined radio and resilient hardware—through collaboration with industry, government, and international institutions. The company’s global engagement efforts include tailoring solutions with commercial and government partners to meet their specific communication needs efficiently and cost-effectively.
Cisco Systems
In the afternoon, the delegation continued their explorations of U.S. network and telecommunication infrastructure with Cisco Systems, an American multinational corporation that delivers products, services, and solutions to support its customers’ digital communications needs. During this meeting, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Cisco Provider Mobility Masum Mir provided insight into his team’s role in the development of AI, 6G, and cybersecurity technology and investments. As the delegates explored the corporation’s various brownfield and greenfield data center deployment approaches relevant to Türkiye’s telecom infrastructure, the dialogue was further enriched by the exchange occurring in both Turkish and English.
Rakuten Symphony
On Tuesday, the delegation had the opportunity to engage with eight representatives from Rakuten Symphony, a company focused on providing a cloud-native platform for advanced mobile services that are rapid, cost-effective, and secure. The comprehensive discussion was led by various representatives across Rakuten’s end-to-end telecommunication solutions and services, including the Cloud Business Unit, Operations Support System Business Unit, 5G RAN Product Management, and the Service Delivery and Customer Success team. Delegates examined the company’s Open RAN innovations, their zero-footprint site deployment approach, and their vision for AI applications in network infrastructure. Through project and product case studies, the group examined their relevance to the Turkish context, with a focus on scalable and secure approaches to meeting telecommunications and infrastructure needs.
Exchanges Impact
This international exchange program with Türkiye offered space for productive dialogue and expertise sharing between Turkish ICT experts and key private actors of the American multinational technology and telecommunications industry. From discussions on industry visions of cloud-based platforms, Open RAN, and 5/6G technologies to presentations on efficient site management and deployment, their visit highlighted shared concerns that span the development pipeline as well as emerging innovations that prioritize cost and security.
Such conversations illuminated the significance of exchange, collaboration, and partnerships for the continued upgrading of critical digital infrastructure and advancements in the telecommunication industry broadly. Furthermore, the delegation’s cultural experiences provided a dual view of American society and the San Francisco Bay Area—both its historical roots and culture of innovation.
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.
https://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Sarina-Q.png10801080Alannah Crandallhttps://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GT_SF_logo_tagline_CMYK_original-1030x155.pngAlannah Crandall2025-08-01 08:15:002025-08-29 20:22:36Welcome to the Team, Sarina!
Meet Our Fall 2025 Intern!