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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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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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