Ignite: Switzerland’s Post

Thriled to share that I have been selected by the US embassy in Lisbon to represent Portugal as a young diplomat at the prestigious Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship (BFTF). This program was initiated in 2006 to commemorate the 300th anniversity of birth of Benjamin Franklin an iconic American statesman and diplomat, whose career, interests, and studies took him across the Atlantic Ocean, bringing better understanding between Americans and Europeans. The honor of participating on behalf of Portugal this year allows me to engage firsthand in diplomacy and international affairs, contributing to strengthening bonds between European and American cultures, values, and relations over the course of one month. As a European representative, I have the opportunity to meet and collaborate with 53 young European and American ambassadors. The Fellowship aims to not only enhance the representatives' understanding of U.S. foreign policy priorities, such as youth engagement, support for democracy and civil society, and economic prosperity but it also allows them to contribute to these important discussions from a European and from their national perspective. This year's fellowship, hosted by Purdue Universityin West Lafayette, Indiana, and Georgetown University in Washington D.C., combines rigorous coursework with enriching community service activities. During our seminars, we delve into topics such as democratic practices, conflict resolution, problem-solving, critical thinking, and youth leadership while meeting U.S. politicians, judges, journalists, and other professionals. This comprehensive curriculum is designed to equip us with the skills and knowledge needed to foster positive global change and mutual transatlantic understanding between our cultures. In the previous weeks we have been exploring the work of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of state government and we had the privilege of discussing recent legislation with District 26 Representative Chris Campbell at the Indiana House of Representatives in Indianapolis. We also visited the Boiler Kids Camp at Purdue University to introduce parts of our country and culture to kindergarten and elementary school children. Fostering transatlantic relations is crucial for strengthening ties between Europe and the United States, promoting mutual understanding and collaboration in addressing global challenges. I am so honored to be here on behalf of my country, working to strengthen the transatlantic bond between Portugal and the United States and looking forward to the upcoming accomplishments and days in Washington, D.C. 🇺🇸 🇵🇹 🇪🇺 #Diplomacy #InternationalAffairs #BFTF #USGermanyRelations #YouthEngagement #ForeignPolicy #Leadership #CommunityService #CulturalExchange #TransatlanticRelations

In the latest episode of Experiences of International Education I speak with Daniel Palm, Founder and Managing Director, at Catalina Global, and former Associate Vice President of International Affairs at the University of Arizona. Daniel tells us how his journey in #intled started as an undergraduate student when he went to China to study Mandarin, ending up staying for 5 years. This experience eventually enabled him to support US universities seeking to develop academic partnerships in China, and subsequently TNE operations in different regions. Daniel tells us how he led the development of the University of Arizona’s micro-campus in Kazakhstan, working closely with the Ministry of Higher Education in the country to navigate regulatory challenges and find ways to support access through scholarships for students with disabilities. Daniel also tells us about the way the micro-campus model works, his interest in the quality assurance of #TNE, and the challenges of navigating different stakeholders' interests when developing international partnerships. He shares how his passion for international education and developing partnerships is ultimately rooted in his view of citizen diplomacy and the power of this softer diplomacy in shaping international relations… and the memorable conversations with people he encountered traveling worldwide, many of whom he continues to engage with both personally and professionally. 'a micro campus is is essentially a campus within a campus... it wasn't a full blown campus with its own independent buildings, independent accreditation and everything, but really took the dual degree models just a little higher up the chain...' 'I got an international education because I was kind of a citizen diplomat... I see it as not just higher education for educational purposes, even though that's incredibly important....It's also about that bigger vision. How is what we're doing impacting the world order' '.. you've suddenly got yourself in a situation where you're just trying to offer degree and offer transformational opportunities for students, and suddenly you're in a political environment, and suddenly you're in a heavily business environment..,and those kind of three pieces coming together, I found to be some of the most challenging to navigate' Thanks Daniel for sharing your experiences and insights. https://lnkd.in/eqRQvPwK Next week we will look at different experiences of supporting the international student experience, either through benchmarking or through assuring the quality of recruitment agents, with conversations with Guy Perring at Etio, and Martijn van de Veen at ICEF

🌍 Reflecting on an Inspiring Summer of Learning and Growth 🇬🇪🇪🇺🇺🇸 This summer has been incredibly enriching, marked by two transformative experiences that have broadened my perspective and deepened my expertise in international politics and security. 🎓 Manfred Wörner Seminar 🇩🇪 Outsanding, most prestigous and top ranked academic event I ever joined, where I engaged with high profile experts and fellow young leaders from US and EU on pressing issues related to European security and transatlantic relations. The seminar provided a unique platform to discuss challenges and opportunities in the current geopolitical landscape, especially from the German perspective, particularly focusing on the importance of NATO and Euro-Atlantic integration. This experience has significantly enhanced my understanding of security dynamics and reaffirmed my commitment to contributing to Georgia’s strategic development. 🎓 WEASA (Warsaw Euro-Atlantic Summer Academy) 🇵🇱 Participating in WEASA was my goal in the recent couple if years. This summer I make it! WEASA offered a deep dive into the complexities of the digital transformation and its impact on governance and society, with a particular focus on the Eastern Partnership and Western Balkans region. The sessions, led by esteemed academics and practitioners, were both insightful and thought-provoking. 🚀 Both of these experiences have not only expanded my knowledge but also allowed me to connect with a network of passionate professionals dedicated to fostering positive change in their respective fields. As I move forward, I am excited to apply the insights gained from these programs to my work in public diplomacy and international relations, continuing to drive initiatives that support Georgia’s integration into the Euro-Atlantic community. #InternationalRelations #PublicDiplomacy #SecurityStudies #DigitalTransformation #EuroAtlanticIntegration #ManfredWornerSeminar #WEASA

On this #EuropeDay, I am contemplating my journey through European Studies and International Relations, where my passion for the intricate workings of Europe truly blossomed. Studying European Studies was a transformative experience. I delved into the foundational treaties of Europe, explored the Schuman Declaration, and immersed myself in the history and evolving political landscape of the EU. The integration of nations, the absence of borders and customs, and the core values enshrined in the Lisbon Treaty and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights became more than theoretical concepts—they embodied the very essence of progress and unity. Before arriving in Europe, my studies in International Relations sparked a curiosity about Europe's political model and regional dynamics. Witnessing firsthand the success of integration, where diverse cultures converge under a shared vision, has been nothing short of inspiring. I am grateful to Sapienza Università di Roma for granting me the opportunity to explore Europe's rich tapestry of cultures and values. This journey has not only expanded my academic horizons but has also enriched my understanding of global diplomacy and cooperation. Let's celebrate Europe Day by reaffirming our commitment to unity, peace, and shared values. Here's to a continent that continues to lead by example in embracing diversity and fostering collaboration. Happy Europe Day to all! Photo: This photo captures the vibrant mix of backgrounds and cultures shaping European policies. People from three continents gather, showcasing the diversity and unity that define Europe's inclusive spirit. Together, we're shaping a future where global perspectives drive positive change. Sofia Zanin , Christian Igbeghe, Natnael Michael, Mumbi Mwelwa, Julia. #EuropeDay #EuropeanUnion #Unity #Diversity #Peace European Parliament European Commission European Generation

Are you a Student Studying International Relations? Do You Plan to Work with Your Degree after Graduation? "Yes" Or "No" and Why We would like to know what you intend to do with your degree. It's not uncommon to hear students studying courses, even professional courses, talk about not being interested in using their degree after school either because they didn't even like the course from the beginning or they don't know what to use it to do With degrees like "International Relations" "History and International Studies" "International Studies and Diplomacy" and even "Diplomatic Studies". Many people working in other industries including entertainment claim to have studied these courses while in school. At HEDDAS, We would like to know what you intend to do with your degree after graduation? #insightswementor

How can we measure the impact of #InternationalExchange programs like the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP)? It's "more of an art than a science," reflects U.S. Foreign Service Officer Eric Catalfamo. "Opinions evolve, professional networks grow and adapt, and the positive ripple effect of a single exchange experience can multiply exponentially over time." Eric shares how meeting an #IVLP #ExchangeAlumni in Papua New Guinea 20+ years ago shaped his #PublicDiplomacy career and his belief in why #ExchangeMatters. Said Eric: "Spanning the vast ocean between Papua New Guinea and the United States, these truly were global ties, forged by people-to-people #CitizenDiplomacy, that deepened mutual understanding and strengthened our bilateral relationship." His story: https://gties.us/4gv56Qi

EVENT Thursday 11 April 6pm | Join Nick Bisley, Bec Strating, Kyoko Hatakeyama and Alessio Patalano for the launch of the new La Trobe Asia Brief: Enhancing global and regional maritime order. To register to attend in Melbourne or online visit https://lnkd.in/gnCCeDG2 Oceans are an important resource for every country and are essential for travel and trade, but there are several critical issues facing maritime order in Asia. A lack of a shared vision, differing interpretations of maritime order, and cooperation over security issues all create friction for use of shared waterways across Asia, which makes fair and equitable access vital. How can Asian states and allies strengthen dialogue, interactions, and coordination to maximise the impact of their efforts in upholding regional and maritime order? School of Humanities and Social Sciences, La Trobe University Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade UK in Australia

🌍 What is Model United Nations (MUN)? Model United Nations (MUN) is an academic simulation of the United Nations where students represent countries and engage in debates on global issues—ranging from international security to climate change. But MUN is much more than just diplomacy! It’s an invaluable experience for students across all career paths. Whether you're pursuing business, law, science, or engineering, MUN helps develop critical skills such as: ✅ Public speaking ✅ Negotiation and teamwork ✅ Problem-solving ✅ Research and critical thinking MUN equips students to think globally, act collaboratively, and communicate effectively—skills that are vital in today’s interconnected world. Plus, it’s a unique way to gain insight into global challenges while building lifelong networks. 💡 Interested in joining? If you're at the University of Manchester, come join Manchester MUN Society (ManMUN)! We hold weekly training sessions to help you sharpen these essential skills. 🎉 Don’t miss out on our upcoming conference from November 8-10—an amazing opportunity to put your skills into action! 📅 Here’s how: 1. Sign up through our registration partners at MyMUN: https://lnkd.in/dEudpGUJ 2. Look through the exciting committees and topics, and choose the one that excites you the most 3. Select a country you want to represent 4. Pay the delegate fees (Hurry, our early bird tickets are going fast!) And it’s that simple! ✅ Looking forward to seeing many of you there! #MUN #Leadership #GlobalAwareness #SkillsDevelopment #ManMUN #Manchester

Our students recently engaged in the Model United Nations (MUN) simulation in Rome, improving their diplomatic skills and deepening their understanding of global issues. From negotiating complex scenarios to fostering cross-cultural understanding, their journey is both enlightening and inspiring. Explore their transformative experience in the full article linked below #UNYP #ModelUN #Diplomacy https://lnkd.in/g4jKP3RX

Check out the below opportunities