Growing Arizona's Next Generation of Global Leaders

Forty-three high school students. Five days. One unforgettable introduction to diplomacy.

This June, 43 high school students from across Greater Phoenix came together at the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University for Global Ties Arizona's third annual Young Diplomats Summer Institute. As the program's largest cohort to date, students spent five immersive days exploring the intersection of technology, diplomacy, and global leadership while developing the skills needed to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.

Centered on this year's theme, Tech Diplomacy, the institute challenged students to examine how artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, energy infrastructure, digital communication, and international cooperation are reshaping global affairs. Through simulations, expert-led discussions, and collaborative problem-solving, participants strengthened their abilities in negotiation, public speaking, media literacy, critical thinking, and cross-cultural communication.

Led by Program Director Rachel Yanof, the week featured conversations with leaders from government, academia, industry, and the nonprofit sector who shared how diplomacy extends far beyond foreign policy—and increasingly influences the technologies and systems shaping our world.

Students heard from former U.S. diplomat Darla Jordan, MPA, on leadership and public service; Dr. Joshua Garland of Arizona State University's Center on Information and Narrative Complexity on misinformation in the digital age; and Dr. Anastasia Psomiadi of the SOTL Global Movement on the ethical implications of emerging technologies. They also engaged with leaders from Blink Public Policy, Salt River Project, and ASM to explore how policy, innovation, and industry intersect.

Throughout the week, students applied what they learned through diplomacy simulations that required them to negotiate competing interests, build consensus, and respond to evolving global challenges. The program concluded with a capstone simulation judged by community leaders before students celebrated their accomplishments alongside family, mentors, community partners, and fellow participants.

More Than a Summer Institute

While the Summer Institute is a five-day experience, it serves as the cornerstone of Global Ties Arizona's Young Diplomats initiative—a growing program designed to prepare Arizona's next generation of globally minded leaders.

Created for high school students across Greater Phoenix, Young Diplomats introduces participants to diplomacy, international affairs, civic leadership, and global careers while helping them develop the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. Through immersive learning experiences, meaningful mentorship, and direct engagement with professionals across industries, students gain a deeper understanding of how global issues shape local communities—and how they can play a role in addressing them.

The experience doesn't end when the institute concludes. Young Diplomats remain connected to Global Ties Arizona through year-round programs, volunteer opportunities, networking events, and international exchange experiences, allowing them to continue building relationships with global leaders and their peers while exploring future educational and career pathways.

As Arizona continues to strengthen its role in international trade, advanced manufacturing, technology, research, and global engagement, investing in young people with the knowledge, perspective, and confidence to lead across cultures has never been more important. Today, the Young Diplomats program continues to grow, equipping students to become thoughtful leaders, engaged citizens, and ambassadors for Arizona on the global stage.

Lasting Impact

Perhaps the greatest measure of the program's success is the confidence students leave with. Throughout the week, participants discover that diplomacy isn't reserved for elected officials or world leaders—it is built through curiosity, collaboration, empathy, and a willingness to engage with people from different backgrounds and perspectives.

By challenging students to think critically, communicate across cultures, and tackle complex global issues together, the Young Diplomats Summer Institute empowers participants with skills that will serve them throughout their education, careers, and communities. Each cohort strengthens a growing network of young leaders committed to building understanding, fostering collaboration, and creating positive change both locally and globally.

Thank You to Our Partners

The Young Diplomats Summer Institute is made possible through the generous support of organizations and community leaders who believe in investing in Arizona's future.

Thank you to the Arizona Community Foundation, The Burton Family Foundation, Workplace Resolutions, LLC, Salt River Project, and Peddler's Son for helping make this year's program possible.

We also extend our gratitude to the Thunderbird School of Global Management, our volunteer speakers and mentors, members of our Board of Directors, and the many community partners who dedicated their time, expertise, and encouragement throughout the week. Your investment in Arizona's youth is helping shape the next generation of global leaders.

Looking Ahead

The Young Diplomats Summer Institute is just one way Global Ties Arizona is preparing young people to lead in an increasingly interconnected world. Each year, the program brings together students from diverse backgrounds to explore global issues, build lifelong connections, and discover how they can make an impact in their communities and beyond.

Whether you're a student interested in joining a future cohort, a professional looking to mentor or share your expertise, or an organization committed to investing in Arizona's future, there are many ways to support the next generation of global leaders. Together, we can continue creating opportunities that inspire curiosity, strengthen cross-cultural understanding, and prepare young Arizonans to engage confidently with the world.