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Mannat Bedi to Represent Detroit in 2022 Global Ties U.S. Emerging Leaders Program

February 24, 2022

Global Ties Detroit is excited to announce former Communications & Programming Intern Mannat Bedi has been selected to join the 2022 Global Ties U.S. Emerging Leaders Program. We are excited to have Detroit represented on the national stage.

Since 2011, the Emerging Leaders Program has built a pipeline of over 150 globally-minded young professionals and jump-started their careers in public diplomacy, international exchange, and foreign affairs. Participants engage in a year-long program where they have the opportunity to network with professionals in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors; strengthen professional skills and abilities; and build the relationships that will continue to support their professional growth.

Alumni of the Emerging Leaders Program have held positions across the United States with a focus on local, federal, and international government; international relations, and/or exchanges; and business. Many alumni continue to work within the Global Ties Network and implement exchange programs with our local and national program partners, and with the U.S. Department of State. They are directors and programmers within the Global Ties Network, working within all branches of the U.S. Government, and are Fulbright Scholars, Peace Corps Volunteers, and nonprofit and community leaders who are strengthening and advancing U.S. public diplomacy leadership. Alumni remain connected to the Global Ties U.S. Emerging Leaders Program, many helping to mentor and support future leaders.

Mannat is a pre-med student at Wayne State University studying Economics and Spanish. As part of the next generation of leaders, she shares the importance of citizen diplomacy in addressing global conflicts, uplifting youth, and empowering the city of Detroit:

How did you become interested in diplomacy and international exchange?

“All of my interests tie into international exchange and public diplomacy. As part of my pre-med track, I am working at Wayne State University’s School of Medicine, Division of Nicotine and Tobacco Research. Being part of this cutting-edge research has exposed me to the importance of advancing science and how research can touch individuals worldwide. Throughout my time in undergraduate school, I have also served on the Student Senate as the Director of Community Affairs, and, through the position, I’ve been able to partner with organizations in the city of Detroit and further the connection that students have with the city. Additionally, my Spanish courses have sparked my interest in language and culture.

I wanted to intern with Global Ties Detroit to explore more ways we can connect with the world to further connections and create long-lasting change. By joining Global Ties Detroit, I was able to learn more about a field that goes hand-in-hand with my studies and future career. I hope to one day practice medicine on the international stage - working abroad or working with the United Nations or World Health Organization.”

Why do you think it is important for youth to get involved in citizen diplomacy?

“It is so valuable to be knowledgeable about the field and get involved. We are the next generation of leaders and policymakers. Everything we do today will transcend into the future. If we start making these connections and opening ourselves up to other communities now, then our world will be better, tomorrow. As college students, we should learn about citizen diplomacy no matter what degree we are pursuing, because it matters in every facet of our lives.”

As Global Ties Detroit celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, why do you think Global Ties Detroit’s work and mission is important to the city of Detroit?

“By bringing different leaders from across the world to Detroit, Global Ties Detroit is putting Detroit on the map and highlighting organizations and people that are doing amazing work in the city and beyond. Creating these connections will only further Detroit’s significance on the global stage. People around the world know of New York and Los Angeles, but there is so much happening in Detroit and being able to share that and the stories of Detroiters is so important to the city’s future. It’ll be exciting to see what the next 50 years will bring for the organization and region.”

What would you say to someone who is hesitant about meeting a delegation or volunteering with Global Ties Detroit?

“Meeting people from around the world is a once in a lifetime opportunity for some, but if you volunteer with Global Ties Detroit, you get those opportunities all the time. I was able to participate in a few virtual exchanges, and it was so valuable. One that stands out to me was a delegation of women from Latin America who shared the ways they were trying to uplift the minority voice in politics and government. It was something that I could connect with and see happening in the U.S., and it provided the opportunity to reflect, problem solve, and find comradery in a global issue. Whether you are meeting with a group or hosting visitors, you will not regret taking the time to volunteer and expand your understanding of the world.”

As an emerging leader, what do you see as the most important global issue the world faces today?

“Preparedness. After the pandemic, it’s clear the world needs a more uniform and prepared approach to crises, whether they are health-related or not. It’s imperative. Climate change also immediately comes to mind. We as young leaders need to mitigate the outcomes of climate change, whether it's by helping to pass legislation, or working within our own communities to create environmentally friendly practices.”

What are you most looking forward to in the 2022 Global Ties U.S. Emerging Leaders Program?

“I’m so honored to be a part of it - to meet the other Emerging Leaders, work with the mentors, and learn more about the State Department and International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP). Many of the mentors have worked within the government on international affairs issues and policies, so connecting with those leaders is an amazing opportunity. I’m also excited to attend the 2022 Global Ties U.S. National Meeting and build connections while there. Overall, I’m most looking forward to growing professionally and learning about the range of career paths I can take within international exchange and public diplomacy.”

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