Written by: Anthony Davis-Youngblood, Intern
Where I Began
Anthony Davis-Youngblood completed his B.A. in Political Science from California State University San Marcos and his Master’s from San Diego State University.
After graduating college, I didn’t know where to turn in terms of how to jumpstart my career in public service. I attended the On the Road Again event with the San Diego Diplomacy Council. I immediately met with retired foreign diplomats and many important figures in the local non-profit space. From that night in 2022, I knew I needed to apply for an internship with the SDDC. The skills, insights, and networks I developed there have contributed to my success in this new role, demonstrating the profound impact of local diplomatic engagement on global diplomacy endeavors.
What I Did
At the SDDC, I was immersed in a vibrant environment where diplomacy was not just discussed but actively practiced. Engaging directly with international visitors, drafting critical communications, and participating in the orchestration of programs such as the Binational Youth Summit were among the responsibilities that honed my diplomatic acumen. These experiences cultivated my understanding of cross-cultural communication, a cornerstone of effective diplomacy, and provided me with hands-on experience in navigating the complexities of international relations.
One of the most enriching aspects of my time with SDDC was the opportunity to learn about the election processes in Korea from a native perspective. This interaction underscored the importance of listening and understanding in diplomacy, a lesson immensely relevant to my current role at the State Department, where articulating and advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives necessitates a deep appreciation of diverse global perspectives.
Furthermore, drafting letters to consulates and embassies for the Binational Youth Summit and assisting with grant applications, like the World Design Capital project, allowed me to develop a keen eye for detail and an understanding of the nuances involved in diplomatic communications. These skills directly apply to my duties in the State Department, where drafting and editing policy-related documents are routine tasks.
The practical experience gained from organizing events and promoting initiatives like the Global Youth Leadership Program (GYLP) has equipped me with the organizational and promotional skills needed to support events and conferences and shared responsibility in the Department of State. Seeing projects through from conceptualization to execution is invaluable in a fast-paced, policy-driven environment.
Moreover, my involvement in the SDDC provided me with a rich network of professionals and peers passionate about international affairs. This community has been an enduring source of support and inspiration as I navigate my internship, reinforcing the significance of building and maintaining relationships in the field of diplomacy.
45th SDDC Anniversary event
Prepared for the Future
The transition from the SDDC to the Department of State has been a natural progression of my aspirations and capabilities in public diplomacy. The foundational experiences provided by the SDDC have contributed to my success in securing this prestigious internship and equipped me with the skills and mindset necessary to contribute effectively to the U.S. foreign policy objectives. As I continue my journey, I am reminded of the interconnectedness of local and global diplomacy efforts and the pivotal role that grassroots initiatives like those fostered by the SDDC play in shaping the next generation of global leaders.
As a past executive director of this Council, I am THRILLED for you Anthony! This wonderful work goes on with you. Nice, Cath