The experience is part of a national initiative designed to introduce young Italians to diplomacy, international relations and the public service overseas.

Cesaretti, 23, is from Lucca and is currently studying Management of Healthcare Institutions at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Rome.

She chose to undertake her internship at the Consulate to gain first-hand insight into diplomatic work and the services provided to Italian citizens abroad as she considers a future career within international organisations.

The placement will also allow her to see how management and organisational skills can be applied in an institutional and diplomatic setting.

Mezzavilla, 24, is from Belluno and is completing a master’s degree in international and Diplomatic Sciences in Forlì, a campus of the University of Bologna.

With a strong interest in diplomacy and global affairs, he decided to complement his academic studies with practical experience, working closely with the Italian community in Queensland and the Northern Territory.

The internship offers an important opportunity to turn theory into everyday practice and to better understand the role of Italian institutions abroad.

For many young Italians, the MAECI-CRUI program represents a key step in both personal and professional development.

Living and working within a diplomatic mission helps participants build transferable skills, strengthen their sense of civic responsibility and gain an international outlook that is increasingly essential in today’s job market.

At the same time, these experiences help renew and reinforce the connection between Italy and its younger generations, giving them tangible tools to imagine an open, informed and global professional future.

The arrival of Cesaretti and Mezzavilla at the Italian Consulate in Brisbane is therefore not only an important learning opportunity for the two students, but also a positive sign of Italy’s continued investment in young talent, quality training and a form of diplomacy that remains focused on people and Italian communities abroad.