When Allegra Cuomo’s (UK, Academies ‘23 & YA ’25) AFS journey began in 2023 as an AFS Global STEM Academies scholarship winner, she couldn’t have imagined how developing skills in social innovation and sustainability would transform her life. During her time with AFS in India, Allegra discovered that creating global change requires more than just an interest in social impact; it requires multinational collaboration and cultural empathy. Her cultural immersion in India, combined with the experience of living with a host family, proved that the most effective solutions to global issues are built on diverse perspectives and real-world connections.
While in India, Allegra discovered a new fascination for technology and the potential for positive impact it could have on her community. She recognized that if she wanted to make the world a better place through technology, it needed to start with a deeper understanding of its ethical implications. As generative AI began to reshape daily lives, Allegra identified a critical need for responsible governance and ethical development, leading her to ask how we can ensure that emerging technologies are used as a force for positive change.
This mission reached a turning point at the 2025 AFS Youth Assembly, where Allegra met fellow Global STEM alumna, Daria Gjonbalaj (Kosovo, Accelerators ‘23 & YA ‘25). Allegra and Daria immediately connected through their shared interests in the governance of emerging technologies and the ethics of AI, and how they could turn this into a tangible force for positive impact. By combining Daria’s expertise in computer science with Allegra’s focus on the philosophy of technology, they created a powerful partnership to tackle the multifaceted issues of modern tech. Together, they launched the InnoEthics Podcast, which now has seven episodes discussing a range of topics, including demystifying emerging technologies like cybersecurity and privacy, promoting digital literacy for responsible AI usage, and empowering a new generation of changemakers by bridging the gap between technical innovation and ethical responsibility.
“The amazing range of experiences I have been able to undertake through AFS and their continual support has been immense and has helped shape me as a confident and capable global citizen passionate about making positive change,” shares Allegra about her AFS experience.
Today, Allegra views her AFS journey as the foundation of the confidence she has since built to be an active global citizen. The AFS Global STEM alumni network has provided both Allegra and Daria with a place to grow their practical skills to create impact and meet inspiring individuals with a passion for changing the world.
Allegra and Daria continue to engage with AFS as volunteer alumni mentors and ambassadors for the AFS Youth Assembly while continuing to host the InnoEthics Podcast. In their words, they built this podcast together “to emphasise the importance of diverse perspectives and collaborative action when it comes to tackling the biggest topics of these times.”
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