Sofia Levorato – Director of Communications

Sofia currently works as a project manager for national and international research projects at the University of Padua. She has gained experience in communications, having worked at the European Parliament and with NGOs in Brussels.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and a Master’s degree in European Studies from the University of Padua. During her studies, she took part in several Erasmus exchanges, living in Portugal and Belgium. Sofia is a native Italian speaker and is fluent in English and Portuguese. She is skilled in social research and communication for NGOs, with areas of interest including EU policies, innovation, gender equality, and art.

Fun fact: human music database, especially indie rock and pop.

Lorenzo Buscema – Deputy Director of Communications

Originally from Italy, Lorenzo holds a Bachelor’s degree in European Studies and a Master’s degree in International Relations, both from the University of Milan.

Passionate about geopolitics, digital communication, and with several multilateral experiences, including roles at ALDA in Brussels, and the EUI and Europe Direct in Florence, Lorenzo is committed to supporting the EST network, increasing online and offline engagement, and actively cooperating with the Communications team.

Fun fact: a travel and LEGO addict.

Emma Salata – Newsletter & Podcast Coordinator

Emma graduated in Political Science and holds a Short Specialization Degree in Social Media, Public Opinion, and Political and Electoral Marketing, both from the University of Padua. She has a strong interest in digital communication, politics, and public discourse, with a particular focus on strategic and institutional communication.

She has developed experience in communication-related activities within social and international environments, working on content creation, social media management, and communication support. She enjoys experimenting with graphic design and visual communication, and is particularly interested in podcasts, which she sees as a powerful and emerging tool for public information, political storytelling, and shaping opinions.

Fun fact: she has a soft spot for pop culture in communication.

Bérénice Beslay – Social Media Coordinator

Bérénice is a French researcher who has lived in Spain, Belgium, Italy, and the Netherlands. She is currently pursuing an MA in Transnational Governance at the European University Institute (EUI) in Florence, after completing an MSc in International Politics and a BA in International Studies with a focus on Africa at Leiden University. Her main areas of interest include Euro-African relations, security, and the rule of law.

As a Social Media Coordinator for the EST, she hopes to create engaging and accessible content that showcases varied perspectives on global affairs, strengthens dialogue across the EST community, and expands the think tank’s reach across platforms.

Fun fact: never lived in France yet dreams daily of the perfect pain au chocolat.

Sara Ambrosini – Social Media Coordinator

Sara Ambrosini

Francesco Gandini – Website Coordinator

A graduate in International Relations with a specialisation in political communication, Francesco has experience in electoral campaigns focusing on digital strategy and speechwriting, complemented by a Master’s degree in data-driven political marketing.

He possesses strong knowledge of European policies and institutional dynamics. Trilingual in Italian, English, and Spanish, he is interested in bringing communication and policy analysis skills to corporate institutional affairs.

Fun fact: among some friends he’s known as Gandhi.

Alessia Salzano – Communications Officer for Organized Crime Prevention and Early Warning Research Desks

Alessia Salzano graduated in International Relations and Diplomacy from the University of Bologna, Italy. Through international academic and professional experiences across NGOs, UN volunteering, and campaign support, she developed a strong interest in strategic communication and public engagement. She believes communication is not just about clear messaging, but a tool to raise awareness, shape narratives, and inspire action.

As Communications Officer for the Organised Crime Prevention and Early Warning Research Desks, she supports research teams by translating complex analyses into accessible content and increasing the visibility of policy-relevant work. Motivated by European and international affairs, she uses creativity, coordination, and collaboration to enhance outreach and foster engagement within EST’s international, cross-functional environment.

Fun fact: she finds joy in reading, good coffee, and rock playlists.