Aug 12 2025

Empowering the future: How young professionals drive innovation at NCIA

On International Youth Day, the NATO Communications and Information Agency (NCIA) celebrates the skills, creativity, and determination that young professionals bring to the organization’s mission. While young professionals are taking their first career steps, they are also delivering results that shape NCIA’s capability delivery to NATO and Allies.

From cybersecurity to business operations and strategic engagements, they are delivering fresh innovative solutions, challenging established approaches and adapting to the rapidly evolving demands of international defence.

In celebration of International Youth Day, we asked our young professionals to share their challenges, unique insights and advice for aspiring talent.

What advice would you give to other young people looking to build a career in international security?

Lucinda Simon-Pla, 25, Software Development Engineer

My biggest advice is to embrace opportunities, even when self-doubt arises. It’s natural to compare yourself to others, but it’s important to focus on your own path and grow rather than getting caught up in comparisons. Working in international security offers incredible opportunities to collaborate with talented and passionate people from diverse backgrounds, and every experience will help you learn and develop valuable skills. Be curious, embrace challenges, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. That’s often where the best learning happens. Don’t be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and keep learning.

Have you faced any challenges starting out in this field, and how did you overcome them?

Gonzalo PereyraOchoa, 23, Business Planning and Reporting intern

Starting my internship in the Business Planning and Execution Management team, I quickly realized how complex and interconnected the organization truly is. Navigating the planning and reporting of Agency-wide projects and services can be overwhelming at first, especially given the scale and variety of the operations. However, what made the biggest difference was the patient and supportive environment created by my colleagues. Their guidance helped me not only to better understand the processes and systems in place but also to see how my contributions fit into NCIA’s larger mission. Over time, this gave me the confidence to take initiative and approach challenges with a proactive mindset.

What unique perspective or strength do you think young professionals bring to organizations like NCIA?

Fanny Clouvel, 24, Financial Planning and Analysis Intern

I believe young professionals bring a unique combination of fresh eyes, drive, and enthusiasm that act as catalysts for process improvement within NCIA. In my role within the Financial Planning and Analysis team, I see how revitalizing already established workflows is essential to ensure accurate forecasting, cost control, and effective reporting to leadership. Young professionals’ adaptability, shaped by growing up in a highly interconnected world, allows them to navigate diverse cultures, technologies, and rapidly evolving environments with ease. This skill, combined with their eagerness to challenge traditional methods, encourages continuous improvement that strengthens NCIA's ability to provide the advanced capabilities needed to support NATO’s complex and dynamic missions around the world.

Why do you think it is important for NATO and NCIA to invest in young talent?

Efe Gurbuz, 23, Content Production Intern

Investing in young people early also helps build a strong pipeline of professionals who truly understand NATO’s goals and values, and who can grow into roles where they make meaningful contributions. In my work, I see firsthand how crucial it is for NCIA to invest in young professionals. The way in which information is shared and consumed continues to transform, and young talent brings innovative ideas and new ways of communicating NATO’s mission effectively to diverse audiences. This ensures that the organization remains relevant and connected to global trends, not just relying on traditional approaches. Ultimately, it’s about cultivating agility and creativity to keep navigate the complexities of today’s international environment.

On this International Youth Day, NCIA celebrates the contributions of its young professionals, their fresh perspectives, the skills they build, and the determination they bring in shaping a more secure future.

Kickstart your NATO career at NCIA. Check our Young Professionals page for more information.