Welcome to the last edition of ST Foundation Talks
Welcome to the final edition of STFoundation Talks, a series dedicated to highlighting the people behind the Foundation’s activities around the world. Today, we meet Giovanna Bottani, Chief Operating Officer of the ST Foundation, whose work includes managing international partnerships, strategic operations, and global program coordination.
Can you tell us a little about yourself? Where are you from, and what’s your background?
I was born in Milan, but I had the privilege of spending part of my youth in countries such as Peru, Thailand and Indonesia. Growing up between different cultures gave me a deep curiosity about the world and a strong sensitivity toward diversity and inclusion.
What brought you to the STFoundation? Was there a specific moment or experience that inspired you to join?
My journey is closely connected to my experience at ST, where I started in 2003 as a Corporate Social Responsibility Specialist. Through that role, I discovered the ST Foundation and immediately understood that I wanted to dedicate myself to projects combining international collaboration and strong social impact. I officially joined the Foundation in January 2006.
What does your role as the Chief Operating Officer involve? What does a typical day look like?
My role is highly transversal and international. I oversee the Foundation’s operational activities across multiple countries, ensuring alignment between strategy, programs, governance and day-to-day execution. I manage relationships with international organizations such as the International Telecommunication Union, support the Board in strategic planning and decision-making, supervise the development and implementation of projects, and help coordinate key areas such as operations, communication, partnerships and compliance.
What’s the most rewarding part of your work with the STFoundation?
There are two dimensions that I find particularly rewarding.
The first is related to the development of international and strategic partnerships, especially our collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union, which I personally followed from its early stages and helped develop over time. But the second dimension is definitely the human one. 
I still remember being in Senegal during the launch of our Introduction to Computer Basics course for Visually Impaired people (ICB4VI). At one point during the training, participants realized they could independently access information, use a computer, and navigate the internet just like a sighted person. Suddenly, the room exploded into a collective “wow.” It felt as if they had freed themselves from something invisible. In moments like that, you truly understand the real meaning of digital inclusion.
How do you see the Foundation’s work evolving internationally in the coming years?
I believe the Foundation must continue acting as a “sentinel” of the digital divide. Digital exclusion is constantly evolving and, if we want to remain relevant, we must anticipate new needs and adapt our activities accordingly. A clear example is artificial intelligence. Until a few years ago, nobody would have associated AI with the concept of digital divide. Today, however, not understanding or being unable to use these technologies increasingly risks excluding people from access to information, opportunities, and even parts of everyday life.
What motivates you to keep going, even during difficult moments?
I genuinely believe that helping others gives meaning to what we do and, in many ways, also to who we are. Even after many years, what continues to motivate me is the feeling that, even in a small way, we can contribute to creating opportunities, dignity and hope for someone else.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing?
I love traveling, especially to seaside destinations, because the sea truly helps me recharge. I also enjoy studying and continuously learning new things. In 2023, for example, I became a certified life coach out of curiosity and personal interest. Finally, I deeply care about animals and actively support organizations dedicated to animal welfare and animal rights, because I believe we should always give a voice to those who cannot speak for themselves.