Manuel Pala, a 22-year-old Italian residing in Genoa, holds a Bachelor's degree in International and Diplomatic Relations and is currently in the final stages of completing his Master's degree in International Security. He is not only one of the co-founders of the Student Association Giovane Athena but also serves as its chairman. In recognition of his significant social and cultural contributions, Manuel was appointed as the Standard-bearer of the Republic by Italian President Sergio Mattarella in 2018. Furthermore, Manuel is the project manager and director of the Across the Sea initiative, which aims to establish a vast and inclusive network of youth associations throughout the Mediterranean region to address the challenges posed by climate change and its profound impact on communities and cities. In May of the past year, Manuel participated in the 9th Annual Meeting of UfM Energy Platforms on Climate Change. Moreover, in October 2023, he was extended an invitation by the EU Commission (DG NEAR) to attend the Planet on the Mend meeting held in Brussels. During this event, Manuel had the esteemed privilege of meeting His Excellency Major Georges Youssef, with whom he maintains ongoing communication with the intent of involving their respective municipalities in the Across the Sea network.