By Daniela García
I used to dream of the glamorous world of diplomacy — sharp suits, global affairs, and proudly representing my country. When the opportunity to take part in the “Politics in Action” module arrived, I was merely a girl with a dream, no clear direction, but a deep desire to one day be part of the Mexican Embassy.
When the time to apply for internships arrived, I sent my applications, hoping something would feel right. But my heart whispered, “try the embassy”. No open calls; no glowing “we’re hiring” banners. Just a directory and a dream. I wrote my first email to the Political Affairs Department- rejected. I tried again, this time the Cultural Department rejected again. My heart sank. But I wasn’t ready to give up.
So, with all the hope I could gather, I translated my CV and cover letter into Spanish and English. Perhaps, with a bit of faith, I emailed every single person on that staff directory. I told myself, “Someone kind must be out there. I’ll try until midnight”. And someone was. The Department of Consular Affairs welcomed me with open arms.
On the night of October 1st 2024, I carefully ironed my clothes and felt more nervous than ever. It was my first step into the “real world.” I called a taxi for the next day, terrified of being late. I knew the date would be special as it was also my dad’s birthday, and I carried him with me like a quiet good luck charm.
Of course, the glamorous start I had imagined turned into a ‘Comedy of Errors’. Stuck in traffic, I was desperate for a bathroom and ended up dashing into a car agency just to use their toilet. I jumped out of the cab a block early and sprinted to the embassy.
Yet, as I entered the Consular Affairs office, I felt like I belonged. It smelled like café de olla and freshly printed documents. I was welcomed by my supervisor, Consul Aída Gutiérrez, and a team of five coworkers who quickly became my mentors and friends. I learnt a variety of things: from printing passports, supporting Mexican citizens, writing letters to prisoners, and liaising with NGOs. Every-day, I uncovered new ways to serve my community. My people.
There were chaotic days too. Free Palestine protests, diplomats getting booed, and even switching from boots to heels that I kept in a plastic bag, dashing from the embassy to the ambassador’s residence. I met controversial public figures like Jeremy Corbyn (who had surprisingly, just discovered a love for poetry). I saw the Czech Foreign Minister get publicly protested — An event at UCL that landed us in The Guardian.
I also witnessed quieter moments that felt bigger than any headline. I met incredible women like Ms. Lynessa Griffith and Ms. Elisabeth Bowers, whose kindness and strength reminded me that sometimes, we don’t wait for opportunities. We create them. I learnt that good communication can open doors, change minds, and build bridges. These moments taught me more than any classroom ever could. I celebrated Día de Muertos with pan de muerto and hot chocolate, sitting beside colleagues who made me feel seen.
What’s a day inside the embassy really like?
Every Wednesday, I would wake up at 6:30 AM, eat breakfast, get ready, and walk to Egham Train Station to catch my train into central London. I would arrive at the embassy by 9:30 AM, register at reception and admire the grand entrance: portraits of every Mexican president lining the walls and a stunning spiral staircase leading up five stories. The consular area where I worked is on the ground floor, what I came to see as the brain of the embassy.
By the time I arrived, everyone would already be in motion. Felice and Griselda assisting clients; Ángel, Mariana, and Hakim managing technical matters, each of them in their element. They never failed to greet me with smiles. I’d settle in then go to my supervisor to ask how I could help that day. No two days were the same: sometimes I worked on electronic signatures or certificates; other times I helped Felice print passports using SUET and SIAC, or supported Griselda with organising visas.
Lunch (from 1pm to 2 pm) was my favourite part of the day. Not just to eat, but to talk with everyone, take a walk, and breathe outside away from our busy routine. There’s something magical about the behind the scenes at the embassy. The energy was always positive, full of mutual respect. I admired my colleagues deeply. They handled every challenge with patience and grace, even when dealing with clients who weren’t always honest about their immigration profiles.
I’ll never forget the first time I met the Ambassador. It was at an event she organised called Women in Diplomacy at the University of Westminster. She was powerful, eloquent, yet deeply human. One phrase that she said stuck with me. “Follow your heart when making decisions”. I have adopted this life philosophy.
Over time, seeing her around the embassy became a joy. Despite how decorated her accomplishments are, she’s incredibly warm, present, and kind. I remember when we surprised her with a cake on her birthday. The whole office lit up with laughter and joy.
There were also the events at the Ambassador’s residence just a few blocks from the embassy nearly every week. They were magical. Would get to reconnect with colleagues I did not see every day, like Fernando from the Cultural Affairs department (we are both from Guadalajara, an instant bond!). Some events were very formal, with ambassadors from around the world. Others were more casual: art exhibitions, lively talks, and even nights that ended in dancing until dawn. The decor, the music, the ambiance, everything showcased the beauty of Mexican culture.
I’ll never forget my final day. My team took me to Wahaca for a farewell lunch and refused to let me pay. We walked down Oxford Street and we saw King Charles. Life had a funny way of reminding me that I was exactly where I was meant to be.
Today, that same little girl who once dreamed of diplomacy has been asked to turn her research report into written testimony for the British Parliament speaking up about the lack of Latin American representation in the UK.
I still can’t believe it. I find myself pinching myself as I am writing this article. But beyond the sleepless nights and endless printing dilemmas, this experience taught me who I really am. I didn’t just find the diplomat I hoped to be. I found strength. I found purpose. I found a new family. I had the opportunity to give something back to a community that has given me so much. That little girl who once dreamed from afar could never have imagined that one day, life would paint her world in the colours of green, white, and red.
Though I have grown into a woman, I have never lost the inner child that still whispers in my heart and mind. To every young individual out there who is dreaming of the sharp suits, the world stage, and waving your country’s flag – hold onto that dream. Work for it. Fight for it. And above all, believe in it! I was once a girl looking up at the stars with nothing but a hopeful heart. But now, I wear the suits, walk the halls, and carry the weight of Mexico’s colours on my shoulders with pride. Sometimes, fairytale dreams really do come true!