Working in the Alumni Programme of the Networking by Diplomacy unit at the Federal Foreign Office has completely transformed my understanding of what diplomacy actually involves. Before taking on this role, I had a rather conventional view of diplomacy, seeing it as a field dominated by high-stake negotiations and formalities. I knew diplomats were highly skilled professionals but I didn't fully grasp the personal side of their work until I became part of this programme.

Through my daily interactions with diplomats from across the globe, I’ve learned that diplomacy isn’t just about navigating political landscapes; it’s about fostering human connections. I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals from many different countries, each one bringing their own cultural perspectives, life experiences and professional expertise with them. These interactions have shown me that diplomacy is as much about shared understanding and collaboration as it is about crafting policies and agreements. Every conversation I have with an alumnus or diplomat teaches me something new about the importance of empathy, patience and cross-cultural communication in international relations.
The most fulfilling aspect of my job is seeing the alumni network grow into something much bigger than I could have ever imagined. It’s inspiring to see alumni, who once connected during our events, continuing to support one another, exchange ideas and collaborate on projects long after they’ve left the programme. These enduring relationships often lead to meaningful partnerships that influence both their personal careers and the global landscape.

Ultimately, the work we do in the Alumni Programme emphasises that diplomacy isn’t about negotiating deals in isolation, it’s about people. It’s about creating spaces where individuals can connect, share and learn from each other, thus helping build a more cooperative and interconnected world.

Nick Quade