The British and Canadian embassies in Luxembourg have launched their 2026 ‘Diplomat for a Day’ competition, inviting female high school students aged
16 to 19 to step into the world of international diplomacy.
The joint initiative aims to inspire young women and girls to become future leaders and advocates for change. Winners will spend a day at the British and Canadian embassies in Luxembourg, shadowing senior diplomats, taking part in discussions, and learning first-hand how diplomacy works. The programme will also focus on the importance of equal rights and opportunities for women and girls.
According to the embassies, women and girls make up half of the world’s population but remain underrepresented in international diplomacy, politics and business—particularly those from disadvantaged or underrepresented backgrounds. Through initiatives like ‘Diplomat for a Day’, Canada and the United Kingdom say they are working to promote equal opportunities and more inclusive leadership worldwide.
Who can apply
The competition is open to young women and girls who:
- live in Luxembourg
- are enrolled in a Luxembourg high school
- are aged between 16 and 19, or turn 16 in 2026
- have a good command of English
Applicants must have parental or legal guardian consent. There is no entry fee.
How to enter
Participants are asked to answer the following question:
What positive change would you like to see to ensure equal rights for all women, including those facing additional barriers such as disability or low income, and how can you help make that change happen?
Applicants can respond in one of two ways:
Video: Record a video of up to three minutes, filmed in landscape format, and upload it via WeTransfer to email:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The file should be named: Last Name First Name – Diplomat for a Day 2026 Entry.
Essay: email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
In addition, all applicants must complete the ‘Diplomat for a Day 2026’ application form and send it to email:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Submissions must be in English, as all activities during the programme will be conducted in English.
Key dates
- Competition opens: 7 January 2026
- Application deadline: 8 February 2026 at 23:59 CET
- Winners notified: 23 February 2026
- Diplomat for a Day activities: 10 March 2026
Applicants are encouraged to read the full terms and conditions before submitting their entry.