Diplomacy and international relations have always been more than just a passing interest for me; they are my lifelong passion. This passion was ignited by the remarkable experiences of my father, a dedicated diplomat, whose illustrious career left an indelible mark on me. In this blog post, I will share how my father’s inspiring journey and my own unique experiences have fueled my passion for diplomacy, leading me to embark on my own path in this captivating field.
A Diplomatic Legacy
My father’s career as a diplomat was nothing short of extraordinary. He served as the Ambassador of Cameroon to Liberia and as a Consular Attaché to Nigeria. His life was a tapestry of international interactions, diplomatic negotiations, and cultural exchanges. I vividly recall watching him interact with statesmen, dignitaries, and foreign diplomats. These experiences were my window into the world of diplomacy, where every conversation held the promise of building bridges between nations.
The Liberian Civil War
My father’s diplomatic career was tragically cut short by the devastating Liberian Civil War of 1990. Despite the turmoil and challenges he faced during those times, his impact on fostering peace and diplomacy remained undeniable. He was not only a diplomat but also a hero of peace, and his stories of perseverance in the face of adversity left an indomitable mark on my heart.
The Spark of My Diplomatic Journey
As I grew older and pursued my master’s degree in human rights law, my desire to follow in my father’s footsteps became even stronger. It was during this time that I received a unique opportunity that would set the stage for my own diplomatic journey.
A Trip to Equatorial Guinea
I was elected by the rectorate of the prestigious Catholic University of Central Africa to travel to Equatorial Guinea. The purpose of this mission was to negotiate how students could travel back and forth between Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea for study abroad trips. This trip marked my first real exposure to the world of diplomacy.
Meeting with High-ranking Officials
In Equatorial Guinea, I had the honor of meeting with the Archbishop of Equatorial Guinea and the Pope’s representative. Despite my proficiency in both French and English, I found myself in need of a Spanish interpreter, as neither of them understood my languages. The challenge of communication only added to the intrigue of the experience.
National Television Interview
After the successful negotiations, I was interviewed by local journalists, and the interview was aired on national television. It was an incredible feeling to see the impact of diplomacy firsthand and to share the story of our successful mission with a wider audience.
A Glimpse into the World of Diplomacy
This trip to Equatorial Guinea was my very first adventure into diplomacy and international relations. It was an eye-opening experience that allowed me to witness the power of diplomatic negotiations and the significance of building international relationships. It was the turning point that solidified my determination to pursue a career in diplomacy.
Conclusion
My passion for diplomacy and international relations has deep roots, nurtured by the experiences and stories of my father’s diplomatic career. My journey to Equatorial Guinea provided me with a real taste of what diplomacy entails, and it only served to strengthen my resolve to follow in my father’s footsteps. With each step I take in my diplomatic pursuits, I am reminded of the tactful negotiator and hero of peace that my father is, and I am inspired to carry on his legacy in the world of diplomacy.
