Entries are now open for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s Ambassador for a Day 2026 competition in Lisbon. The GOV.UK notice invites eligible students to spend a working day shadowing the UK Ambassador to Portugal as part of the Embassy’s International Women’s Day programme.
The placement offers first-hand exposure to a diplomatic mission’s routine work, from external engagements to internal briefings. According to the FCDO, winners will be hosted at the British Embassy in Lisbon and will join conversations linked to International Women’s Day. The shadowing day is scheduled for 13 March 2026.
Eligibility is clearly defined. Applicants must be female students registered at a secondary school in Portugal, enrolled in Years 10 to 12, and available to take part in a full day of activities at the Embassy on 13 March 2026.
Applications are submitted via an online form on GOV.UK that asks two prompts: why the applicant should be selected as Ambassador for a Day, and which British or Portuguese woman inspires them and how her example motivates action. Submissions may be provided in writing or as a video. Applicants are asked to review the published terms and conditions before applying.
The 2026 theme is Women Who Inspire. Creativity is an explicit judging criterion, and the FCDO states that a diverse jury will be convened to ensure a fair and inclusive assessment process.
Key dates are fixed. The competition opens on 9 December 2025 and closes on 12 January 2026. The FCDO expects to contact the winner between 2 and 13 February 2026, announce the result online on 8 March 2026, and host the Embassy day on 13 March 2026. Questions can be sent to afadlisbon@fcdo.gov.uk up to 12 January 2026.
The FCDO situates the initiative within wider representation goals, noting the continued underrepresentation of women and girls in diplomacy, politics and business. The 2026 edition also coincides with the 640th anniversary of the 1386 Treaty of Windsor, a touchstone of UK–Portugal relations. The Embassy highlights historical figures such as Philippa of Lancaster to frame the discussion.
Analysis: For schools and careers advisers in Portugal, this is a structured opportunity to connect students-particularly those considering public service, international relations or languages-with practical exposure to Embassy work. For UK–Portugal relations, the programme functions as public diplomacy timed to International Women’s Day, engaging younger audiences while profiling women’s leadership.