The Zig Zag provides a platform that highlights the experiences and research of womxn in the foreign policy sector at large, addressing specific career concerns rarely discussed online. The Zig Zag recognizes that each individual’s’ journey is unique, rarely linear. Womxn in foreign policy sectors face differing barriers and opportunities, joys and surprises.
The blog’s mission is intersectional in nature, ensuring that it provides all readers, including but not limited to People of Colour, LGBTQIA+, people with disability, and people from underrepresented classes, with actionable advice on their career questions. We adopt a storytelling approach that illuminates and emboldens marginalized voices and allows for personable and relatable content. It is intended to be easy to read, functioning as a friendly and knowledgeable career coach.
In this piece, PhD candidate Maria Pilar Lorenzo shares her advice on how to get into academia.
In this piece, Allyson Castillo shares how she became involved in activism from a very young age and why it’s important that young people take action to make change possible.
Lara Brett attended the 2022 Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) as a volunteer delegate. In this piece, she shares what she has learnt.
Tamara Espineira has lived a varied and unique career leading to the EU, she takes this opportunity to share her journey with those interested with getting into EU politics - and how you don’t have to go through the ‘blue book’ to be successful.
Gender and representation in Security Politics is a conversation way overdue. Silje Abrahamsen takes on the task here and enlightens us all with her perspective.
In this piece, Audrey shares her experience of working for a subnational entity, Quebec, and how this could help your foreign policy career.
Have you ever wondered if a leadership role is for you? Whether there is space for you and if you would fit? Marie Kapretz has gone through the same thoughts and came to the realisation, women belong in leadership roles, diversity belongs in leadership roles; she hopes to show you that you belong through this article.
In this piece, Kritanjali writes about the struggles that female politicians in India face and the importance of a more equal representation of women in politics.
Read Janine’s compelling argument for a more intersectional and holistic approach to migration and her top tips on how we can bring about change in this field.
Thinking about doing an unpaid internship? Read Manasa’s tips on how to decide whether an unpaid internship is right for you.
In this piece, Kizzann shares her journey of becoming an anti-human trafficking advocate and her advice on how to learn more about this issue.
Read Niousha’s review of “The Useless Sex” to find out how Fallaci’s writings could impact you.
As a young activist and academic, Sofía Pérez has had to think about the kind of feminist she wants to be. Read about her experiences here.
Annelies shares her personal story of being a Third Culture Kid, and how this makes you perfect for a career in Foreign Policy.
In this piece, Kanchi Mathur discusses how Alexandra Kollontai’s writings have inspired her feminism and how they could inspire yours too!
During these times remote internships are becoming more and more normal, a new way of life bound to continue… Kathy shares her experiences and why they aren’t as scary as they may seem!
Lara Brett really benefited from volunteering. Read her top tips on how volunteering can help you too!
Moving your career from National to International can seem daunting, luckily Maria has done it for us - and wants to share what she has learnt through her journey.
Through interviews with established and emerging disabled female leaders, Molly highlights the contributions of disabled women to foreign policy and shares their career advice.
Studying languages and working abroad helped led Lara to work in foreign policy. Find out how it can help you broaden your horizons!
Our CEO Lucie is constantly asked to write reference letters for people. Here are her five top tips on how to ask for a great reference.
Interested in human rights but worried you need a law degree to get started? Read Anusha’s top picks of human rights careers that don’t require a legal background!
Read about Lauren’s experiences of graduating during a lockdown and her top tips for looking after your mental health in uncertain times.
Although in a lockdown Jennifer understands the importance of getting involved with University societies - or even starting your own!
Not everyone picks the right major for them first. In fact, it is more common than you think! Follow Patricia’s journey as she details why she changed her major and gives advice to those struggling!
Looking to get published in the field of International Relations? Read Olivia Compton’s before you do anything else!
Read Saarah Ahmed’s account of how COVID-19 has affected not only her career but also her health.
Mahek gives an insiders view on applying for the Civil Service. She lets us know answers to questions she’d like her younger self to know! An informative piece for those trying to get into the Civil Service.
Whether you’re just starting out or senior professional, you should read Amanda Lee’s tips on applying for foreign policy jobs!