It was an unusual Tuesday morning at the residence of the European Union (EU) Ambassador in Dar es Salaam. The sun had barely risen, but inside the Ambassador’s home, there was a buzz of anticipation. At precisely 7 a.m., the door opened to welcome Leticia Richard—dressed smartly in a cream blazer over dark pants and a blue shirt emblazoned with #GirlsTakeover. Her posture revealed a mixture of nerves and confidence. On this day, the 23-year-old Leticia was stepping into the shoes of Ms. Christine Grau, the EU Ambassador to Tanzania. For one day, Leticia would lead in her place.

The day began with a breakfast meeting between Leticia and Ambassador Grau. Leticia spoke with certainty about her focus for the day—advocating for girls’ rights, particularly reproductive rights and leadership. She shared with the Ambassador that her passion was deeply personal and rooted in her own life experiences.

“When I finished my Form Four studies, my grandmother pressured me to marry at 16. But I wanted more. I ran away, determined to continue my education,” Leticia revealed. Her determination led her to seek refuge with her mother and uncle, who supported her dreams. “Thanks to their support, I’m now a graduate of the University of Dar es Salaam. This is why I believe girls must have the agency to make decisions about their own lives.”

Leticia’s personal journey shaped her advocacy and inspired her to apply twice for the #GirlsTakeover initiative, organized by Plan International. Despite being unsuccessful the first time, she remained determined. “This initiative gives young girls a taste of leadership and mentorship, even if just for a day,” she explained. “It can open their eyes to new career paths and inspire their future aspirations.”

Her day as ambassador officially began at the EU Delegation office, where she was welcomed by Ambassador Grau. After a brief introduction to the office’s structure, Leticia’s first task was to send out a staff-wide reminder about a voluntary blood donation drive happening that day at Umoja House, home to the EU Delegation and other diplomatic missions including those of Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK.

Afterward, Leticia received a tour of the delegation, meeting staff across departments. Her curiosity naturally gravitated toward the gender components of the EU’s work in Tanzania. She eagerly explored how the EU integrates gender equality into key sectoral areas such as natural resources, economics, governance, infrastructure, and regional cooperation.

Fittingly, Leticia also had the chance to meet with two members of the EU Youth Sounding Board (YSB), a group of 25 young Tanzanians advising the EU on youth engagement and policy priorities. Fresh from their second quarterly meeting, where they provided feedback on youth inclusion since the YSB’s establishment in May, Leticia was keen to hear their insights and better understand their role within the EU’s agenda in Tanzania.

Throughout the day, Leticia attended meetings with heads of various sections, including natural resources, regional cooperation, infrastructure, and politics. She also visited Nafasi Art Space, one of the EU’s key partners in promoting arts and culture in Tanzania. Currently, the EU is funding a music competition through Nafasi aimed at promoting civic education. Leticia observed discussions about selecting the finalists and received a guided tour of the vibrant facility.

As the day drew to a close, Leticia reunited with Ambassador Grau to reflect on her time in the role. “It was a day filled with learning and inspiration,” Leticia said. “This experience showed me what leadership looks like in action—and it’s only made me more determined to continue advocating for girls’ rights.”

Leticia praised the EU staff for their openness and willingness to share information. “I loved learning about the EU’s work in Tanzania, especially on gender and girls’ rights. The staff were so approachable, and I hope to come back and follow up on some of the questions I asked.”

Looking ahead, Leticia plans to continue her advocacy in civic leadership for girls and sexual and reproductive rights, while also exploring opportunities for scholarships to further her education, particularly in public health.

Ambassador Grau, reflecting on the day, expressed her delight at having Leticia take over her post. “Leticia’s enthusiasm, curiosity, and passion for girls’ rights were truly inspiring. I was especially impressed by her thoughtful questions and her determination to make a difference,” she said. Ambassador Grau also shared information about scholarships offered by the EU through the Erasmus Mundus program, as well as opportunities from EU member states.

“As women, it’s important to have mentors and support systems. Even though we are often very good at what we do, self-doubt can creep in, and that’s often due to societal stereotypes and cultural perceptions about gender roles. I’ll be following your journey, Leticia, and you’re always welcome here at the EU Delegation,” Ambassador Grau told her.

About Girls Takeover
Girls Takeover is a global initiative by Plan International that gives girls and young women the chance to take up decision-making and leadership roles, allowing them to explore their potential and advocate for the rights they deserve. Through #GirlsTakeover, girls occupy spaces where they are rarely seen or heard, making it clear they have the right to be there without being silenced or ignored. Since its inception, over 6,200 girls have participated globally, using their voices to drive change on political, economic, and social levels.