Embassy Induction Seminar 2015 Review

Full house at Embassy Induction Seminar

It was a full house at the eighth and largest-ever Embassy Induction Seminar, as almost 220 new diplomats and their families from 100 nations packed into 11 Cavendish Square for the popular orientation day at the start of their postings. The day started with a briefing from Paul Connolly of the Foreign Office Protocol Directorate, as well as the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps the Ambassador of Kuwait Mr Khaled Al Duwaisan and HM Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps Alistair Harrison. Diplomats were also introduced to London’s many diplomatic networks and were given a security briefing from the Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection. There were a range of Living in London sessions designed to help them adapt to their host city as well as diplomacy workshops to introduce them to key contacts in their work. Meanwhile spouses were introduced to the Diplomatic Spouse Club of London and a range of spouse groups. The day ended with a jovial networking reception and prize draw, but with bags laden with contacts and information, everyone walked away a winner.

PHOTOS:PIERRE DE VILLIERS