Amapaense will be inaugurated in the diplomat career as third secretary Gabriel Sousa Machado dos Santos, aged 26, passed the diplomat training course at the Rio Branco Institute (IRBr), in Brasília. The achievement has strong symbolism: it took four attempts to achieve his childhood dream. A public servant and a Law graduate from the Federal University of Amapá (Unifap), Gabriel was also approved by the Brazilian Bar Association (OAB). Even so, he chose to pursue diplomacy and dedicated himself completely to the competition. Download the g1 app to see AP news in real time and for free. Preparation required years of intense study. The competition is considered one of the most difficult in the country and demands total dedication. Gabriel divided his routine between long hours of reading and breaks to maintain balance. "I started trying in 2023, but I hadn't studied almost anything. I started to really dedicate myself that year. I took the 2024 and 2025 exams, always getting close to passing the 1st phase, and I managed to pass now in 2026. It was a difficult preparation, with many ups and downs: moments when I studied for many hours, others when I studied little, and even days when I barely picked up my notebook. But I always tried to remain consistent", he said. Entry into the career requires passing the Diplomat Career Admission Competition (CACD), which has two stages: objective test and written tests. It took four years of studies until approval Rede Amazônica/Reproduction READ MORE: Libras interpreter from Amapá takes songs from São João to social media: ‘our cultural identity’ Iepa Pharmacy reopens in Macapá with an offer of accessible natural remedies With the approval, Gabriel becomes third secretary. The career continues with intense training and promotions: second secretary, first secretary, counselor, second class minister and, at the top, first class minister (ambassador). Gabriel states that he has always believed in approval, but still experiences the ecstasy of achievement. He says he feels joy and anticipation for the challenges of the new phase. "I'm very happy to have fulfilled this personal dream, a childhood dream. There was a lot of effort and support from my family, my co-workers and friends. Every victory is collective, never individual", he celebrated. Diplomats represent Brazil in international negotiations, monitor foreign policy, help Brazilians abroad and promote the country's culture. Gabriel is the first person from Amapá to enter diplomacy. He will take office in Brasília along with 59 others approved. Gabriel has a law degree from Unifap Amazon Network/Reproduction Rio Branco Institute The Rio Branco Institute is Brazil's diplomatic school, recognized as one of the best in the world. Founded in 1945, it is the oldest government school in the country and the third oldest diplomatic training school on the planet. It is an agency linked to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Rio Branco Institute was created in 1945 Visit Brasília/Reproduction See the latest news schedule from g1 Amapá VIDEOS with news from Amapá: