Welcome to the Future of Politics: A Sneak Peek at the New Wave of Young Vice Presidents
Well, folks! Grab your party hats because the political landscape is getting a youthful makeover, and it looks like the babysitting budget just got a serious boost. Yes, younger leaders are stepping into influential roles across the globe, proving that politics isn’t just for the seasoned—and perhaps slightly jaded—old guard. Who needs experience when you’ve got a fresh social media presence, right?
1. Sara Duterte (The Philippines)
Sara Dutertes, also known as Inday Sara—because who doesn’t prefer a catchy nickname?—has officially become the 15th Vice President of the Philippines at just 44. She’s not just maneuvering through the political scene; she’s strutting through it wearing her dad’s shoes as the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte. She kicked off her career in law but made the transition into politics like a seasoned pro, serving as Vice Mayor and then Mayor of Davao City. With 36 awards for good governance under her belt, she’s proving that sometimes, you really can take out the trash and make it shine. Who knew local government could be so sparkly?
2. Gibran Rakabuming Raka (Indonesia)
Now, if you thought walking into a room as the youngest Vice President of Indonesia at the age of 37 was déjà vu, think again! Gibran Rakabuming Raka made headlines for just that. Fresh off his stint as Mayor of Surakarta, he is about to take on the vice presidency while maintaining the epic goal of becoming an entrepreneur like his father. Isn’t it adorable when politicians have aspirations outside of politics? Just remember, Gibran: running a country isn’t quite like running a lemonade stand. But hey, with a bit of luck and maybe a sugar rush, he might just blend the two!
3. Francia Márquez (Colombia)
Next up is Francia Márquez, Colombia’s powerhouse—literally! Sworn in as Vice President at the young age of 40, she radiates a mix of badassery and altruism rarely seen in politics. Francia isn’t just about office hours; she’s a dedicated environmental and human rights activist who kicked illegal mining off ancestral lands like a pro. Boasting a Goldman Environmental Prize, she’s probably the only VP who could simultaneously protect the planet and deliver a harrowing speech on it. #Goals, anyone?
4. Jose Gabriel Carrizo (Panama)
At just 36, Jose Gabriel Carrizo strutted into the role of Panama’s Vice President like he owned the place. He’s a legal eagle who swapped courtroom dramas for political matches. This Democratic Revolutionary Party member partnered up with President Cortizo and catapulted into the spotlight. But wait—he stepped down in July 2024, leaving the position vacant. What’s next? A game of musical chairs, perhaps? Let’s hope he doesn’t lose his seat when the music stops!
5. Mansour bin Zayed (United Arab Emirates)
Now here’s someone with a royal touch—Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, the UAE’s Vice President. Born in 1970, he’s not just a pretty face; he’s got a degree in International Relations. He’s been slicking his way up the political ladder since 2004, and somehow manages to combine his royal duties with political prowess without breaking a sweat. A deputy who knows international relations? Someone pass the diplomatic cookies!
6. Veronica Abad Rojas (Ecuador)
And then we have Veronica Abad Rojas, a musical prodigy turned politician overseeing Ecuador’s vice presidency. She assumed her role in 2023, promising musical diplomacy and three master’s degrees to boot! Before all the politicking, she was a businesswoman. Not to be dramatic, but can we just take a moment to appreciate someone who can juggle a family of musicians and three degrees while entering the political ring? That’s a talent show we’d definitely watch!
7. Mary Munive (Costa Rica)
Last but certainly not least, we have Mary Munive; a Vice President and an expert in medicine. Officially the second in command of Costa Rica since April 2022, she’s living proof that the medical field and politics can truly mix! Specializing in Family and Community Medicine, she’s also doubling up as the Minister of Health—because why not save lives and run a country simultaneously? Someone grab the woman a cape!
This assemblage of youthful enthusiasm signifies a remarkable shift in global governance. So, if you think politics is all suit and tie, think again! It’s now about names who can Twitter better than they can govern—pardon my skepticism. But let’s hope these young leaders wield their energy wisely and perhaps, just perhaps, give politics a much-needed glow-up. After all, if you’re going to **be** in politics, you might as well make it fab!
