Colombian college student Gabriela Alonso Jaramillo explains her country’s politics to the apolitical

In Colombia, Gabriela Alonso Jaramillo is an anomaly. In a country where polarization is rising and youth voter turnout is low, she stands out as the only one in her group of friends who cares about local and national politics. The 23-year-old public affairs and political science double major at the University of the Andes in Bogotá was alarmed when a classmate in her political science major told Alonso that she aspires to be apolitical. "I, as someone who studies the same major, wondered how she could say that," Alonso said.

Alonso's interest in politics was further fueled when she worked on a local political campaign in 2023. She observed how candidates courted (or didn't) youth voters, and her friend's apolitical aspirations made more sense. Politics felt inaccessible to many young people, Alonso realized, and most politicians didn't understand how to reach them in genuine ways.

Determined to change this, Alonso started a TikTok account called Política para apolíticos (Politics for the Apolitical) where she explains Colombian politics in a clear, straightforward way. Her goal is to help viewers understand how government and power works in the country. Alonso's videos are educational explainers that range from breaking down the day's major stories to spelling out how institutions like the Supreme Court and Congress work.

"The first thing they tell us [in my public affairs major] is that you are going to govern for the people and you must understand that people don't understand exactly what you understand," she said. "You have to find a way to translate for that person so they can understand what you are doing."

Today, Alonso has nearly 300,000 followers on TikTok and 58,000 on Instagram. Her content has resonated with many young Colombians who feel disconnected from the political process. By simplifying complex topics and using relatable examples, Alonso has created a space where politics can be approached without the overwhelming jargon and partisanship that often deter young people.

Alonso's mission extends beyond her social media presence. She believes that understanding politics is essential for making informed decisions and participating in civic life. In a country where polarization is on the rise, her efforts to bridge the gap between politicians and the youth are becoming increasingly important.

As Alonso continues to grow her following, she remains committed to her mission of demystifying politics for the apolitical. Her story highlights the power of communication and the need for more voices like hers to help young people navigate the complex world of politics and engage meaningfully in their society.

In the broader context, the rise of creators like Alonso underscores a shift in how people consume news, particularly among younger demographics. With traditional media facing challenges in reaching younger audiences, influencers and creators are becoming a major source of news, especially for those under 30. Alonso's success on platforms like TikTok and Instagram shows that there is a demand for accessible, engaging content that can help people understand political issues in their own language.

In Colombia, Gabriela Alonso Jaramillo's journey as an educator and advocate for political engagement serves as a beacon of hope. Her dedication to breaking down politics for the apolitical not only empowers her followers but also contributes to a more informed and engaged youth, which is crucial for the future of the country.