Students step up at VMUN

1,600 participants debate global affairs
Eighteen Shawnigan Model UN team delegates joined 1,600 students from around the world for the 18th annual session of the Vancouver Model United Nations, January 25-27.

The largest high school student-organized Model United Nations conference in North America, Vancouver Model United Nations (VMUN) is one of Canada's premier educational simulations. The three-day event simulates world diplomacy – complete with a midnight crisis session – and inspires delegates to become more aware, more educated, and more thoughtful global citizens in an increasingly complex world.

Students are assigned a nation to represent in an engaging debate on pressing issues, including global health, environment, security, finance, economies, human rights, and development. This year, VMUN had 20 committees for the students to choose from, including General Assemblies, mid-size specialized agencies, smaller regional bodies, and crisis committees. Opening ceremonies included a keynote session with Dr. Richard Heinzl, founder of Doctors Without Borders/Medecins Sans Frontieres Canada, the Nobel Peace Prize-winning organization that has inspired a movement among medical professionals to help the world’s most vulnerable populations.

Social studies teacher and Model UN instructor Paul Klassen said of the Shawnigan delegation: "Isaac L. stepped up to the plate to volunteer his time as the Speaker of the House of Commons, a role that required extensive experience and came with the responsibly of helping to manage and organize over 100 participating delegates. Congratulations are also due to Ainsley F. (SOCHUM), who won the gavel (Best Delegate) in her committee. Special thanks also go to Imran K., who served as the head delegate for the Shawnigan group."
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