Programs
ShawMUN 2021
Delegates sought attainable solutions to real-world problems at ShawMUN, Shawnigan’s annual Model UN conference. Organized largely by students, ShawMUN 2021 brought together participants from across British Columbia and as far away as California and Costa Rica through a virtual platform.
“We are delighted that we are able to continue our annual ShawMUN Conference,” said Director-General Justin L. in the Opening Ceremonies. “This pandemic has placed obstacles that have made it more challenging to make this conference possible, but it also encouraged and pushed us to think critically and creatively. I encourage all of you to do the same today.”
This year’s conference challenged participants to research and debate positions on five different committees, including the Economic and Financial Committee (discussing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic), World Health Organization (discussing the accessibility and distribution of vaccines and mental health during pandemics), UN Women (discussing how to counter barriers to maternal health and care as well as engaging men and boys in gender equality), World Trade Organization (discussing a wide range of topics) and Historical Crisis Committee (discussing the circumstances that led to the American Revolution).
Keynote Speaker Hassan al Kontar, a Syrian refugee who spent seven months trapped in a Malaysian airport, delivered a message of hope and perseverance. He spoke movingly about his experiences and encouraged the students to look at their lives through a different lens, stating: “Enjoy your life. Make mistakes. Learn from them. Understand that it’s okay to fall, to rest, to catch your breath. And then when you are ready, stand up and walk again. Life is only about one option: to wake up every morning and start chasing your dream again – with a smile.”
As she declared the conference open, Secretary-General Ainsley F. said, “I hope that you all recognize the gravity of the opportunities that are presented to us in an increasingly globalized world.… I commend you delegates for your willingness and enthusiasm to continue and persevere. I hope you can all relish the opportunity and contribute as many fresh ideas as you can.”
Shawnigan Lake School is adhering to all COVID-19 guidelines released by the BC Ministries of Health and Education, including those regarding learning cohorts, physical distancing and mask-wearing when appropriate.
This year’s conference challenged participants to research and debate positions on five different committees, including the Economic and Financial Committee (discussing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic), World Health Organization (discussing the accessibility and distribution of vaccines and mental health during pandemics), UN Women (discussing how to counter barriers to maternal health and care as well as engaging men and boys in gender equality), World Trade Organization (discussing a wide range of topics) and Historical Crisis Committee (discussing the circumstances that led to the American Revolution).
Keynote Speaker Hassan al Kontar, a Syrian refugee who spent seven months trapped in a Malaysian airport, delivered a message of hope and perseverance. He spoke movingly about his experiences and encouraged the students to look at their lives through a different lens, stating: “Enjoy your life. Make mistakes. Learn from them. Understand that it’s okay to fall, to rest, to catch your breath. And then when you are ready, stand up and walk again. Life is only about one option: to wake up every morning and start chasing your dream again – with a smile.”
As she declared the conference open, Secretary-General Ainsley F. said, “I hope that you all recognize the gravity of the opportunities that are presented to us in an increasingly globalized world.… I commend you delegates for your willingness and enthusiasm to continue and persevere. I hope you can all relish the opportunity and contribute as many fresh ideas as you can.”
Shawnigan Lake School is adhering to all COVID-19 guidelines released by the BC Ministries of Health and Education, including those regarding learning cohorts, physical distancing and mask-wearing when appropriate.
We acknowledge with respect the Coast Salish Peoples on whose traditional lands and waterways we live, learn and play. We are grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful region, and we aspire to healthy and respectful relationships with those who have lived on and cared for these lands for millennia.
Shawnigan Lake School is an independent co-educational boarding school for ages 13 –18 on Canada’s beautiful West Coast. Our diverse, interdisciplinary and innovative programming helps shape the next generation of global leaders.
