Programs
ShawMUN North 2017
A weekend of positivity, hope and passion
This past weekend, Shawnigan hosted 281 delegates from eleven different schools for the inaugural ShawMUN North.
ShawMUN North is a new one-day Model United Nations conference geared specifically towards beginner delegates, with a focus on the UN's Sustainable Development goals.
The ShawMUN North delegates were fortunate to have Sir Dennis Edney as Keynote Speaker and were witness to a thought-provoking speech on “The rule of law in a time of fear.” Mr. Edney is a Canadian lawyer who provided the defence for Omar Khadr. In addition to receiving the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia's Human Rights Medal in 2009, Mr. Edney has also been named Queen’s Counsel for his exceptional contribution to the legal profession.
At the helm of ShawMun North were Secretary-General Halle C. and Director-General Bonita C., supported by their secretariat team.
Secretary-General Halle C. gave a ringing opening speech in which she addressed the importance of taking a stand and embracing the opportunity offered by the Model UN experience: “Delegates, you are the reason we are gathered here today. You are the future of the world, and just by being here, you have made a difference. Now more than ever we need active citizens that stand up when no one else will, that question our politicians, and that have something to say. In today’s world, it is so important for events just like this to happen. We need educated, bright new voices to take the world’s stage and stand up for what we believe. It is time we take an active role in the world we are inheriting, and prove to the generations before us that we intend to support our global community.”
In her closing speech, Director-General Bonita C. touched upon her own positive experience of joining Model UN at Shawnigan, an active step she took to address her fear of public speaking. She recognized the senior students who, during her first year in the club, provided continual support and encouraged her to keep raising her placards. She shared how she has conquered her fear of public speaking, embraced a habit of trying new things, and developed a better understanding of the world around her.
You can view more photos from this event on our Facebook page.
You can view more photos from this event on our Facebook page.
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.
