Being part of the team working on our inaugural Notre Dame Model United Nations conference was both an honor and a transformative experience. As a member of the planning committee, I contributed to the development of this ambitious initiative, which aimed to introduce students to the complexities of diplomacy and global problem-solving. My primary role was to write the background guide for a committee focusing on the current crisis in Bangladesh, an endeavor that allowed me to combine rigorous research with a deep sense of responsibility.

Writing the background guide was a meticulous process. I delved into the multifaceted challenges facing Bangladesh, from climate change-induced displacement to economic instability and public health crises. Balancing factual depth with accessible language, I sought to equip delegates with the knowledge necessary to debate these issues thoughtfully and develop innovative solutions. This task not only strengthened my research and writing skills but also deepened my understanding of the interconnectedness of global challenges.

On the day of the conference, it was incredibly fulfilling to see delegates engage with the guide I had written. Observing their debates and resolutions affirmed the importance of providing a solid foundation for informed discussions. It was also inspiring to witness the enthusiasm and dedication of my peers, who brought energy and insight to every committee session.

This experience reinforced my passion for fostering global awareness and collaboration. It was a privilege to contribute to an event that empowered young people to tackle pressing international issues, aligning seamlessly with my own aspirations in advocacy and public policy. Working on the Notre Dame Model UN conference was not only an opportunity to grow as a leader and writer but also a chance to inspire others to embrace the responsibility of global citizenship.

Attending Harvard Model United Nations in both 2023 and 2024 has been a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of diplomacy and global advocacy. In 2023, I represented the Czech Republic in SOCHUM, focusing on the Uyghur refugee crisis in China. As my first Model UN conference, it introduced me to parliamentary procedure, international collaboration, and the complexity of addressing human rights issues on a global scale. By 2024, I returned as Tanzania’s delegate in UNICEF, where I explored topics like children’s literacy, book censorship, and global education policy.

This second conference sparked a growing passion for advocating children’s rights and protecting access to knowledge, connecting deeply with my interest in educational equity. Both experiences honed my research and public speaking skills, inspired meaningful collaboration with delegates worldwide, and reinforced my commitment to addressing global challenges through thoughtful, informed action. These experiences align perfectly with the interdisciplinary goals of the Global Scholars program and have inspired me to pursue a career that integrates advocacy, education, and public policy.

Attending Harvard Model United Nations in both 2023 and 2024 has been a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of diplomacy and global advocacy. In 2023, I represented the Czech Republic in SOCHUM, focusing on the Uyghur refugee crisis in China. As my first Model UN conference, it introduced me to parliamentary procedure, international collaboration, and the complexity of addressing human rights issues on a global scale. By 2024, I returned as Tanzania’s delegate in UNICEF, where I explored topics like children’s literacy, book censorship, and global education policy.

Participating in SASMUN 2023 was an incredibly rewarding experience, as I represented the United Kingdom in SOCHUM to discuss the role of AI in global technologies and development. This conference challenged me to delve into the ethical implications and potential benefits of emerging technologies while collaborating with peers to draft comprehensive resolutions. I was honored to receive an award for my diplomacy and performance, which reflected the effort and preparation I dedicated to this topic. The experience further solidified my interest in international relations and the intersection of technology and policy.

Although I was eagerly anticipating SASMUN 2024, where I was scheduled to play the role of Caesar Augustus following the death of Julius Caesar, I was unable to attend as I prioritized caring for my grandmother. While disappointed, I used this as an opportunity to reflect on the value of leadership and resilience by writing a creative piece that encapsulated my thoughts and feelings about missing the event. This piece, inspired by the historical role I would have portrayed, allowed me to channel my passion for classical studies and diplomacy into a new format.