Dear Delegates, Staff, Advisors and Friends,

It is my distinct honour and privilege to welcome you all to the first iteration of the St. Theresa of Lisieux Model United Nations (STLMUN) Conference. My name is Daniela Valenzuela Neto, I am currently a grade 12 student at STL and am delighted to serve, as your very first, STLMUN Secretary-General. With the current state of the world, Model United Nations gives students the opportunity to discuss and simulate the working environment of the United Nations with one common goal; to draft a resolution to solve a given crisis.

I joined STLMUN Chapter in grade 9, hoping to explore my passion for world issues. I won’t lie, at first, I was an extremely timid delegate. However, after taking the initiative to ask questions and learning from experienced delegates, I was able to step out of my comfort zone. It was the patience, support, guidance and encouragement of other members that have taught me to think critically and outside the box. They have allowed me to become the delegate I am today. Some of which I am honoured to have part of our Secretariat this year.

Model UN requires much more than just debate and diplomacy, but calls upon a certain resolve and passion. In the four years I have been part of STLMUN, our team has grown exponentially, and I can attest to the dedication and enthusiasm each member brings. It is with this, that the creation of this conference came to be. This conference will go down in history as the first ever to be hosted by St. Theresa of Lisieux CHS and I could not be more proud of the work and commitment each member has contributed. Each member that has been part of the planning process inspires me to not only become a better leader, but also a better, and more purposeful steward of excellence within our community.

The Secretariat and I have been relentlessly planning for months and can not wait to see the innovation and creativity delegates bring to each committee this June. From the ruthless GodFather to discussing the ramifications of the Metaverse, I can confidently say that although our conference is small, it will absolutely be one to remember.

Before closing off, I would like to thank our wonderful teacher advisor, Mr. Saggese, for his continuous support, and Mr. Dawson, for the guidance he has provided us during the planning of this event. Every great thing begins with an idea, and without the support of our teachers and school administration team, none of this would have been possible.

On behalf of the Secretariat and staff, it is my greatest pleasure to invite you, for the first time, to STLMUN 2022. We hope to see you in June. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach me via email at danielavalnet@gmail.com.

All the best,

Daniela Cristina Valenzuela Neto

Secretary-General | STLMUN 2022