In the fast-paced world of international relations, the voices that matter most are those prepared to listen, research and speak up. At SJS, a dedicated group of Senior School students is doing more than just studying the future—they are actively rehearsing it.
Model United Nations (MUN) is a Senior School co-curricular that immerses students in United Nations simulations through international conferences. Their most recent circuit began January 23–25 in downtown Vancouver, where SJS delegates tackled diverse global issues, from Indigenous human rights to the ethics of genome editing.
Leadership Beyond the Resumé
For many, the initial draw to MUN is the impressive line it adds to a university application. However, for those who stay involved, the motivation quickly evolves into something more profound.
“I’m not going to lie,” admits Eva, one of the team’s co-captains. “I originally joined MUN in Grade 9 to buffer my university applications. When I went to my first conference in 2023, however, I found I really enjoyed the process. Now, I’ve been on the team for four years.”
The draw? A combination of intellectual rigor and high-level networking. “The process of researching and learning about new topics is one of the best parts. You meet a lot of enterprising people from so many different places,” Eva explains.
A Masterclass in Student Agency
What makes the SJS Model UN team particularly impressive is its commitment to being student-led. While teacher chaperones like Mr. Au provide support, the heavy lifting—the strategy, the preparation and the mentorship—is handled by the students themselves.
Eva and her co-captain Iona have taken it upon themselves to transform a small interest group into prepared diplomats. They manage the team’s digital presence, run weekly mock simulations and ensure that every younger student feels ready to step onto the floor.
“Iona and I really wanted to expand the team this year and make sure everybody was prepared before going to these conferences,” Eva said. “We try to make our sessions as beginner-friendly as possible… how to help them research, how to speak, and to give them a peak at what the event itself will be like.”
This peer-to-peer mentorship is the heartbeat of the program, with Grade 12 leaders supporting younger peers on how to navigate complex geopolitical lenses, whether they are representing the interests of the United States, China or Russia.
Stepping into Leadership Roles
The connection to the IB Programme’s Approaches to Learning (ATL) is everywhere. Through MUN, students sharpen their public speaking and research skills. Beyond the delegate experience, SJS students are also stepping into professional leadership roles. Iona, Grade 12, and team member Purab, Grade 11, served as moderators (Chairs) during the Vancouver conference, facilitating debate and managing parliamentary procedure for the committees.
Eva is taking her leadership a step further by helping to organize the Richmond Model United Nations conference this June at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, a role that she had to apply and interview for.
What’s Next for our Diplomats?
With their first conference wrapped up, the team is looking toward the Canadian International Model United Nations and the upcoming Richmond conference.
The future of diplomacy is in good hands, being built from the ground up by students who aren’t afraid to take the floor.
