Thinh Tran
Staff Writer
Earlier this February, six Broward College students, five Broward Central students, and one Broward South student showcased their skills at the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) International Model United Nations (WIMUN) competition in New York. Despite the daunting challenges of competing on a global scale, our students rose to the occasion with dedication and perseverance, bringing home an impressive five top-level international awards. Artem Burtsev, Juan Galindo, Steve Montes, and Thinh Tran distinguished themselves by winning the Best Diplomacy and Position Paper awards. Furthermore, with our other students, Liany Diaz and Christina Cacoulidis, Broward College’s team also achieved the Best Delegation award.
Throughout the competition, held at the Intercontinental Hotel near New York Times Square, our students grappled with pressing real-world issues, namely in The First Committee of the General Assembly on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS) and The International Labour Organization on Decent Work in the Platform Economy. In commenting on the WIMUN trip, Steve Montes said, “The atmosphere at the conference was diplomatic and productive, with almost everyone in attendance actively contributing to finding a solution.” Montes believes that the positive and collaborative approach taken by all attendees helped to create a conducive environment for meaningful discussions and effective decision-making.
Outside of their competitions, students immersed themselves in the diverse cultures of New York City. From Juniors Cheesecake to the infamous 99-cent pizza, our delegation tried a variety of Chinese, Italian, and even Ukrainian foods, embracing the true essence of the WIMUN experience. They also visited iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the United Nation’s Headquarters.
Model United Nations would like to thank advisor Professor Kari Hebert for her valuable guidance and support in preparing for and overseeing this trip. Throughout her time at Broward College, she has aided the team in research and practice for various competitions throughout the United States. Furthermore, they’d like to commend thestudents for their exceptional achievements, bringing immense pride to Broward College.
Model United Nations is a learning platform at the college level where students take on the roles of diplomats representing various nations or organizations. Through intensive research, debate, and negotiation, students dive into complex global issues, mirroring the procedures and dynamics of the United Nations. Also, getting into the depth of negotiating complex matters with diplomacy, they showcase remarkable confidence under pressure, ultimately earning recognition. Model United Nations fostering critical thinking, diplomatic skills, and an understanding of international relations, preparing students for careers in diplomacy, politics, law, and other fields requiring global competence.
Suppose you’d like to join the MUN team and embark on exciting journeys filled with thrilling competitions and unique opportunities. From local tournaments to national and international events, the MUN team offers an unparalleled experience in summering into the world of diplomacy. Imagine representing BC at incredible conferences and trips. The opportunity is here; contact Professor Kari Hebert at khebert@broward.edu and join us on this epic journey to victory.
