Riverside City College’s Model UN team competed at the National Model United Nations Canada event November 19-25. This year’s team, one of the youngest college Model UN teams, received Distinguished Delegation, awards for Position Papers, and Peer recognition awards.
At the NMUN Canada event, delegates discussed global issues and celebrated the sesquicentennial: Happy 150th Birthday Canada – the true north strong and free! At the competition, students experienced cultural tours, such as exploration of Banff National Park, including a Johnston Canyon hike and a Banff Gondola ride, while discussing topics related to indigenous peoples and the environment. Held at the foot of Banff National Park, a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization world heritage site, the event was hosted by Concordia University of Edmonton.
Representing China, RCC students Gamaliel Perez and Samantha Smitley received recognition for their Position Paper and were honored with a Peer Award. Teammates Amy Maciel and Mina Ahmad, who represented Iran, also received an award for their Position Paper and a Peer Award. Rachel Lennox and Caleb Ragan also received a Peer Award. Other team members included Tori Cox, Luis Macias, Hector Ramos, Jasmin Brown, Skyler Fisher and Hamadri Ratnayake.
“What makes these awards impressive is the fact that eight of our team members are new to the MUN program and this was their first conference/competition,” Dariush Haghighat, Model UN advisor, said.
Model United Nations is an extra-curricular activity which allows students to role play as delegates to the United Nations and simulate UN committees. At the end, outstanding delegates in each committee are recognized and awards are presented for the best delegate and position paper. Each year, thousands of middle school, high school, and college students in the United States and around the world participate in Model United Nations events, which involve substantial researching, public speaking, debating, and writing skills, as well as critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership abilities.