Model UN Winners

Jennifer Morrison and Thaya Kovaleva

On the 15th of August, we headed to Canberra to compete in a National Model United Nations competition going against schools from across the country. The debates were held in old Parliament House and resembled real UN conferences, with issues that are relevant in the world today. Across the two days of debate, we formed alliances with other countries collaborating on 6 different resolutions to create a more peaceful world. 

We represented Japan, which meant thoroughly researching the country's history and political climate as well as its stance on current world crises. A lot of our speeches had to be improvised, relying on the research we had done. While it was demanding trying to brainstorm world peace in one night, it was an especially rewarding experience as we met likeminded people and Australia's potential future politicians.

On Saturday night we had an official dinner with a guest speaker, Ms. Lorraine Finlay, who is the Australian Human Rights Commissioner. Her speech was eye opening in reminding us how fortunate Australia is in its systems when compared to the challenges faced by other countries, as well the importance of advocacy for a better future. 

Following the finish of the debate on Sunday, we were honoured to win the Totenhofer Peace Prize. This prize is the most prestigious award of the competition, being given to the team that is the most successful advancing world peace. 

On behalf of the entire BSC community, congratulations Jennifer and Thaya on your amazing result in Canberra!