My Growth Through Model United Nations

As a shy boy with a hidden love for global issues, I shook out of my skin whenever I thought about public speaking. One day, my history teacher, Ms. Heller, noticed my ability to represent perspectives beyond my own through our global issues assignment, and approached me to join Model UN (MUN). After an internal debate, I decided to give it a shot. 

Representing Peru at the Institut Montana Zugerberg MUN 2023, the walk leading to the podium was one mixed with shakiness, fright, and excitement. I spoke my first words, “Honorable Chair, Distinguished Delegates,”  unconscious of my diction or body language. I spoke naturally. Before I knew it, I heard Madam President asking me, “How does the Delegate yield the remainder of their time?” My opening speech had finished, and a booming applause followed. It was my first speech in front of more than a class-sized audience. And the second I returned to my seat, I wanted to go back up again. Nine Model UN conferences, three international recognitions, and after chairing the WHO and NATO, from representing the Syrian Arab Republic to Peru, the decision to join MUN seems like a no-brainer. MUN has enabled me to speak at multiple conferences, including the Villars Summit 2024 and Youth Forum Switzerland about emerging technologies. 

Speaking with industry professionals has challenged me to approach problem solving by considering many stakeholders. For instance, I previously explored the challenge of patients lacking access to life-saving medical devices by looking at only the patient and the pharmaceutical company. Upon discussions with physicians at the Youth Forum Switzerland, I now understand the complex relationships between governments, pharmaceutical companies, patients, and doctors, that determine whether patients access these medical devices.

When people compliment how well I speak, I look toward the shy Ishan three years ago, deathly afraid of public speaking. Model UN reminds me of the power of a first in reaching new heights once covered by my own limitations. I hope to continue to push my own boundaries, make courageous choices and reach new heights in college and beyond.