Sixteen ISKL students embarked on an exciting journey to Manila from November 6 – 10 for the 2024 Interscholastic Association of Southeast Asian Schools (IASAS) Model United Nations (MUN). Embracing ISKL’s School-Wide Learning Results (SLRs), our students demonstrated remarkable reason and creativity, rising to global challenges through their unwavering dedication, collaboration, and passionate debate. Congratulations to our Panthers for embodying ISKL’s proud tradition of excellence in MUN!

A special note goes to the following students who received awards. They were:

Head Chair: Sianna L. (‘25)
Best Speaker/s: Hyren G. (‘25), Jaewon K. (‘26), Alex B. (‘27), Dev C. (‘25), and Ezequiel CE (‘25)
Best Delegate/s: Shelby S. (‘25), Mihir B. (‘25), and Jordan K. (‘26)
Most Diplomatic: Zhao Yang K. (‘25)

Here, we catch up with some delegates, Hyren G. (’25) and Sianna L. (’25), and discover the memorable and challenging moments, what keeps them motivated, and their advice for first-time MUN-ers.

Here are their stories:

Hyren G. (‘25)

What was the most memorable moment or challenge you experienced during IASAS MUN, and how did it shape your perspective on global issues or diplomacy?

The most memorable moment was when I represented the United States on the Security Council. The debate topic about solving the Myanmar Civil War was very divisive, as many countries in the committee had directly opposing viewpoints that seemed irreconcilable. When I wanted to pass a clause in the resolution, the delegate of China threatened to veto it, which essentially meant that the clause would be thrown out. Never having faced such direct and blunt opposition before, we initiated a P5 Nation caucus (a private meeting between the most politically powerful nations in the UN: Russia, China, UK, USA, and France), where we tried to make compromises and set aside our differences. This was to no avail, and China ended up sticking to its stance of opposing the clause.

This taught me that although diplomacy may be presented as an eloquent and well-mannered art of dialogue, sometimes a level of assertiveness must be upheld. Each country has its “red line”; if it is crossed, it is entirely in their hands to oppose such a resolution.

What do you enjoy most about being part of MUN, and what keeps you motivated to participate in conferences like these?

More than just an academic endeavor, MUN is the best opportunity for a High School student to network and make friendships that can last a lifetime and transcend cultures. I’ve made friends with people with similar world outlooks and perspectives, connected with people I usually would have never met, and fostered even deeper relations with my fellow ISKL students.

Within our ISKL MUN program, the camaraderie formed between every year’s IASAS MUN team will always stick with me, as our group’s supportive and inclusive nature allows us to be all we are. Seeing students of all different grade levels laugh, interact, and even complain brings me immense pride as the Secretary-General, as it shows our otherwise diverse school’s great unity and togetherness. I will always be encouraged and motivated to participate in MUN conferences because of the friendships I make, which is a truly invaluable experience.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone attending MUN for the first time?

Be confident and always speak up. MUN is a public speaking and social activity; constant engagement with other delegates in the room, being well-versed in the topic at hand, and having self-advocacy are important skill sets that are required. Training is the only way to get better! By throwing yourself out there, you will learn by experience and see your progress improve. The MUN community is supportive, collaborative, and friendly at ISKL. There are many people to support your journey, from the Secretariat to our MUN teacher advisors – everyone will be willing to lend a helping hand if you have any questions or are unsure!

Sianna L.(‘25)

What was the most memorable moment or challenge you experienced during IASAS MUN, and how did it shape your perspective on global issues or diplomacy?

Over the last couple of years, I’ve learned that regardless of the dynamics within the committee room — be it an objection to unfriendly amendments, a passionate right of replies, or snarky points of information — everyone’s passion for global politics ultimately unites us. This passion transcends the pursuit of any possible award.

Being a chair, one particularly memorable moment was when my delegates took the initiative to deviate slightly from the traditional The Hague International Model United Nations (THIMUN) procedure to facilitate better discussion through a “consultation as a whole.” This approach allows for a self-moderated caucus, where delegates could engage more freely. These twenty minutes were filled with impassioned, impromptu speeches, and it was truly inspiring to see delegates who were often shy in committee sessions find the courage to speak up, supported by their peers — regardless of typical country blocs.

This last IASAS MUN was particularly memorable, as the friendships we built continued even after the conference ended. Our final session was filled with organized chaos as we filmed TikTok dances, played games like Block Blast, and shared laughs over superlatives and the gossip box. Despite the usual bureaucratic process, I learned that the essence of MUN is about coming together to advocate for the issues we are truly passionate about. Politics can be unpredictable; the choices we make and the interactions we have cannot be reduced to simple points but require the genuine efforts of each individual to bring about change and share their perspectives. Global issues should never simply become a debate or a power struggle; instead, they must be approached collaboratively to solve problems and uphold our core values and those of the world. Thus, the biggest challenge during this year’s IASAS MUN was saying goodbye.

What do you enjoy most about being part of MUN, and what keeps you motivated to participate in conferences like these?

I’ve been participating in MUN at ISKL since Grade 7! Initially, I joined to explore global issues and improve my speaking skills, but my involvement has grown into something much deeper.

As a delegate, my favorite part is attending various conferences and connecting with like-minded peers; our most recent team trip to IASAS fostered long-lasting friendships, transforming us into a close-knit family. Ultimately, MUN, for me, is all about growth. I used to struggle with confidence as a clueless middle-schooler, but the support from teachers, fellow delegates, and mentors has provided me with invaluable opportunities for personal development.

When we strive for optimistic and realistic solutions to real-world solutions in a world saturated with disheartening news, having a space to create creatively and critically about resolutions is incredibly rewarding and inspiring. Now, as a chair and co-secretary-general, I experience a different facet of MUN — one that emphasizes leadership, management, and the core spirit of diplomacy. It’s immediately clear to see which delegates come to the conference to compete for awards and who are truly passionate about collaborating and creating comprehensive solutions. As a chair, I feel it’s my responsibility to facilitate effective communication and collaboration, crafting an environment that recognizes and appreciates all efforts; this approach cultivates enthusiasm and fosters growth for everyone involved!

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone attending MUN for the first time?

As a first-time MUN delegate, the most important thing is to raise your placard! Many newcomers might feel intimidated by the procedures or the presence of experienced members, but actively seeking to participate allows the chairs to give you feedback and help you build your confidence. Never hesitate to speak up and ask questions — every delegate was once in your shoes, and everybody is happy to help.

Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff who always has an anecdote to tell, loves to share some insights into their passions and interests, or simply is a Panther through and through? Nominate them to be featured in our Panthers of ISKL stories by sending in your submissions here.