Model United Nation (KMUN), ignites a new era of debate, uniting big ideas and bold debate in one room. Model UN is where students step into the shoes of different countries to debate real-world issues from that country’s perspective.
This club was student-created at the beginning of the school year. It is open to all students who are interested. Model UN is an opportunity to learn about new countries and their perspectives. The club has given many of the members new speech skills, improved knowledge, and has given them personal growth.
“What inspired us to start Model UN was the fact that we wanted the student body to be more engaged and educated on world issues,” Paris Ubani said.
That goal to bring awareness to fellow students is evident in the way the club members step into their roles of global leaders that debate real-world issues to find a hypothetical solution to a problem.
However, this club does face a common misconception; they are the same as Speech and debate.
“A common misconception about Model UN is that it is similar to Speech and Debate. They both involve public speaking, but Model UN focuses more on diplomacy, collaboration, and problem solving,”, Panteha Imanian Arabi said.
The difference between these two clubs help set a certain set of skills for KMUN members to develop.
Within this club, there are many different roles and responsibilities in order for them to debate in these countries’ roles. Everyone has something to do that is important.
“In Model UN, my role is press corps. I act as the conference’s media and report on other committees’ debates through news updates, media posts, and videos. I’m Kerr Model UN’s historian and capture KMUN’s experiences to share on Instagram,” Lu said.
Lu’s role is important for the students outside of the club to see the aspects of Model UN. Without her role, many students would not be aware of KMUN and the things they do.
“I am currently a chair in Kerr Model United Nations. The most important skills for my role are being organized, speaking clearly, and keeping discussion fair and on track,” Arabi said.
Arabi’s role is important to keeping the club running and in check. Their commitment to their roles help create a surrounding of inclusivity and collaboration, which helps make a good leader.
“I believe that great communication, authenticity, and the ability to support others make a successful leader,” Arabi said.
The way they dedicate themselves to this club demonstrates how much care goes into making Model UN important for every participant, so it is no surprise that the environment of Model UN is very welcoming.
“I would say it’s easy to make friends in this club. Everyone is friendly, and the club has a supportive environment. It’s open to all, and everyone has at least one thing in common: to develop better speaking skills. Making friends with those speaking skills is the perfect way to improve,” Lu said.
Lu has been able to experience how welcoming the club is and reflects a bigger sense of connection that is communally shared among members. This experience has not just been for her, but also for her fellow friends in Kerr Model UN.
“This club has brought me closer to people and taught me patience,” Ubani said.
Ubani has made deep connections among her fellow club members and that has been a friendly circumstance done by Model UN.
Even though the members of KMUN are nice, and responsible, Ubani also expresses that they experience struggles within.
“The biggest struggle with Model UN being a new club would most likely be getting the technicalities down. There are many parts of starting up a club that you are not aware of until you are in that position.” Ubani said.
Even though this new club experiences obstacles, they’re also able to beat them.
“To overcome these struggles, our officers work together to find out the quickest way to solve any problems. Dedicating tasks to different officers also helps out a lot,” U
bani said.
Model UN is currently preparing for its first tournament, but the members of this club have recognized the need for better consistency in preparation and practice.
These improvements will help them perform well at their debut tournament while also setting them up for success in their possible winter tournament as they prepare for it.
“Since we are a relatively new club, we haven’t participated in any tournaments yet. However, we plan to dedicate multiple meetings to preparation once we schedule our first one,” Arabi said.
Plans to attend tournaments are being set up. Arabi shares what expectations the club has for the future.
“If I’m not mistaken, our first tournament will likely take place around January or after. We hope to have our first tournament within the district, preferably with Alief Early College High School, since they are the only other Model UN club in our district. This will help us prepare for larger and important tournaments in the future,” Arabi said.
Although Model UN is still a new club, its impact on students who participate is already clear.
They’re developing stronger voices, meaningful relationships, and gaining a bigger understanding of the world around them.
As they actively prepare for their first tournament, they are also setting a foundation for greater opportunities.
With these dedicated, smart leaders and great team, Model UN is on its way to being an influential club in the school community.
“I can’t wait to go and gain more experience, as well as capture KMUN’s experiences,” Arabi said.
