On November 9th and 10th, Lanna honourably hosted Chiang Mai Model United Nations (CMMUN). This event took place in Amora Hotel and was brimmed with approximately 220 determined delegates from over 10 different schools in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. The whole event was brilliantly orchestrated by Ms.Mandy and Ms.Mumu along with the endless efforts of our Secretary Generals, Marine and Harry. We were also notable graced by an encouraging opening speech from Dr.Rose, an Oxford professor and founder of a clinic in Myanmar. The delegates debated against each other relentlessly for two days, in defense for their designated countries without hesitation.
During the first day, each committee room did un-moderated and moderated caucus in order to win favors for resolutions and preparation for the general assembly (day 2). Every delegate is gathered in the general assembly unlike the first day where each committee room has a set amount of delegates. In the general assembly, intense battles of wits and formality was exhibited, honoring some memorable moments that truly embodied the character of the delegates’ country.
In the colosing/award ceremony, Lanna’s Barali notable won a deserved award for being the best delegate in her committee. In addition, the delegate of the French Republic (Paul from Prem) won a whopping 3 awards for his efforts, which was really no surprise given the amount of time and energy that he obviously put in! Other delegates from different schools managed to receive hard-earned rewards and the event ended peacefully to everyone’s liking. If you want to read the final resolution made, specific information on MUN or have a look at pictures taken, head over to: www.cmmun.org
Introducing our very own Secretary Generals – Harry and Marine, Year 13.
Why did you want to be a Secretary General?
Harry: Marine and I had both kept out eyes on the position of the Secretary General for a year or so. None of us said anything, but I think we both hoped to become Secretary General at some point. A teacher from Grace International School had suggested I be Secretary General for the next conference, having seen my award for Best Chair in March 2018. Actually being told by Ms Mandy that I would be Secretary General was something different altogether, and I was proud to have progressed from delegate to chair to secretary general. It feels like I’ve come a long way since being the Delegate of Canada back in Year 8 and being absolutely terrified of all other delegates who seemed far more prepared than me.
Marine: I distinctly remember being in Year 10 and trying to figure out when Lanna was hosting Model UN next so that I could my rise to power, for lack of a better term. All jokes aside, I think anyone who takes Model UN seriously has thought about being Secretary General at least once. I think I can speak for Harry when I say this has always been in the back of our minds. When the position became a reality, however, I couldn’t believe it. Our of all the candidates possible, I was selected. I was even happier when I was told I was going to have Harry as my colleague as I have enormous trust and confidence in his abilities as he, hopefully has in mine.
What were some of the most challenging moments being Secretary General?
Harry: Overall, the sheer amount of time it took up. Balancing the organisation and planning of a Model United Nations conference with 3 A levels, along with work for the LQ and school production is really difficult. There were a number of times where the amount of work I needed to do, both for MUN and other stuff, practically drove me insane. Chairing the General Assembly of over 200 delegates was also rather daunting, since I’d only ever chaired a committee of 20 or so. Trying to keep track of what was going on in 5 different committee rooms all at the same time was also very challenging, and it was very difficult to have a complete picture of how the conference was going.
Marine: The stress. Definitely the stress! There was always the worry of “Are there enough placards for everyone?”, “Are the lanyards going to come in time?”, “Are my fingers going to stop bleeding after filling these lanyards in?”. Managing the delegates throughout the conference was also quite demanding task. If the Delegate of the United States comes up and makes an inappropriate comment during his speech on immigration, it’s our responsibility to put a stop to it. That’s a lot of responsibility for a 16 year old!
What was the most memorable moment for you in MUN?
Harry: In MUN as a whole, it would be chairing the General Assembly. Whilst originally being gut-wrench-ingly terrifying. I came to really enjoy being on stage and directing the entire debate. Although the authority itself was was rather satisfying, it felt even better knowing that I was there because of my experience and my ability. Having a nice big gavel to bang to call entire room attention was also a very nice part too.
Marine: Being able to look into each committee from an outside perspective was definitely an interesting experience. I was able to see different aspects of each committee as well as the wheels turning behind the scenes which was very engaging. As well as this, the experience of having people coming to me for help, advice or orders was very motivating.
Final thoughts on being a Secretary General?
Harry: I’ve really enjoyed being secretary general and I feel I’ve really gained from my whole experience in MUN since Year 8. Having said that, it was incredibly tiring and I’m glad it’s over so I can finally return to relatively light workload of 3 A levels. Best of luck to whoever is the next secretary general! They’ll need it.
Marine: I’d just like to put in a formal word of thanks to everyone involved. Ms. Mandy has put in so much time and effort in the conference and we can’t thank her enough for the work she’s done. Also. thank you to Ms Mumu and other office staff who have also worked extremely hard to prepare the conference. Thank you to everyone involved, you helped us create a successful event!
