This November, the Lauremont School Model UN Team traveled to Montreal for the Secondary Schools United Nations Symposium (SSUNS), one of the largest and most competitive Model UN conferences in Canada.

From November 7th to the 10th, over 1,500 students from across North America gathered to engage in simulations of UN councils, debates, and historic crises. Sponsored by McGill University, SSUNS provides a unique platform for students to develop skills in diplomacy, public speaking, negotiation, and critical thinking.

Lauremont School delegates participated in a range of UN simulations, including the UN General Assembly, the UN Economic and Social Council, and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). They were fortunate to represent powerful countries such as the United States, China, and Indonesia. Additionally, some delegates engaged in historical crisis simulations, including the Battle of Talas (751 AD), Cleopatra’s Egypt, and a 2030 corporate showdown between SpaceX and Blue Origin.

Throughout the conference, Lauremont School students demonstrated leadership, creativity, and critical thinking. They honed their public speaking skills, collaborated effectively, and practiced resolution writing and negotiation. One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity for three Lauremont School delegates in the UN Tourism Committee to debate in the actual ICAO chambers, a rare privilege for students attending the conference.

Special recognition goes to Ayden L. (Grade 12), the Head Boy at Lauremont School and head delegate of the school’s delegation. In his third year at SSUNS, Ayden excelled in the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII).

His outstanding diplomatic skills and advocacy efforts earned him the Viola Desmond Award for Advocacy, a prestigious gavel given to the most exceptional delegate in the Advanced Committee. Ayden’s leadership in the Model UN club at Lauremont School has been a guiding force for the team, and his contributions will be missed as he prepares for graduation.

Another standout was Caleb T. (Grade 11), attending his second SSUNS. Caleb’s impressive growth and creativity in the Sky is Not the Limit: SpaceX vs. Blue Origin, 2030 crisis committee earned him the Outstanding Delegate Award.

His ability to craft a compelling narrative for his character and the use of strategic persuasion helped him succeed in this complex, fictionalized scenario. Caleb’s passion for Model UN promises continued success for the Lauremont School team at future conferences.

The Lauremont School Model UN team continues to thrive, and their success at SSUNS is a testament to their dedication, teamwork, and the leadership that drives them forward. The Lauremont Model UN team is excited to build on their success, with nine delegates from Grades 11 and 12 preparing for The Hague International Model UN (THIMUN) in the Netherlands in January 2025.

The following students all deserve congratulations for their fine achievements: