Debate, Diplomacy, and Leadership Take Center Stage at MUNations VIII
The eighth edition of the conference brought together students from schools across Brasília and recognized Nations' students for their performance across several committees.
From September 24 to 26, more than 180 students gathered at School of the Nations for the eighth edition of MUNations, a Model United Nations (MUN) conference that transforms the campus into a space for debate, diplomacy, and collaboration.
Throughout the conference, participants took on a variety of roles, from delegates and chairs to members of the Press Corps and organizing teams. Working in committees, students were challenged to debate political, historical, and international issues, represent different perspectives, and work toward solutions through dialogue and negotiation.
This year, MUNations welcomed students from both private and public schools across Brasília, creating even more opportunities for participants to exchange ideas and perspectives. The conference was also supported by Hult International Business School and Hayek Global College, partners of this year’s edition.
A Student-Led Conference
Behind the debates and committee sessions is an extensive organizational effort led by the students themselves. At the helm of MUNations VIII were Secretary-Generals Giovanna Brito and Maria Isabel Campo, both Grade 12 students, who led the Secretariat, the student team responsible for coordinating the conference.
Giovanna has participated in MUN conferences since Grade 8 and has served as Secretary-General since Grade 10. For her, taking on a leadership role has given her a new perspective on responsibility and her own capabilities.
“Having this leadership role feels very powerful because, at least for me, it was the first time I felt that I was truly taken seriously academically. I felt respected, appreciated, and admired, both by younger students, who I could see looked up to me, and by teachers and other figures who had previously been in positions of authority. I felt that they were seeing me as more competent and mature.”
Nations Students Recognized Across Committees
Throughout the three-day conference, Nations students also distinguished themselves in committee debates and activities, with students across grade levels receiving recognition for their performance, participation, and public speaking.
Marco Antônio, Grade 11, received the Best Delegate award, recognizing his performance throughout the conference.
In the American Democracy Committee, two Grade 11 students received awards: Nicole Frasunkiewicz was named Best Speaker, standing out for her public speaking skills, while Katarina Santos received an Honorable Mention for her participation.
In the Military Dictatorship Committee, Henrique Bracarense, Grade 10, received the Best Speaker award in recognition of his active participation in the debates. In the same committee, Clara Torres received an Honorable Mention.
In the Historical Committee, Rodolfo Araújo, Grade 12, was also named Best Speaker, while Ana Beatriz Noleto received an Honorable Mention.
Younger students also earned recognition. In the Junior Security Council, a committee designed for Middle School participants, Grade 7 students Beatriz Sacco and Idum Bergum received Honorable Mentions for their participation.
Beyond individual awards, MUNations VIII allowed students to put research, argumentation, communication, negotiation, and leadership skills into practice. For those participating in the debates and those working behind the scenes, the conference was also an exercise in shared responsibility, with students taking on different roles and working together to bring a truly student-led event to life.
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