NAIMUN LXII: Student Diplomacy at its Finest

By Quinn Martindale ’27, Resident Editor; Edited by Safiya Ahmed ’27, Resident Editor

Washington, D.C., was more alive than ever this month as it welcomed over 3,000 student delegates from around the world to the 62nd North American Invitational Model United Nations (NAIMUN). Over four days, students debated and tackled pressing global, social, and humanitarian crises—much like real-world governments do today.

Set against the backdrop of the U.S. capital, NAIMUN once again lived up to its reputation as one of the most prestigious high school Model UN conferences in the world. Run by Georgetown University’s International Relations Association, the conference gives students a chance to step into the shoes of global decision-makers. This year’s theme, Diplomacy through Education, felt especially relevant in an age of political and social unrest. “We recognize how rewarding Model UN can be as a tool to encourage youth engagement with global issues and instill lifelong skills in students,” said Secretary-General Jazmine Yazid.

From bustling General Assemblies to tightly knit crisis committees, there was no shortage of thought-provoking debate and problem-solving. In the Legal Committee, students tackled the challenge of failed states, proposing solutions for both prevention and recovery. Meanwhile, the Security Council’s simulated crises showed just how quickly international relations can shift and require decisive action. “I went into the historical crisis committee unsure of how I could bring new ideas to the table, but as the conference progressed, my confidence grew, and I found I made a strong impact in my group,” said Safiya Ahmed ’27.

Although much of NAIMUN is spent in committee sessions, Ridley College delegates also had the chance to explore Washington, D.C., including visits to Capitol Hill, the White House, and the Library of Congress—proving that some of the best learning happens outside the classroom.

At the end of four intense days, NAIMUN LXII proved to be more than just a competition—it was a sharpening stone for future debaters, changemakers, and leaders. The conference isn’t just about winning awards or writing top-scoring position papers; it’s about forming relationships, honing diplomatic skills, and continuously learning how to be a better delegate. NAIMUN LXII truly upheld its theme, diplomacy through education.