Ten students from Westminster Islamabad participated in the Global Model United Nations Singapore 2026, competing against more than 700 delegates from over 50 countries. They returned home with eight Best Diplomacy awards, a remarkable achievement considering most of the young delegates were between 12 and 15 years old.
Model United Nations is a simulation in which students take on the role of country delegates and debate real global issues as diplomats do at the UN. It combines public speaking, diplomacy and hands-on practice in international relations.
Speaking on Chatroom with Shizza, their coach Dr Shahan Khan said success was not the primary goal. “We just wanted to give our best. The students really wanted to represent the country, represent their school in the best possible manner,” he said. Two students delivered opening speeches at the conference.
For delegate Noor ul Ain, the experience began with anxiety. She had never traveled internationally before and worried that her preparation did not meet MUN standards. However, the Singapore conference quickly changed her perspective. Noor said interacting with students from different countries made the UN feel more accessible and human.
The Pakistani delegation understood the power of cultural diplomacy. They showcased traditional clothing, jewelry, music and cultural items that drew international attention. Delegate Nashwa Fatima said the experience left her feeling “even more proud in the place I come from.” She also reflected on how Pakistanis are perceived abroad: “Because for once, you’re not seen as a terrorist.”
Dr. Khan reminded his students that regardless of which country they represented, they were ultimately representing Pakistan. “No one would remember how many awards you won. But people would remember how you behaved with them, how nice you were, what sort of conversations you had with them,” he said.
Watch the full episode of Chatroom with Shizza for the complete conversation.