Over the past two terms, Wilderness students have participated in a number of United Nations (UN) Youth Events, including the Model UN (known as the EVATT competition) and the UN Youth Young Leaders Summit on Sustainability. The activities broadened students’ understanding of the world around them and how diplomacy works in different scenarios.

Several students were successful in reaching the semi finals of the EVATT competition, with Year 11 students Natasha Lippett and Lucy Lydeamore reaching the final. Congratulations to all girls!

EVATT Competition

In July, we were fortunate enough to get through to the South Australian EVATT Model UN grand final. This competition is organised by UN Youth South Australia, and asks students to take on the role of diplomats representing a country on the United Nations Security Council. In our pair, we represented China during the preliminary round, Ecuador in the semi final and Brazil in the grand final, during which we worked together to write speeches and negotiate with other countries to solve real world problems and resolve potential conflicts. Unlike a regular debate, Model UN brings together between 10 to 15 pairs of students to debate a proposed resolution by adding, striking and editing amendments to favour your country’s agenda.

This competition required us to take on different perspectives as we encountered conflicting interests and ideas, and challenged us to think in new ways. We also enjoyed creating new bonds with the people we met from across the state. Next year, we hope to go all the way to the nationals round. We also encourage other students to give EVATT and other UN Youth events a go!

Natasha Lippett and Lucy Lydeamore
Year 11

UN Youth Young Leaders Summit: Sustainability

Participating in the UN Sustainability Summit was an extraordinary experience that provided us with invaluable insights into the future of sustainable living.

Through a series of guest speakers from the universities, government and private sector, we were introduced to new methods of being sustainable through the usage of technology, from mapping trees to managing light, air and water pollution. The lectures highlighted the pressing issues surrounding our climate and what we can do, both individually and as a community. The lectures also highlighted the remarkable progress made due to the development of technology.

Beyond the educational aspect, the summit fostered a sense of community through group activities, enriching our understanding of sustainable practices and potential solutions. At the end of these group discussions, we realised that every contribution, no matter how small, has the potential to drive positive change.

We also had the opportunity to participate in diplomatic scenarios where we had to take the position of different stakeholders to provide a solution to a real world crisis related to sustainability in the natural environment.

This experience has enhanced and strengthened our motivation to proactively work towards improving our community and environment. The UN Youth Sustainability Summit was definitely a worthwhile experience that everyone should participate in.

Emily Nguyen and Niya Singhal
Year 10

Stephanie Andrews
Head of Global Learning

(Photographs are courtesy of UN Youth SA.)