Model United Nations (MUN) is one of the most dynamic and engaging activities at GESS, giving students the opportunity to simulate UN sessions, debate global issues, and grow as leaders. We listen as two members of the MUN team, Shanze and Lucas, share their experiences, insights, and passion for international relations.
Hi Shanze and Lucas, could you introduce yourselves and tell us what GESS MUN is about?
[Shanze]
This is my fifth year at GESS and my final year as I’ll be graduating in the IB class of 2025. I’ve been active in MUN since joining GESS, starting with junior MUN, and have now attended ten conferences. Over the years, I’ve seen the CCA grow, with almost 50 students onboard this year, which is the most we’ve had so far. The core team, comprising five students and three teachers, is currently focused on planning our very first internal conference, set for February 2025. The goal of MUN is to spark excitement about international relations and global politics through UN committee simulations, tackling relevant global topics.
[Lucas]
I’m Lucas Gargiulo, and I’ve been at GESS since pre-primary after returning to Singapore in 2013. MUN is by far my favourite extracurricular activity. I started in junior MUN in Grade 7 and joined the main MUN CCA in Grade 9. The group has grown immensely since then, and it’s now a lively hub of debate with about 50 students. We simulate real UN sessions, where delegates represent countries, research their positions on key issues, write resolutions, and debate them. I’m currently serving as the President of the General Assembly for GESSMUN and ensuring our committees run smoothly – it’s a lot of work, but I love it.
Shanze 
Lucas
What made you join MUN, and what is the part you enjoy most?
[Shanze]
I’ve always been drawn to international relations and plan to pursue it after GESS. I first heard about MUN at my previous school in Switzerland, and I was immediately intrigued. When I came to GESS, I signed up right away. The part I enjoy most is the challenge – whether it’s representing a country with values different from my own or remaining diplomatic while negotiating. It forces me to adapt, think critically, and work for the greater good.
[Lucas]
My interest in international relations began when I was younger, listening to the BBC on radio. I’ve always enjoyed public speaking, so when I first heard about MUN in Grade 5, I was ecstatic. I love the debates – preparing a speech, delivering it, and responding to tough questions are one of the most thrilling experiences for me.
You have been involved in many events and clocked many achievements last year. Could you describe your most memorable experience so far?
[Shanze]
One of the most memorable experiences was attending the international conference in Athens last March. MUN is all about global connectivity, and meeting students from South Africa, Pakistan, and the USA reminded me why I love international relations. It reignited my passion and reaffirmed my career aspirations.
[Lucas]
My most memorable moment was at the same conference mentioned by Shanze in March. During the General Assembly plenary session, I was the last to speak in a debate and argued against a resolution I disagreed with. It ended up being the only resolution that didn’t pass, and the author even congratulated me on my speech. To top it off, I won the Best Delegate award for my committee.
How have your experiences and opportunities in GESS helped you in your personal development?
[Shanze]
One significant experience was my Grade 11 internship week, where I interned with a pharmaceutical company’s legal team. It showed me the realities of corporate law and helped me realise that it’s not for me, but the experience pushed me out of my comfort zone, which I really appreciated.
[Lucas]
GESS has given me countless opportunities for personal development. As Student President, I’ve become much more organized and learned how to manage my time efficiently. I now rely on my calendar and regularly check emails to stay on top of my responsibilities.
What are some of the skills you foresee will help you in your future?
[Shanze]
MUN has taught me how to communicate effectively with people who have vastly different views from mine. The ability to negotiate and find common ground will be invaluable in the future, especially in the workplace.
[Lucas]
MUN has strengthened my research and public speaking skills. I’ve learned to focus on essentials when researching and to keep my speeches concise. These skills have been incredibly useful in school and will no doubt help me in my future career.
How do you juggle schoolwork and extracurricular activities like MUN?
[Shanze]
The IB is challenging, and juggling schoolwork with extracurricular activities can be overwhelming. But I make sure to carve out time for things I enjoy, which helps balance everything. My teachers have been incredibly supportive, understanding the pressures we face and helping us manage it all.
[Lucas]
As a new IB student, I’ve had to manage my time carefully. I use organisational tools like my calendar and check Teams for lesson plans when I miss classes due to meetings. My teachers and parents have been great sources of support, helping me stay in check when things get rough.
What would you say to fellow students interested in joining MUN?
[Shanze]
MUN is perfect for anyone interested in law, international relations, or public speaking. It’s a great way to sharpen your debate skills and meet like-minded people. You can sign up through the CCA portal – it runs every Wednesday.
[Lucas]
MUN is both fun and beneficial for your university applications. It’s a chance to improve your public speaking, learn more about global issues, and connect with a community that’s passionate about debate. Sign up through the CCA portal or reach out to Mr. Felix Rieckmann.
Meet the Teacher Advisors!
[Felix Rieckmann]
With over 10 years at GESS, Mr. Rieckmann brings a wealth of experience and passion to MUN. A trained actor and singer, his global journey has taken him from Germany to New York City and Shanghai. His dedication to growing the MUN programme, now with almost 50 delegates, has been a highlight of his educational career. He’s eagerly preparing for GESSMUN in 2025, the first-ever international schools conference hosted by GESS.
[Christina Lydia Brockmann]
Ms. Brockmann brings her experience from Germany’s Ruhrgebiet and Oxford, England. She is excited to see the MUN team grow and flourish. After previous trips to Dubai and Athens, she’s looking forward to accompanying the group to MUN’s international conference in Beijing. Supporting students in preparing for GESSMUN I is one of her highlights this academic year.
[Franziska Barnickel]
Ms. Barnickel, originally from Southern Germany, has spent over a decade in education across Ireland, the US, and Vietnam before joining GESS. This is her first year as a MUN advisor, and she is excited to help students grow into global-minded leaders through diplomacy and teamwork. With GESSMUN on the horizon, she’s ready to contribute to what promises to be a defining moment for the MUN team.
