Ambassador Williams Champions Youth Empowerment in Dialogue with Columbia University Model UN Delegation

On January 21, 2025, the Permanent Mission of St. Kitts and Nevis to the United Nations hosted a delegation of high school students from Indonesia who were participating in the Columbia University Model United Nations Conference and Exposition (CMUNCE) 2025. This engagement, spearheaded by Her Excellency Dr. Mutryce Williams, Permanent Representative to the United Nations, aligned with her focus on sustainability, security, and youth empowerment. The meeting offered a valuable opportunity for cultural exchange and a deep dive into the foreign policy and cultural landscape of St. Kitts and Nevis. Ambassador Donya Francis to Taiwan and Mr. Eustace T. Wallace, Minister Counselor at the Permanent Mission, also contributed their expertise to the enriching discussion.

Dr. Williams addressed the Indonesian delegation, emphasizing the importance of cultivating curiosity throughout their educational journey and beyond. She encouraged them to explore diverse fields of study and resist limiting themselves to a single academic discipline. Underscoring the significance of global engagement, Dr. Williams championed the United Nations as a force for positive change, highlighting the organization’s commitment to empowering and protecting youth, promoting sustainable development, and fostering resilience, particularly for women and girls. This message resonated with the young delegates, who represent the future generation of leaders and global citizens.

Ambassador Francis, a former teacher, shared his perspective on the crucial role of intergenerational dialogue in bridging cultural divides and fostering mutual understanding. He stressed the importance of such interactions in promoting cooperation and connectivity between different groups. The meeting provided a valuable platform for the students to interact with experienced diplomats and gain insights into international relations and diplomacy. The engagement with the Indonesian delegation showcased the commitment of the St. Kitts and Nevis Permanent Mission to fostering youth engagement in global affairs.

The Columbia University Model United Nations Conference and Exposition (CMUNCE), held from January 16th to 19th, 2025, is a prominent high school Model UN conference that attracts students from across the globe. The event provides a challenging, stimulating, and enriching debate experience, allowing participants to engage with complex global issues and hone their diplomatic skills. The Indonesian delegation’s participation in CMUNCE demonstrates their commitment to global citizenship and their interest in international affairs.

Dr. Williams, inspired by the interaction with the Indonesian students, extended an invitation to youth across St. Kitts and Nevis to explore Model United Nations opportunities. She emphasized the empowering nature of such programs, which provide young people with a platform to engage with critical global issues and develop their leadership potential. Model UN programs equip participants with essential skills such as public speaking, negotiation, research, and critical thinking, which are valuable assets for future leaders in any field.

The engagement between the St. Kitts and Nevis Permanent Mission and the Indonesian high school delegation highlights the importance of international cooperation, youth empowerment, and cross-cultural exchange. Dr. Williams’ emphasis on curiosity, lifelong learning, and engagement in global affairs serves as a powerful message for young people around the world. The event underscores the potential of Model UN programs to shape the next generation of leaders and contribute to a more interconnected and understanding world. The active participation of Ambassador Francis and Mr. Wallace further enriched the experience for the students, offering valuable insights into the world of diplomacy and international relations. This encounter serves as a testament to the power of diplomacy and the role of youth in shaping the future of global affairs.