Sedona Charter School’s MMUN Aims for Global Impact

On March 10, students from the Sedona Charter School’s Montessori Model United Nations (MMUN) program gathered to present their learnings about diplomacy and international relations to their parents. This event followed a trip to New York City in February, where students visited the United Nations headquarters.

The MMUN initiative fosters collaboration among students worldwide by enabling them to engage with pressing global issues through a UN-style format. Participants represent various countries, immersing themselves in aspects such as culture, economy, and geography. This year, the students represented countries including Zambia, the Netherlands, Fiji, Botswana, Benin, and Austria.

Teacher Maija Alanen explained the unique model: “Every two delegates select a country outside their own. They must adopt that country’s perspective to address global challenges.” Although most Model United Nations programs target high school students, the MMUN’s roots trace back to a 2006 collaboration initiated by Judith Cunningham, who recognized the value of including younger students in global discussions.

SCS student Lyncoln Malinski highlighted the depth of research involved, stating, “It’s about understanding your assigned issues better and proposing viable solutions.” He focused on the right to food in Botswana, while his partner Carson Bailey addressed water scarcity and agriculture in the same African nation.

“This experience shifts our mindset,” remarked Sage Worssam, who represented Benin. “We often think only from a U.S. perspective, but tackling different nations’ problems broadens our outlook.”

Students also crafted policy papers and prepared speeches summarizing their findings. During her address, Isabella Ontiveros Rosas advocated for women’s rights: “It’s essential we educate young boys on respecting and defending women’s rights.” Her statement prompted a proposal for a UN program aimed at teaching this imperative to future generations.

The event featured cultural display boards, each showcasing unique aspects of the represented countries, such as traditional foods and significant landmarks. Sasha Mottier Waddell and classmates paraded their flags before presenting their insights about the MMUN program.

Looking ahead, student Bailey noted, “On February 21, 2025, all 1,600 delegates and around 400 parents and teachers will gather at the UN General Assembly. This is the highly anticipated culmination of our trip.” He described his experience as exhilarating, emphasizing the importance of his speech and the impact it had on him: “It was overwhelming, yet incredibly rewarding. I’d encourage anyone interested to participate.”

The trip also included visits to iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building and the September 11 Memorial. At their meeting, the students began planning for an upcoming MMUN conference in Bangkok, scheduled for December 9-12.

“Through these experiences, the students discover their voices and work towards tangible solutions,” Alanen concluded.