Students play diplomats in DAHMUN conference

Dar Al-Hekma Model United Nations (DAHMUN) recently kicked off its three-day conference successfully, bringing out the talents of many youth from different schools in the Kingdom.
The third annual DAHMUN conference, held at the Dar Al-Hekma College auditorium, ran under the theme “Embracing Nations: What lies beyond the borders”.
Chaman Rahim, founder of DAHMUN, said it had always been a source of pride to have young students embark upon a journey that even those with age feel dubious about. “The bar just keeps rising each year, and with that the need to bring forth an event that is equally challenging and demanding remains a continuous dedication of the DAHMUN officials.”
Over 170 delegates and students from international schools in Jeddah — Al-Falah International School-DPS, Jeddah Knowledge School, Bangladesh International School, International Indian School, Manarat International School, Al-Waha International School and Global International School — participated in the conference.
Said Aghil Baaghil, brand marketing consultant and author of “The Power of Belonging”, who was the keynote speaker at the DAHMUN final session, said he was impressed by the organizing committee and the event. “This is one of many reasons I hold Dar Al-Hekma close to my heart. I’m so proud of the students, and tonight’s opening event of the model UN showcased the minds and skills this institution is equipped with,” he said.
The International Indian School managed to seize the title of “Best Delegation”, while winners of the “Best Delegates” were Kausar Azam as the delegate of Oxfam; Ruqaiyah Quadri as the delegate of China in the General Assembly; Tabir Shakeel Malik as the delegate of China in the Security Council; Safiya Khan as the delegate of Turkey; and Sara Abdul Raheem as the delegate of Ukraine.
“My DAHMUN experience was very enriching,” said Sadaf Samar Khan, a student from the International Indian School, Jeddah, and a delegate from the Human Rights Council, who was crowned the most organized delegate and honorary best speaker that evening.
“It gave me a lot to learn in terms of organization, public speaking, as well as public conduct. It let me appreciate the role of our leaders and realize their contributions to what constitutes a relatively peaceful world that we live in today as compared to half a century ago. It made me aware of global problems in an in-depth manner, and this event triggered my interest in world events and news like never before. It was a place to formulate new friendships for life. All in all, it was a really refreshing, challenging as well as motivating experience for me on a personal level,” she said.
Khan mentioned that the competition among delegates was tough, yet everybody was very civil and genial with each other off the sessions.
“I was extremely elated when my school won the best delegation, as all the International Indian School delegates were very disciplined, well researched in their respective areas, and very articulate and eloquent,” she said.
“It was a marvelous experience, filled with many ups and downs,” said Mazza Farajalla, DAHMUN public speaking specialist and president of Dar Al-Hekma Toastmasters Club. “The continuous preparations and dedication of the entire DAHMUN team, the time, will, motivation and support that went into the conference is immeasurable but unforgettable. It was truly an experience to remember.”