Celebrating Indigenous Australia with the Australian Ambassador
The journey began with comprehensive MUN training sessions led by the OLE trainers at both campuses. Students were introduced to the foundations of Model United Nations, learning the principles of diplomacy, negotiation, public speaking, and resolution writing in preparation for the conference. On the first day, students at the Beirut campus had the opportunity to engage with Ms. Mahasen Rahal, Senior Political Affairs Officer at the United Nations Special Coordinator’s Office for Lebanon (UNSCOL), who shared valuable insights into the work of the United Nations, multilateral cooperation, and the importance of diplomacy in addressing regional and global challenges. Meanwhile, participants at the Byblos campus welcomed Ms. Nada Koussa, who inspired students through her reflections on leadership, confidence, and representing Lebanon on international platforms.
Building on their newly acquired skills, students continued their MUN training on the second day while learning from distinguished international guests. At the Beirut campus, His Excellency Mr. Frank Mollen, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Lebanon, offered students valuable perspectives on diplomacy, international cooperation, and the evolving role of ambassadors in fostering dialogue and strengthening bilateral relations. Meanwhile, students at the Byblos campus welcomed His Excellency Mr. Tom Wilson, Australian Ambassador to Lebanon, for an insightful discussion on diplomacy, international relations, and the role of ambassadors in strengthening global partnerships.
The third day further deepened students’ understanding of global affairs. Alongside advanced MUN training, Beirut participants attended engaging sessions with Dr. Nayla Tabbara and His Excellency Johan Arief Jaafar, Acting Ambassador of Malaysia to Lebanon, whose discussions highlighted intercultural dialogue, peacebuilding, and diplomatic cooperation. At the Byblos campus, acclaimed Lebanese author and Member of Parliament Michel Douaihy encouraged students to think critically about public service, civic engagement, and the power of informed leadership.
On the fourth day, students continued refining their negotiation and debating skills through intensive MUN simulations before hearing from another exceptional lineup of speakers. Beirut participants met Member of Parliament Paula Yacoubian, who shared her experiences in public service, advocacy, and civic responsibility, while students in Byblos engaged with Dr. Sonia Nakad, whose session emphasized leadership, communication, and the importance of informed decision-making.
The camp culminated in an exciting Model United Nations Conference, where students stepped into the role of diplomats, representing countries, debating pressing international issues, negotiating resolutions, and applying everything they had learned throughout the week. The conference showcased not only their growth in public speaking and diplomacy but also their ability to collaborate, think critically, and address global challenges with confidence and professionalism.
The POLIS MUN Diplomacy Summer Camp 2026 was more than a summer program; it was a transformative learning experience that connected aspiring young leaders with accomplished diplomats, policymakers, and experts while equipping them with practical skills in diplomacy, negotiation, and leadership. As students concluded the week with renewed confidence and a broader understanding of international affairs, they left prepared to become thoughtful global citizens and future changemakers.