Testimonials
Bart Huisinga
Find your voice”. Seldom does a motto so accurately capture the true nature of a foundation as in the case of Leiden MUN. It is a motto which is inclusive and all-encompassing, and I have found it to ring true in all aspects of my MUN experiences. To me, this motto emphasises a core principle of Leiden MUN: your value is not measured by your past experience or current abilities but by your potential and willingness to grow. Both as a delegate and, crucially, as a person. Indeed, debating with Leiden MUN is not merely a matter of projecting the voice you already have, but rather of finding those elements that are missing. To me, this was a crucial realisation during my preparatory track for Harvard National MUN. I began my journey with Leiden MUN as someone with extensive MUN experience, yet still a certain nervousness in public speaking. I was not confident enough to expose my vulnerabilities, and it was hindering my growth.
This was something which my PDP, Diego, instantly recognised. Alongside regular debates and skills labs, I found immense satisfaction in committing myself to weekly mentoring sessions with him, during which I was pushed to new heights. I think that true growth begins the moment you allow yourself to be vulnerable, to step beyond your comfort zone. Through the safe and supportive environment within the delegation, I feel I have not only achieved such growth myself, but I have also seen others obtain it. I am incredibly proud of our delegation, and profoundly thankful to the LeidenMUN board for an unforgettable experience at Harvard. My experience with Leiden MUN was special. It has further fueled my passion for politics and diplomacy and allowed me to engage with the issues that matter to me most. Ideas are powerful, especially when articulated with grace and precision. The stimulating and supportive environment of Leiden MUN has taught me just that.
Benjamin Matheson
I am enormously grateful to the Leiden Model UN Foundation; firstly, for enabling me to understand the way in which international organisations like the UN operate. The Model UN has also given me a glance into what a career in diplomacy might offer. Although the experience, only lasted six weeks, it was a period of intense learning and personal growth. I was aware of the commitment it would involve, but as a first year in my first semester, it was no small undertaking. I was nevertheless attracted by the possibility of competing in a debate, which previously been confined to my dinner table at home! The opportunity to speak in a formal setting and in an environment which I did not always feel comfortable in, allowed me to develop my public speaking. This has an enormous value for future careers but also allowed me to develop greater confidence. The Model UN also gave me a brilliant opportunity to meet new people not only at Leiden but across Europe as the conferences are an excellent opportunity to start building a network. They are also tremendously enjoyable, with both committee and social events creating a perfect balance between fun and hard work.
Photo credit: IEUMUN
Joris van Buiten
As a delegate of the Leiden MUN foundation, I had one of the best university experiences during the IEUMUN prep track. After my first year at Security Studies, I wanted a bigger challenge. At Security Studies, I learn a lot about conflicts, wars, international law, and terrorism. The prep-track added to this experience since I learned more about the side of international politics behind these global problems.
I also wanted to become better at public speaking and debating. The prep track is an excellent way to become more proficient at public speaking to the point that I can now make great speeches in a few seconds or even during the speech itself. This will not only help me in future job opportunities but also currently for my degree in creating presentations. My public speaking skills went considerably up and I currently also have a much better understanding of how I can structure those speeches to bring my arguments in the best way.
Before starting the prep track I was always a bit nervous during debates, but with the guidance of my mentor, I learned to overcome this. With the experience of my mentor, Enzo Fong, and the personal attention I got from him, I improved in public speaking, negotiating, debating, and doing research, which I was also able to use for my bachelor's degree. This all combined, together with making friends for life, I would advise everyone to do a prep track at the Leiden Model United Nations Foundation to better their education and get the best university experience possible.
Friedrun Lasch
The Leiden MUN prep track is a multi-faceted experience. Part of the prep track is to learn who you are in debate. When I began my Leiden MUN journey, I had a clear understanding of my debate style, or so I thought. Confident in my ability to mediate and find compromises, I believed this skill was inherent, and as a middle child, I thought it was in my genes.
However, when my PDP Edu met me, he had different plans. Contrary to my self-assessment, Edu saw a different potential in me. He was convinced that I could be persuasive and powerful in debate. I was not convinced but, who would have thought, Edu would be right. In Madrid, I found myself embracing a self-assured and assertive stance, advocating fiercely for my country's interests, leaving behind my inclination towards harmony and fighting for my place in power.
The verbal commendation in the UNHCR was a reflection of my confidence and the skills that I acquired through my journey with Leiden MUN. This experience has truly changed how I see myself. It has given me a newfound sense of strength and confidence in my capabilities. I am very grateful to the board and especially my PDP, Edu, who had a vision for me right from the beginning.