Authors: Kyra Kelly and Justine Deguzman
The first-ever Global Youth Ambassadors Model United Nations (GYAMUN) in Baguio City was held on August 22–23, 2025, at the DBP Training Complex. More than just a conference, the event served as a platform for young leaders to develop their skills in leadership, diplomacy, and global awareness, bringing together youth from across the globe.
The University of Baguio (UB) took part in the event through the participation of the Supreme Student Council (SSC) and the Politis organization to the conference. BA Political Science students Kyra Kelly represented the Bahamas and Corin Danella David the Netherlands, while Coleen Frances Dizon joined as an observer. The councils featured in the conference included UNICEF, INTERPOL, UNESCO, and ASEAN. UB delegates Kelly and David stood out in the UNICEF Council, which deliberated on the agenda: “Feeding the Future: Uniting the World Against Child Food Poverty” as they were commended for their strong debating skills and effective participation throughout the sessions.
Meanwhile, volunteer students from the Politis Organization served as working staff and note passers, ensuring the smooth flow of the different councils. They included Ma. Michaelah J. Garraez (INTERPOL Council), Isabela Fate A. Mas (ASEAN Council), and Holy Faith A. Agustin and Justine R. De Guzman (UNICEF Council). Each of them contributed to maintaining order, assisting delegates, and learning from the parliamentary processes of their assigned bodies. The event offered a valuable opportunity to immerse themselves in relevant global issues, study the mandates of international councils, and gain deeper exposure to foreign relations which aligns closely with their academic training.
Significantly, UB’s participation was made possible through the efforts of Justin Marty Tomilas, a multi-awarded delegate and the Secretary-General of GYAMUN, together with Genesis Velasco, former SSC Vice President of the University of Baguio and Master of Ceremonies for the event. Through the initiative of Kyra Kelly, SSC Secretary for administration and Politis member, she helped open the opportunity for Political Science students to join as volunteers and gain firsthand exposure to international diplomacy. The conference not only showcased the talent and commitment of UB STELA student leaders but also served as an inspiring avenue to encourage more Political Science students to engage with international affairs and diplomacy.
