RC Trebucq’s Remarks at the Opening Session of the Rotary Barbados 10th Annual Model United Nations Assembly 2024

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:

• Sonya Alleyne, Past District Governor, Barbados South
• Senator the Honourable Lisa Cummins, Minister of Energy and Business, Government of Barbados
• Rotarians
• Teacher Advisors
• Parents
• Distinguished Model Delegates, Permanent Representatives of Member States and the future of our development

Welcome, young changemakers, to Model UN.

Imagine… A world where every voice is heard, every dream embraced, and every young person empowered to build a brighter future. A world where you, right here in this room, are not just delegates, but architects of that future.

That's the world the United Nations strives for, guided by a bold blueprint – Agenda 2030 and its Sustainable Development Goals, or SDGs. These 17 goals reach out to every corner of our planet, addressing the most pressing challenges we face. From eradicating poverty and hunger to securing clean water and sanitation, from fostering responsible production and consumption to protecting fragile ecosystems – the SDGs paint a picture of a world where everyone can thrive.

But this isn't just a future to dream of; it's a future we must actively build, and today, as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of this incredible Rotary Barbados initiative, I'm not just filled with pride, but with immense excitement for the journey ahead.

A decade of fostering global awareness and inspiring young minds to tackle the world's most pressing challenges – that's something to celebrate! 

Addressing the Students

Look around you. Over the next few weeks, you'll step into the shoes of diplomats, representing nations and navigating complex issues. But remember, this isn't just a simulation. The skills you hone here – persuasive arguments, empathetic communication, and collaborative problem-solving – are tools you'll wield in the real world. 

The UN offers a world of opportunities to explore, including internships, youth programs, and diverse career paths in fields like human rights, gender, law, sustainable development, and many others. These opportunities can be a valuable platform for your aspirations and contribute to positive change in the world.

The UN's works to keep the world peaceful and fair. We help countries work together, fix big problems like climate change and inequality, and work to protect the most vulnerable. 

This year's theme, Child Protection, couldn't be more timely. Children – the future of our world – deserve to be safe, healthy, and empowered. It's up to us, and especially up to you, to ensure their voices are heard and their rights are protected. 

But protected from what? From abuse and neglect, exploitation, educational deprivation, cyberbullying, and a range of threats now enhanced by AI and large language models. 

Right here in Barbados, you have a living example of a nation committed to child well-being. From robust education systems to strong social safety nets, Barbados invests in its young people, recognizing their potential to drive positive change.

As you embark on this Model UN journey, remember the core values of the United Nations: peace, development, human rights, and equality. Let these values guide your discussions, fuel your ideas, and ignite your passion for making a difference.

And now, a personal note to all of you. I want you all to know that this is a journey, which may be difficult at first, but it will be exciting, as it has been every year for the past 10 years, and the past 5 with me as RC and Leader of the UN system here in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. And I should know about exciting journeys, and sadly, this will be my last year with you in this capacity, because later this year, I begin another new and exciting journey as RC in another country. And as with all new things, it feels both bittersweet and filled with promise. I look forward to learning, to adapting, and to advancing, just like I will encourage each of you today.

So, dear young diplomats, embrace the spirit of Model UN. Dare to dream big, question the status quo, and let this Model UN Assembly be a springboard for your passion, a launchpad for your leadership, and a testament to the transformative power of youth in shaping a better world.

And remember, the UN stands with you, every step of the way. We're your guide, your partner, your cheerleader in this journey. Together, let's build a world where every child, every voice, and every dream matters. Wishing you all successes. 

Thank you.