Honorable Delegates and Faculty Advisors, 

 

It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to our forty-first edition of the Colegio Nueva Granada Model United Nations Conference (CNGMUN XLI). My name is Sarah Galindo, and I will serve as the Secretary-General for this edition of our conference that will take place on February 10th, 11th and 12th, of 2023. 

 

I am a firm believer that we are all born with unique gifts that have the potential to create positive change. Yet, the question is, how do we accomplish that change? Although there are numerous interpretations, the answer lies in one principle: empathy. The ability to understand another person's experiences and opinions by imagining oneself in their position, or in other words, their "shoes". 

 

Empathy has true transformative power. When we understand the diversity of thought that surrounds our world and the authentic stories of those who cross our path, we do not respond with ignorance in the face of adversity but rather with empathy. Empathy, in essence, is present in our Model United Nations conference. It is the fuel of diplomacy because when we manage to step in the shoes of others and their situation, we can think critically and reach a solution that considers many intricacies.

 

It is with this principle of empathy that I want to welcome you. Without a doubt, throughout the days of our conference, you will truly understand this diversity of thought. My purpose is to inspire you to respond with empathy throughout the conference and beyond so that you can continue to discover your gifts and transform them into progress and development. May this be an opportunity for you to become an agent of change who is aware of your transformative power and may empathy follow each step of your way. 

 

The Secretariat and I are eager to see your power. 

 

Kind regards, 

Sarah Galindo, Secretary General CNGMUN XLI