Nigerian Chiamaka Stellamaris Nwede, who is based in the United States, has been appointed as a Model United Nations mentor intern at the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia and as an international affairs volunteer mentor at the Diplomatic Leadership Development Programme in Washington DC.
Nwede ─ a public affairs enthusiast, community engagement specialist, and founder of the Stellamaris Foundation ─ was selected for the two positions this semester, just a few months before completing her Master of Science in Public Affairs and Community Development at Rutgers University in New Jersey.
According to her, these roles will allow her to inspire and guide high school students in Philadelphia and Washington DC, in diplomacy, leadership, and global problem-solving, which she said presents an opportunity to deepen her knowledge of global diplomacy.
She stated that the roles would also help her explore practical strategies for teaching negotiation, conflict resolution, and international relations in an engaging way, adding, “It will also contribute to my long-term goal of working with the United Nations by providing hands-on experience in facilitating discussions on global challenges.”
Nwede said that global diplomacy fascinates her because of its ability to transform conflicts into opportunities for cooperation and that she is driven by the opportunity to contribute to such impactful work.
“I recall my undergraduate days at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) where I joined the ESUT Model United Nations Club. I loved the vision and content the club offered. Beyond ESUT, I attended model United Nations events in other states across Nigeria, further solidifying my passion for international affairs,” she said.
“I knew I wanted to work with the United Nations someday. After arriving in the United States, I was selected as part of the delegation to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Youth Summit in 2023 and 2024, a defining moment in my journey,” she added.
Nwede said that this year, she would continue to dream and work towards making a meaningful impact in global diplomacy, adding, “Each step I take reinforces my resolve to contribute to a more peaceful, equitable, and sustainable world.”
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