On Jan. 31 and Feb 1., Huntington Beach High School (HBHS) hosted its 22nd Surf City Model United Nations (MUN) Conference, challenging advanced-level MUN delegates to research, speak and connect while seeking innovative means solutions to solve real-world issues. The conference featured 17 unique committees, based on real United Nations branches and other international bodies, that discussed everything from money laundering in Haiti to anti-doping in the Olympics. All committees were directed by HBHS MUN students.

Serena Haider, an HBHS MUN sophomore who participated in the conference, said, “I think this conference was the most challenging [and] competitive one I’ve ever done, but it was also the most fun I have had competing.” 

The conference is unique compared to many other high school conferences as it begins Friday, January 31st after school. The “night conference” style of committee is uncommon across high school MUN circuits and pushes students to work on their endurance and diplomacy, even after a long day. Beyond the physical challenges of this two-day conference, delegates are kept on their toes as many of the committees create crises that delegates are forced to solve rapidly, changing the course of history. 

Rodrigo Cortez, a student staffer for the Historical Crisis committee, said, “My favorite thing about the conference was being able to change history. It is really cool, considering that you have the precedent of what already happened, and you can ask questions like, ‘What if this would’ve happened?’”

While delegates compete, HBHS freshmen in MUN can look into their future and “page” the conference. Advanced conferences are often very intimidating for freshmen, and Surf City MUN allows them to prepare for the future, watching and learning from more advanced delegates. 

Kaylee Worth, who paged the conference, said, “When I went to some of the other advanced [committees] I felt confident that I could keep up and stay in MUN”.

This empowerment keeps the HBHS MUN program in motion as it continues to inspire the next generation of delegates as the conference prepares for its 23rd year.