Evangeline Maffey-to The Hague!

You’ve found yourself at my page, so I better introduce myself. My name is Evangeline Maffey, I’m 18 years old and I live in Christchurch. Recently a very exciting opportunity was presented to me: the role of Head Delegate leading the New Zealand Delegation to The Hague International Model United Nations!

Applying for this conference was a tense process. I applied before I spent my school break in windy Wellington attending New Zealand Model United Nations. After making it through my interview I awaited the closing ceremony where the delegation would be announced. After twenty names had been called I was preparing myself to put on a brave face, but to my absolute surprise, my name was the last one on the list as Head Delegate of the trip!

What is this and why does it mean so much to me? UN Youth has been a part of my life for three years now. I admire this university youth led organisation to the utmost degree (and they didn’t even pay me to say that.) They run events that simulate the workings of the United Nations, along with workshops and events that allow youth to interact with diplomats and other notable dignitaries. However, they do more than that. They open doors by igniting passion in youth, create a safe environment in which we can share our opinions, and organise mediums through which we can make change in our country.

I have attended three regional events and two national, and now I have the opportunity to represent UN Youth and New Zealand at an international conference in January 2016. This means the world to me.

THIMUN itself is an amazing array of experiences. Not only does the New Zealand Delegation attend the conference, they also go on a study tour firstly to New York, then to Europe to major cities such as Berlin, Geneva, Amsterdam and Rome. Whilst doing this, students have the chance to visit sites of historic significance such as the 9/11 Memorial and Anne Frank House as well as visiting different United Nations buildings, including their headquarters. The conference itself is in The Hague, with over 4000 students from across the world coming together to debate on global issues.

As head of delegation I am responsible for being the face to everyone we meet, as well as looking after my fellow students both at the conference and through all the long hours of travel. I look forward to filling these shoes with apprehension but excitement!

Like anything, there comes a cost. To go on this trip, I need to raise $8000. The next 6 months will be full of fundraising and working to achieve my dream, and I would love to have your help too!

Help can mean telling others about my opportunity, giving me some words of support and your tips for facing a Northern Hemisphere winter, or by donating to my cause - everything helps!