|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready…
|
The Best Diplomats Conference in Turkey focused on the ongoing refugee crisis in the Middle East. It was also meant to make diplomacy more inclusive by connecting aspiring leaders worldwide in an enriching set-up, allowing them to exchange views, acquire new skills, and become the next generation of leaders working towards a more sustainable future.
Building a more inclusive networked and effective multilateralism by promoting United Nations values and principles is at the core of the organisers mission.
Best Diplomats organizes Diplomatic Simulations which serve as a platform for young leaders and change-makers to exchange ideas and resolve the most challenging global issues. These Diplomatic Simulations are an ideal avenue for aspiring diplomats and advocates to grasp the lobbying and critical thinking skill set that will enable them to become better diplomats.
Chido Manzvimbo, a Diplomat from Zimbabwe said attending the Best Diplomat Conference was the best decision she has ever made.
“The conference was highly organized and what l loved the most was the General Assembly exposure. We got to present our Diplomatic Stances on the topic “The ongoing Refugee Crisis in the Middle East” and the resolutions. I also got a chance to connect with 74 people coming from different countries. I urge all young people to attend the next conferences,” Manzvimbo said.
Valentina Ofi Amiebi-Uchegbu from Nigeria said the experience at the Best Diplomats Conference left him with the belief that stakeholders can collaborate better in solving various challenges across the Continent of Africa.
He revealed that the preparation before the conference and the simulation during the conference were well managed by the organisers.
“Representatives of countries came together to discuss possible solutions and arrive at a common way forward on the highlighted issue/case study. This we achieved successfully, which resulted in friendships formed due to the meeting of like minds. I look forward to participating in future conferences,” he said.
Best Diplomats conference is a great opportunity and simulation platform for young professionals and leaders who aspire and are determined to bring positive changes in the world through diplomacy and diplomatic simulation to share and exchange valuable ideas and experiences for the future of sustainable development.
It was also an avenue to meet with like-minded people from around the world, especially my fellow brothers and sisters from African countries knowing fully well we are fighting and standing together for the same cause to make our African continent stronger and better for a common future.
Ambassador Taiwo Julius Sanusi, Former Member of Nigeria Children’s Parliament said: “In addition, it gives me joy to have participated in the Best Diplomats Conference in Turkiyé as it projects the success and development of my dream. I remember during my undergraduate years at the University as a graduate of International Relations, I received the most outstanding “Diplomatic Personality of the Year Award” sponsored by the then Director-General of the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs, Ambassador Bola Akinterinwa.
“Africa should unite in common interest, peace and unity, prosperity, economic stability, quality education, better healthcare system and the most important of all economic growth and development. Together we aspire, together we achieve, together we can make great things happen…For we Will, We Can and We Must. We are the Changemakers,” he said.
Ihunda Eucharia Kejeh, a Diplomat from Nigeria and Simulation Representative of Georgia said: “When I set out to attend the Best Diplomats Simulation at Istanbul Turkiye, I didn’t know what to expect and no it wasn’t exactly zero expectations, it was my anticipation, the thought of being a part of something as big as the United Nations was exhilarating.
“The Best Diplomats Simulation was indeed Diplomacy Beyond Barriers. Meeting people from all over the world, working together, and sharing ideas irrespective of our cultural diversity was a Beauty to behold.”
Pilate Seluka, a Diplomat from Botswana said: “The sight of one of our young men swiping the prestigious title; Best Diplomat was incredible!!! Young and passionate African Leaders are rising and preparing the continent for the 22nd century. Africa is the future of the world.”
Mutsawashe Ngulube, a Diplomat from Zimbabwe said the experience was very eye-opening and really exciting.
“I learned a lot about the skills of negotiation and leadership as I was elected the bloc leader. One key takeaway is the appreciation of being able to connect with different cultured, educated, and skilled people that I was in the presence of, all with different aspects and backgrounds united in one place and open to networking.
“I feel a sense of immense gratitude and achievement as I was able to attain the Best Diplomat award, which is the highest award at the conference. This showed me how much I have grown and learned about being a diplomat, which is a career I consider doing soon.”