Organised by United Nations Youth New Zealand, the 2025 tour focuses on topics related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including the ethics behind artificial intelligence and equitable access to education. This year, Aroha Abraham, Year 13, is representing New Zealand on this inspiring tour alongside 19 other phenomenal young Kiwi leaders.
This year’s trip spans four countries and five iconic cities: Boston, New York, London, Brussels, and Paris. Among the many highlights, delegates will be privileged to represent New Zealand at the prestigious Columbia Model United Nations Conference and Exhibition (CMUNCE) in New York. Additionally, the tour will include interactive engagements with NGOs, international institutions, and the United Nations headquarters.
Here’s what Aroha had to share:
“We began our journey in Boston, Massachusetts, where we spent three days at Harvard and MIT, discussing sustainable development with world-leading experts. We also explored the Massachusetts State House, went ice skating, and even experienced a snowy day!
Now, in New York, we’re preparing for meetings with various UN bodies and preparing to participate in the Columbia Model United Nations Conference and Exhibition (CMUNCE). Over the next few weeks, we have meetings in London, Brussels, and Paris to look forward to! This tour has been an eye-opening way to connect with global issues and explore how young people can lead the way and create change.”
Aroha encourages everyone to seek out extracurricular opportunities that align with their passions.
“Whether through UN Youth events, school-based initiatives, or other activities, these experiences help you grow, meet incredible people, and contribute to causes that matter to you.”
We are immensely proud of Aroha and the other delegates for their commitment to making a difference on the global stage. Their experiences remind us of the importance of youth leadership in addressing global challenges and driving meaningful change.