Youth talk session is a 2-hour long session that takes place before the official opening ceremony of EIMUN.  It is an integral part of EIMUN’s mission of nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. It provides a space for dialogue, inspiration, and knowledge-sharing; this event equips young individuals with the perspectives needed to address complex global issues. Each year, 2-3 key speakers are invited as per the theme of the session. In EIMUN 2024, three alumni Ms. Reshmi Sunar, Program Assistant at UNFPA Nepal; Sohan Pratap Shrestha, an entrepreneur and Ms. Kushma KC, Executive Director at YTS were invited to share their MUN experiences, learnings, and the impact EIMUN had on their life beyond the conference. 

Sharing her exquisite MUN Journey dating back to 2015, Ms. Reshmi Sunar captivated the audience with her story of overcoming invisible boundaries and forging long-lasting friendships. She discovered EIMUN, unlike any of the local regional MUNs she grew up participating in, and the experience changed the trajectory of her life. Bringing the audience back to the present, she said “Look around you, trust me, when you leave this room on the 5th day, you will be crying.” Ms. Reshmi shared the stereotypes and preconceived notions we internalize about others before truly knowing them. She emphasized that delegates could come with an open mind, free from these biases. EIMUN provides a space to forge unexpected friendships and connect with people from diverse backgrounds, transcending those invisible boundaries.

Mr. Sohan Pratap Shrestha shared his remarkable transformation from an introverted student who joined EIMUN in 2016 to a successful entrepreneur. Initially unable to initiate small talk, his participation in EIMUN instilled in him a zeal to do more. By 2018, he had started his own business, crediting EIMUN for preparing him not just for the Model UN, but for the realities of life. His story truly resonated with many of the audience who saw a reflection of their struggles and aspirations in his journey.

Ms. Kushma K.C., the Executive Director of the Youth Thinkers’ Society, shared her journey back to YTS. Starting as a casual participant in MUN workshops and ToT programs, she eventually led the 2018 EIMUN Secretariat, honing her communication and leadership skills. During COVID-19, she distanced herself from her social networks but re-emerged post-pandemic, taking this step to give back to her community. Having grown up with YTS, her story highlights the enduring impact of EIMUN on its participants and the enrichment of her social networks and personal development.

The session also featured Ms. Sneha Shrestha, Communications and Sustainability Coordinator for Coca-Cola, who highlighted the company’s commitment to empowering youth through such initiatives. YTS and Coca-cola have forged a sustainable partnership through EIMUN committed to empowering and uplifting emerging youth leaders. The Youth Talk Session reinforced the belief that with hope and determination, the future is indeed bright.

All in all, the Youth Talk Session serves as a platform for personal growth, fostering a sense of responsibility and empowerment among the youth to create positive change in their communities and beyond.