October 2023

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A Qatari Diplomat in the making

Since her early years, Shoug Khozestani has been fascinated by global affairs, and it was when she was in sixth grade that she found the perfect platform for her passion – her school’s participation in the Model United Nations (MUN). Now, as a student in Qatar Foundation’s school Qatar Academy Doha, Shoug is working on her dream of becoming a representative for her country on the diplomatic stage.

Q Life had the opportunity to sit down with Shoug to delve into her experiences.

 

What first inspired you to take part in The Hague International Model United Nations (THIMUN) and how long have you been involved for?

I first learned about THIMUN through the Qatar Academy Doha Model UN after-school club.

When I joined THIMUN Qatar, I was immediately captivated. It was for me and many other students an opportunity to start creating change on a small scale, and eventually develop our critical analysis and leadership skills to be in a valued position to enact real change within the world.

I’ve been taking part in THIMUN Qatar since 2019, and participating at an executive level since 2021.

What is the most important skill that THIMUN Qatar has taught you?

The list of things I have learned through THIMUN Qatar is endless. My leadership, communication, learning, and problem-solving skills have been put to the test time and time again, which has shaped me into an adaptable, open-minded thinker – and above all, a leader.

What has been your favourite memory since taking part in THIMUN Qatar?

The final executive debrief at THIMUN Qatar 2023 was a particular highlight for me.

The last day of the three-day THIMUN Qatar conference means a lot to us emotionally and mentally. This year, I remember, all of us, huddled in a room, surrounded by empty coffee cups, after many hours of restlessness and three long days, we collectively let out a sigh of relief as the conference ended. We looked around quietly taking in the scene. There were feelings of pride, happiness, confusion even, joy, and acknowledging finality – a sweet end.

This moment is very vivid in our minds, and will probably stay with us forever. It’s a reminder of our determination, hard work, effort, and commitment – everything that THIMUN Qatar is about.

How has Qatar Foundation provided you with opportunities to promote youth involvement in global affairs?

Qatar Foundation provides a lot of opportunities for the youth in Qatar to build a sense of community that draws from global affairs, interconnectedness, and unity. THIMUN Qatar is only one of the many initiatives developed to connect Qatar’s youth to different people around the world.

Personally, I’ve also had the chance to represent Qatar Foundation in the TED 2022 conference in Vancouver, Canada. This was an effort to promote TEDinArabic – an initiative launched by Qatar Foundation to share ideas emanating from the Arab world.

To conclude, how would you describe your experience in three words?

Awakening. Electric. Worthwhile.