Columbia International College (CIC) is proud to announce that Grade 12 student Chantal Kasekende has received an exclusive invitation to the inaugural Harvard Model United Nations Canada (HarvardMUN Canada) Tournament of Champions, set to take place in Toronto this May.
This prestigious selection follows Chantal’s historic performance at the University of Toronto Model United Nations (UTMUN) conference this past January. Making a powerful debut in the school’s first-ever appearance at the national event, Chantal commanded the floor to earn the conference’s highest individual honor: Best Delegate.
From Uganda to the Global Stage
Originally from Uganda, Chantal brought a wealth of international experience to the team. Having participated in MUN and TEDx talks in Uganda in 2024, she arrived at CIC with a fierce passion for advocacy and women’s rights.
“Where I grew up, the environment was often male-dominated,” Chantal shared. “I was smart, but I was often put down or bullied by boys. They told me I couldn’t be smart, and for a long time, I tried to avoid standing out. Coming to CIC changed that. In this diverse environment, I feel like I can actually make a difference.”
A Champion for Equality
During the UTMUN conference, Chantal tackled the complex issue of eliminating discrimination against women. Her preparation involved extensive research on global crises, including the war in Ukraine and the unique challenges faced by Indigenous women in Canada.
“I’ve opened my cultural perception here at CIC,” she noted. “I learned about issues I didn’t know firsthand, like those facing Indigenous communities. It has deepened my understanding of what it means to be a global citizen.”
Chantal’s passion for equity extends into her academic interests. A lover of Chemistry, she plans to study Biochemistry with a specific focus on women’s health. “It’s a fact that many medical tests are conducted primarily on men, leaving women out. I want to focus on the treatment of diseases specifically as they affect women.”
Leading the Future Change-Makers
The CIC MUN team, consisting of dozens of active members, meets every Wednesday to sharpen their debate and research skills. As Head Delegate, Chantal plays a pivotal role in mentoring her peers—from structuring speeches to refining position papers—while serving as a vital link between the instructors and the delegation.”
“As Head Delegate, I help my peer structure their speeches and write position papers,” Chantal said. “CIC MUN is a special club because you aren’t just talking; you are learning how to be a future change-maker. It’s about confidence—knowing that it’s not just what you say, but how you say it. It’s about researching, collaborating, and learning when to compromise.”
A Vision for Inclusion
When asked what she would do if she were Prime Minister of Canada, Chantal’s vision was clear:
“I would improve inclusion in the workplace by implementing laws that require at least 20% to 30% representation of women in professions. I would ensure workplaces are checked for accessibility for disabled people and that there is true representation for Indigenous peoples and various cultures. Everyone should feel comfortable and celebrated.”
About HarvardMUN Canada
As Canada’s new premier Model United Nations conference, HarvardMUN Canada is offering a MUN experience like no other.
This year, HarvardMUN is excited to not only provide an exceptional selection of traditional MUN committees, but also pilot the Tournament of Champions—the ultimate MUN showdown at the highest competitive tier.
