LEBMUN'25
- Welcome Letter
- MUN Advisors
- Core Team
- Secretariat
- Online Registration
- Committee Resources
- Delegate Resources
- Awards
Welcome Letter
Dear advisors, delegates, and esteemed guests,
It is truly an honor to welcome you all to the 21st installment of ACS's annual Model United Nations conference, LEBMUN '25, proudly hosted on the campus of the American Community School Beirut. This year's conference will take place from February 28 to March 2, 2025.
As we reflect on the journey of LEBMUN, we are reminded of the resilience and excellence that have defined our program for over two decades. What began within the four walls of our classrooms has grown into a beacon of diplomacy, professionalism, and collaboration. This year, LEBMUN returns to its roots, as we host the conference on the ACS campus for a dynamic, campus-wide experience. This year's LEBMUN Core Team along with our administration at ACS are deeply committed to ensuring the continued success of this tradition and supporting the transformative experiences it provides to our delegates.
This school year has been a challenging one for all of us. Yet, it is in times of adversity that the strength of our community shines brightest. The ability to come together, adapt, and rise above challenges exemplifies the very principles we uphold in MUN: diplomacy, problem-solving, and collaboration. It is this spirit of resilience and hope that inspired the theme of this year's conference, “Together Towards Tomorrow.” This theme reflects our collective determination to not only navigate today's challenges but also to uphold the LEBMUN mission of building a brighter future for tomorrow.
As we gather for this year's conference, we do so in the spirit of Beirut - resilient, vibrant, and forward-looking. As always, we aim to create an atmosphere synonymous with LEBMUN where initiative is cherished, delegates think critically about the world's most pressing issues, and shape solutions “Together Towards Tomorrow!”
For any queries, please do not hesitate to contact us at lebmun@acs.edu.lb.
We look forward to welcoming you to LEBMUN '25 and celebrating this journey of resilience, excellence, and collaboration with all of you.
Warm regards,
John Ziyadeh
Secretary General of LEBMUN '25
MUN Advisors
MUN Advisors
Rima Zein
I am the Lebanese Baccalaureate Coordinator. First, I started teaching History for the IB and ADP, and now I'm teaching IB Global Politics in the high school. I started my teaching career 30 years ago as a history teacher in the Lebanese Program. I've been the MUN Director for the high school for 18 years, and I've attended many MUN conferences inside and outside Lebanon, where I gained a lot of experience. I'm looking forward to this year's conference, which I hope will be successful as usual. Looking forward to seeing you all.
Claire Chalhoub
I am the Dean of Students in the high school. I've been an English and Social Studies teacher, as well as the head of the department in the middle and high schools. I started my teaching career 22 years ago as a homeroom teacher in Grade 3. I've been an MUN Director in the middle school for the past seven years and an advisor in the high school for the past four. I've attended many MUN conferences both inside and outside the country and have had the privilege of seeing students grow from shy participants to full-blown leaders and debaters during their time at ACS MUN. There is nothing like the spirit of collaboration, open-mindedness, and inclusivity that exists year after year in our program.
Akram Abdallah
I am a Math teacher at ACS. I have served as a co-advisor to the MUN Club for about 14 years now. During this time, I contributed to the training and learning of students about UN protocols and practices, and I guided students in discussions about international conflicts and global issues. Over the years, I led small groups of students to local and international conferences, where they experienced diverse perspectives and gained a global understanding of other cultures. Being part of the MUN Core Team, which is made up of advisors and student leaders, we collaborated and planned successful annual LEBMUN conferences. Much of my personal growth and character is owed to my experiences in this club. To a large extent, the club helped me acknowledge multiple perspectives and develop skills in communication, public speaking, improvisation, and more. I look forward to meeting all of you, and I wish you a successful MUN experience.
Core Team
Core Team
Secretary-General | John Paul Ziyadeh
Hello, everyone! My name is John Ziyadeh, and I can't begin to express how much of an honor it is to serve as this year's LEBMUN Secretary-General. I've been an MUNer at ACS for six years now, and I'm looking to cap off my LEBMUN career by doing everything I can to make this conference an unforgettable one. As cliché as it may sound, I do believe in the transformative power that MUN can have in inspiring youth, and I certainly owe a lot of my personal development to the opportunities that MUN has given me. I am eager to witness the creativity, critical thinking, and unique perspectives that each of you has that will lead us “Together Towards Tomorrow!” for LEBMUN '25!
Deputy Secretary-General | Ryan Khayat
Hello, MUNers! My name is Ryan Khayat, and I'm a senior at ACS. I am honored to serve as this year's Deputy Secretary-General for LEBMUN '25. After attending several MUN conferences and chairing a few, I'm excited to be here for what will be my seventh LEBMUN conference — and without a doubt, the most meaningful one to me. MUN has had an incredible impact on me, and I can't wait to see how it will shape you too. Outside of MUN, I love spending time with my friends and family, as well as playing sports. I'm also passionate about mind games like chess and enjoy taking on challenging tasks and hobbies. I'm really looking forward to meeting all of you. Let's make this year's conference a memorable one!
Chief of Staff | Afzal Makhmudov
Hey, I'm Afzal Makhmudov, a junior at ACS with over five years in MUN. I've mastered the art of negotiation and developed a knack for global issues. When I'm not in the conference room, you'll find me on the basketball court getting some shots in, playing badminton, or hitting the gym to stay active. A little-known fact about me? I've been embracing the stage through theater for four years. I'm all about becoming that insightful and perspicacious person everyone looks up to. I am excited to be your Chief of Staff for this conference.
Liaison Officer | Yara Chaptini
Hi, everyone! I'm Yara Chaptini, a senior at ACS, and I'm excited to serve as this year's Liaison Officer. After having attended and chaired numerous conferences, I am grateful for everything this club has taught me over the past four years. The Core Team and I are eager to make this year's conference memorable and are excited to share this moment with you all. Outside of my commitment to MUN, I spend my time playing football and hanging out with family and friends. I look forward to meeting you all and making LEBMUN '25 an unforgettable experience.
Secretariat
- General Assembly
- Human Rights Council
- Middle Eastern Commission
- Economic and Social Council
- UN Office on Drugs and Crime
- Security Council
- International Court of Justice
- Crisis Committee
General Assembly
President: Sahar Kotob
Hello! I hope you're just as excited about LEBMUN as I am! I'm Sahar, the president of this year's GA committee in LEBMUN '25. I'm in my senior year of high school, with a fair amount of experience in MUN. I began my journey as a delegate in GA at LEBMUN, and I'm concluding my journey as the president of GA in LEBMUN. This journey has been a rollercoaster that I'd relive in a heartbeat! I've been welcomed with a big heart and a warm embrace, and I'd like to pass this on to you, delegates! I'm looking forward to meeting you all!
Vice President: Noha Itani
Hello! My name is Noha Itani, and I will be your General Assembly Vice President this year. I've been involved with MUN for six years, and I am a junior at ACS Beirut. I was the chair of HRC last year and had a great experience. I hope I can be of great assistance to you all. I took on the role of VP mainly to support and motivate other delegates to pursue and develop their MUN careers. It is my sincere goal that participants at LEBMUN '25 will be enthusiastic, eager, and involved, fostering fruitful discussions, especially for those attending for the first time. Looking forward to sharing this experience with you all!
Chair: Yara El Khateeb
Hello, MUN'ers! My name is Yara El Khateeb, a DP1 IB student at Rafic Hariri High School, and I'm honored to serve as a Chair in the General Assembly at LEBMUN 2025. With several MUN conferences and multiple diplomacy awards under my belt, I'm passionate about fostering inclusion and ensuring every delegate's voice is heard. Outside of MUN, I stay active through karate and skating, pursue new hobbies like learning the guitar, and apply my coding skills to creative projects. I'm thrilled to meet you all, guide dynamic debates, and make this conference an unforgettable experience for everyone involved!
Human Rights Council
President: Maya Tfayli
Hello everyone! I'm Maya Tfayli, a sophomore at ACS Beirut, and I'm thrilled to be the president of the Human Rights Committee at LEBMUN '25! This year marks my fifth LEBMUN conference and my second year as a chair. Outside of MUN, I enjoy playing sports and spending time with my friends and family. I'm excited to meet all of you and see you engaging in debates. My goal is to make this year's HRC Council as memorable as possible. Looking forward to seeing you all!
Vice President: Gheed Sharif
Hello everyone! My name is Gheed Sharif, and I am a junior at RHHS. I'm excited to be the Vice President of HRC for this year's LEBMUN. As Vice President, I promise to lead with enthusiasm and fairness. My MUN journey taught me two things: diplomacy is key, and caffeine is life during long sessions. Besides MUN, I enjoy hanging out with my friends, reading, swimming, and listening to Gracie Abrams. I'm a summer person stuck in the winter season. I love watching Gossip Girl, and I love eating gummy worms coated with sugar, but I hate chocolates with fruit flavors. Can't wait to meet all of you!
Chair: Ines Adam
My name is Ines Adam, and I am currently in 9th grade. I am extremely thrilled and couldn't be more honored to participate in this year's LEBMUN conference. Although it is an event that takes place in school, the cooperation and teamwork involved shape us into better adults who could change and impact the world one day, improving humanity. I spend my time partaking in a variety of extracurricular activities and sports. Swimming, volleyball, tennis, and aerial yoga are just some ways in which I enjoy spending my time. My happiness thrives on helping others and spreading positivity. I believe in kindness and seek to positively impact my school community.
Middle Eastern Commission
President: Yusur Al-Dabag
Hello everyone! My name is Yusur Al-Dabag, and I am a 10th grader at ACS Beirut. I am honored to be the President of the Middle Eastern Commission for LEBMUN '25. This is my second year attending LEBMUN and my second time chairing. Last year, I made great memories during LEBMUN, and I am very excited to make many new ones this year with all of you. Aside from MUN, I love being around family and friends, I love shopping, I enjoy playing basketball, and I am a very curious and hardworking person. I can't wait to meet all of you and to make your experience at LEBMUN the best you have ever had. See you all very soon!
Vice President: Houssein Balouza
Hello! I am Houssein Balouza, a recent addition to the MUN roster of hardworking individuals. MUN was the first grand event I attended and the very thing that changed my life forever. It holds a deep place in my heart. Having attended three conferences and preparing for my fourth within two years, I have experienced MUN in multiple ways, including as a chair and a photographer. Now, I'm more than excited to be the Vice President of the MEC council.
Chair: Youssef Khattab
Hey guys, my name is Youssef Khattab. I'm a senior at HHHS, and I'm so excited to meet everyone and start this MUN journey with you. I started my MUN journey back in 6th grade, and since then, I have accomplished all that I could want to when it comes to MUN—even becoming the SG in my school! My goal in MUN is to have people experience the same fun vibe and culture that LEBMUN and other conferences offer and to make people enjoy MUN above anything else. I really love to watch movies; my favorites are Eat, Pray, Love, Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind, and 13 Going on 30, to name a few. I'm also an incredibly sporty person—I play basketball, go to the gym, and really enjoy swimming. I can't wait to meet everyone and hear everything about you guys!
Economic and Social Council
President: Jasmin Zabadne
Hello! My name is Jasmin Zabadne. I'm a senior at the American Community School of Beirut. Being a member of LEBMUN '25 and ECOSOC is an honor! I have an intense passion for debating and anything related to politics! I've spent seven years in MUN, and this is my second year chairing. During my free time, I enjoy playing volleyball and painting. I can't wait to be your President for ECOSOC and meet you all. I'm looking forward to spending the greatest time with you during LEBMUN '25!
Vice President: Abdallah Takkouch
Hello everyone! I'm Abdallah, a senior at ACS, and I'm excited to be your Vice President in the ECOSOC committee for LEBMUN '25. As an IB Higher Level Economics student, I believe my skills will be put to good use while chairing this council. Outside of MUN and academia, I like to immerse myself in thought-provoking activities like chess and cubing. I also enjoy working out, swimming, and playing video games. I can't wait to meet you all—here's to a great conference this year!
Chair: Karen El Hage
Hello everyone! My name is Karen El Hage. I am a 10th grader at ACS Beirut, and I am honored to serve as Chair of ECOSOC for this year's LEBMUN conference. This is my fifth year in MUN and my second time chairing. I'm excited to see what this conference offers! Outside of MUN, I spend time with my family and friends. MUN is undoubtedly one of my favorite extracurriculars—the memories and connections formed are irreplaceable. I hope to make this conference one to remember, and I look forward to meeting all of you. See you all in February!
UN Office on Drugs and Crime
President: Ayla Hajj Moussa
Hello! I'm Ayla Hajj Moussa, an 11th grader at ACS with three years of experience in MUN and the honor of serving as the President of UNODC. My passion for politics and global issues, combined with my love for traveling, fuels my enthusiasm for MUN as a platform to connect with diverse perspectives. I strive to be well-rounded, balancing my interests in finance, international affairs, and engineering while staying active on the basketball court. I'm excited to lead and contribute to this year's conference, making it a memorable and impactful experience for everyone. Excited to see you all!
Vice President: Chaden Abou Zeinab
Hello! My name is Chaden, and I'm thrilled to serve as the Vice President of UNODC at LEBMUN '25. From my early days in MUN as an eager delegate to my more seasoned experiences, I have unveiled my passion for dissecting global issues through diplomacy. Through it all, I've learned the power of collaboration, the art of negotiation, and the importance of advocacy in making a change that resonates. Beyond MUN, I enjoy experimenting with innovative ideas in science and creating visual art through painting. I look forward to an exciting conference and to making this experience transformative for us all!
Chair: Rani Bakka
Hi everyone! I'm Rani Bakka, a 10th-grade student at ACS Beirut, and I am thrilled to be your Chair for UNODC in LEBMUN '25! This year marks my fifth year in MUN. Through these years, I have made friends and learned lessons, values, and skills that I won't forget, as well as developed a passion for debating and for MUN. Apart from MUN, I enjoy playing basketball and spending time with my family and friends. I am looking forward to meeting you all and making this conference an unforgettable experience!
Security Council
President: Andy Economakis
Welcome to LEBMUN 2025! My name is Andy Economakis, and I am currently a sophomore at ACS Beirut. I am thrilled to be this year's President of the LEBMUN Security Council. As President, I am excited to bring my five years of MUN experience to support my fellow chairs and delegates. Beyond MUN and debating, my interests lie in sports and STEM activities. I am ready and enthusiastic to have an incredible LEBMUN conference this year.
Vice President: Ilhaam Shah
Hello everyone. Some see me as a friend, a mentor, or a teammate, but above all, I am a curious and creative individual. My passion for MUN sparked when I joined LEBMUN for the first time, inspiring me to participate in other conferences and broaden my perspective. Beyond MUN, I express my creativity through drawing, reading books, and playing sports. I am a hardworking and empathetic individual who finds joy in supporting others and fostering meaningful connections. My experiences in MUN and beyond reflect my dedication to growth, teamwork, and making a positive impact.
Chair: Yasmina Kantari
Hello everyone, my name is Yasmina Kantari. I'm 15 years old, in 10th grade, and I go to ACS. This is my fourth year participating in LEBMUN, but it's my first year coaching and chairing. I have had a lot of fun so far and can't wait to learn and know more about this experience. Personally, I am a very outgoing and open-minded person, and I hope that I can make LEBMUN '25 memorable and fun for you this year. I can't wait to meet you all—see you soon!
International Court of Justice
President: Omar Ghalayini
Hello! I'm Omar Ghalayini (or OG), a senior at ACS, and I'm delighted to serve as your ICJ President! Since discovering MUN through LEBMUN '23, I've immersed myself in Speech—founding clubs, creating conferences, and competing in MUN, Debate, and Mock Trial. I aim to use my experience to make this activity as enjoyable for you as it is for me! Besides Speech, I enjoy engaging in politics, collecting lapel pins, listening to music, watching combat sports, and spending time with friends. I'm excited to meet you all; there is no other way I'd rather end my high school career!
Deputy President: Dihaan Patra
Hey, I'm Dihaan! I'm so eager to be a part of the ICJ team this year and make this court the best one yet. I've always loved the past three years of MUN, with the highlight each time being this conference. From tackling complex debates to surviving the chaos of ICJ last year—I've developed a love for diplomacy, international law, and keeping things organized (mostly). Outside of MUN, you'll find me lost in a good movie or on the badminton court, trying to improve some minor shots. I can't wait to help create an engaging and memorable ICJ experience for everyone involved this year—no objections.
Registrar: Valeria Bcassini
Hey everyone! I'm Valeria Bcassini, a student at Brummana High School, and I'm excited to be part of this year's ICJ team! From my first MUN debate about burgers and pizzas to winning multiple awards and chairing various conferences, I am honored to take on the role of your Registrar. I'm truly enthusiastic about MUN and excited to share my passion for it with all of you! Outside of MUN, I love capturing the world through my lens, dancing, and writing poems. Can't wait to meet all of you!
Crisis Committee
President: John Cherfane
Hello, my name is John Cherfane, and I am happy to be your Crisis Committee President for this upcoming LEBMUN, regardless of the recent events. I have been in MUN for a few years now, and every year, I feel like I have learned something new. I find that MUN isn't only about shouting at the other person and being close-minded but about being persuasive and open to productive discussions. That is why I am interested in MUN and hope you will join me. Let this be an eventful and prosperous LEBMUN!
Deputy Crisis Director: Yara Hanafi
Hey, I'm Yara Hanafi, a junior at ACS Beirut. As an aspiring future diplomat, MUN has always been a passion of mine. Where you're most likely going to find me is either out with my friends or at the gym. A fun fact about me is that I'm French-Lebanese, and I am fluent in three languages while learning two others. I am very pleased and excited to serve as the Deputy Crisis Director of the Crisis Committee in LEBMUN '25.
Chair: Sophie Zakkak
My name is Sophie Zakkak, and I am honored to serve as the Chair of the Crisis Committee for this conference. As the Secretary-General of Sagesse High School's Model United Nations program and a dedicated MUN member for the past six years, I have developed a deep passion for diplomacy, critical thinking, and leadership. Guiding delegates through the fast-paced dynamics of the committee's proceedings is a responsibility I take with great enthusiasm. I am truly looking forward to a successful LEBMUN '25 conference filled with meaningful debate, innovative solutions, and impactful collaboration!
Crisis Team: Talia Jamal
Hello, my name is Talia Jamal! I am an 11th grader at Rafic Hariri High School, and I am so excited to be a member of the Crisis Team. MUN is an endeavor I am highly dedicated to, for it has significantly enhanced my creativity, deepened my understanding of political issues, and fostered long-lasting friendships. Outside of MUN, I have a profound interest in writing, and I aspire to be a successful author in the future. I also enjoy practicing the guitar, reading, socializing, and spending quality time with my cats. Can't wait to meet you all!
Crisis Team: Emma Moarbes
My name is Emma, and I've been in MUN for five years. Over the course of these years, I've had the opportunity to participate in local conferences that span across the entirety of Lebanon and travel to conferences in New York and Amsterdam, gaining valuable experiences that shaped my approach to diplomacy. Attending LEBMUN as a delegate exposed me to so many aspects of conferences that involve more than just debate but collaboration too. As part of the Crisis Team this year, I look forward to seeing how each of you navigates through ever-changing scenarios, overcomes obstacles, and creates solutions.
Online Registration
Committee Resources
Delegate Resources
Code of Conduct
Delegates and Chairs will be expected to wear appropriate formal business attire throughout the duration of the conference.
Formal business attire includes:
- Blouses, button-ups, solid and formal tops
- Suits, blazers
- Dresses, skirts, suit pants
- Tie or bow tie (no tie is acceptable)
- Formal / non-athletic footwear
Formal business attire does not include:
- T-shirts, athletic wear
- Sweaters, novelty jackets
- Sweatpants, leggings, jeans
- Ball caps, hats, and, yes, sunglasses
- Sneakers, tennis shoes
Delegates are expected to be seated in their committees five minutes before the session start time dictated by the conference schedule. Tardiness during the day will not be tolerated, but in the event of delays (e.g. late arrival to the venue in the morning), delegates are expected to inform their chairs in a timely manner via note-passing. Absences for urgent matters may be excused if reported to the chairs and advisors as early as possible.
We strongly urge consistent participation from all delegates (regardless of their level) in order to maintain a fruitful and fun debate for all. Kindly note that consistent participation is expected from all delegates. Delegates must be prepared to be randomly called upon if a lack of participation is noted.