On October 24, 2023, SISC hosted the Monarchs Global Ambassador event that marked the culmination of International Month 2023 and celebrated the values of global citizenship and the significance of internationalism.
During the afternoon session, senior high school (SHS) students were given a unique opportunity to serve as global ambassadors for their respective sections and their assigned countries from around the world. As each representative took the stage in their vibrant traditional attire, they introduced themselves and the nations they were representing.
Being a Global Citizen
The event kicked off with the Parade of Nations through the Luxembourg Hall, where SHS Monarchs proudly displayed their section's designated country's colors and raised its flag. Dr. Marie Vic “Avic” Suarez opened the event by emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity and technology in our interconnected world.
“Harmony Beyond Borders: Celebrating Global Citizenship” was the theme of the event and International Month 2023 as a whole, focusing on what makes students true global citizens. Dr. Avic highlighted how advancements in technology allow individuals to gain further insights about the world around them, broadening their horizons beyond geographical boundaries.
To further expand on this, Maria Sofia Magkilat, a distinguished alumna from the SISC Class of 2019, was welcomed to the stage as a guest speaker. Ms. Magkilat pursued the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand at Southville, which ignited her passion for social studies. Ms. Magkilat spoke of the significance of international organizations, emphasizing that these entities are born when nations come together to address pressing global issues. She also underscored that international students play a pivotal role in contributing to the world through both citizenship and cultural awareness; two key ideas which are crucial to the essence behind Monarchs Global Ambassador.
Promoting Global Awareness
Following the speeches, the floor was opened for a question-and-answer segment, which allowed students to engage with the topic of global citizenship. The final candidates were selected based on the videos each section prepared and submitted in the weeks leading up to the event.
The top five ambassadors who proceeded to the final round were Marielle Anne Arevalo of 12-Initiative representing the Netherlands, Anthony Christopher Magcalas of 12-Grit representing Serbia, Daniel Baniequed of 11-Persistence representing Qatar, John Matthew Bryan Cabiles of 12-Diplomacy representing Vatican City, and Czea Margareth Lim of 11-Innovation representing the United Arab Emirates).
Each ambassador was presented with a thought-provoking question from the panel, and their responses reflected their deep understanding of global issues and the principles of the Monarchs Global Ambassador program.
Marielle Arevalo emphasized the challenge of promoting global awareness consistently, suggesting that more students participate in initiatives like International Week and other clubs to stay engaged with global issues.
Daniel Baniequed shared how history lessons allowed him to communicate effectively and understand various cultures. He cited the Chuseok Festival as an example of how learning about different cultures can be both enriching and enlightening.
Anthony Magcalas notably stated that “without history, we would never learn to develop.” His words highlighted the profound impact of history, not only on the advancement of societies but also on the evolution of our individual ways of thinking.\
Czea Lim mentioned that being exposed to various cultures and histories made them more open-minded, emphasizing that every culture contributes to what makes individuals and nations unique.
Matthew Cabiles recounted the impact of the First World War on the world and history, highlighting its role as a catalyst for technological advancements and increased global relations. He urged fellow students to learn about this war, given its profound impact on societies worldwide.
Celebrating Global Citizenship
Upon concluding all the segments of the event, Matthew Cabiles from 12-Diplomacy emerged as the champion among the Global Ambassadors, with Czea Lim from 11-Innovation earning the first runner-up title.
The Monarchs Global Ambassador event was a testament to the power of education in fostering global citizenship and creating a brighter future for all. It served as a reminder that in an increasingly interconnected world, understanding and collaboration among diverse cultures are essential for creating harmony beyond borders.
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