Meet the Executive Team Behind THIMUN Singapore 2026
Before the first placard was raised or the first resolution debated, months of preparation had already taken place behind the scenes.
THIMUN Singapore 2026 has brought delegates together for discussions, diplomacy, and collaboration. Behind the conference is an Executive Team of four students helping coordinate the experience. But what inspired them to take on these roles, and what do they hope delegates will take away from the conference? We spoke with the team to find out.
By Isabella Zhu
Photography by Maisha Lamshane
Philip Owen Gunadi
Secretary-General
From chairing four conferences to leading press teams and serving as Secretary-General at his school’s MUN conference, Owen brings extensive leadership experience to THIMUN Singapore. His decision to apply was inspired by attending last year’s conference, where he saw “how much the students in charge shaped the whole experience” and hoped to provide that same opportunity for others.
With THIMUN Singapore being larger than any conference he has previously led, Owen recognizes the challenge of coordinating numerous committees and Student Officers. To manage this, the Secretariat has divided committee oversight among its members, with Owen regularly checking in to maintain consistency.
At the opening ceremony, after months of preparation, Owen encourages first-time delegates to “speak early, because your first speech is the hardest and every speech after gets easier.”
Megan Roca
President of the General Assembly
Having attended THIMUN conferences in both Singapore and The Hague, Megan was inspired by previous Secretariat teams to contribute to a conference that has played an important role throughout her MUN journey.
What excites her most is watching delegates engage with pressing global issues and witnessing their enthusiasm for creating change.
While coordinating such a large conference requires multitasking and collaboration, Megan hopes delegates leave with greater confidence and meaningful connections. Her advice is to “speak with conviction in the good ideas that you convey,” emphasizing that confidence comes more naturally when delegates focus on their passions rather than flawless delivery.
Charlotte Chen Wang
Deputy Secretary General
Having experienced MUN as both a delegate and a chair, Charlotte wanted to contribute to the preparation that makes these experiences possible, particularly after enjoying helping delegates develop their ideas and confidence.
After months of working with Chairs online, she is especially excited about “seeing the committees come to life” and working together in person.
Although unexpected challenges may arise during the conference, Charlotte believes that having a dependable team will help her navigate them.
For first-time delegates, she emphasizes that “it’s okay to make mistakes” and encourages them to take the first step, whether by delivering a speech, asking a Point of Information, or proposing an amendment.
Naissha Makhija
Deputy Secretary General
For Naissha, THIMUN has been an important part of her MUN journey, filled with friendships and unforgettable memories. When the opportunity to join the Executive Team arose, she “applied without hesitation,” hoping to create similarly meaningful experiences for others.
This year, she enjoys meeting new delegates, reconnecting with familiar faces, and exploring the conference’s theme. While coordinating with people from different backgrounds and working styles presents challenges, Naissha believes open communication and a willingness to understand different perspectives are essential.
Her message to first-time delegates is a reminder that “we were all in the same position: first-timers trying to find our footing.” She encourages everyone to step outside their comfort zones, build friendships, and embrace the experience.
Despite their different experiences, all four members share a commitment to making THIMUN Singapore a place where delegates can challenge themselves, exchange perspectives, and build lasting connections.
With committee sessions underway, the Executive Team’s months of preparation are being put into practice. As the conference continues, their shared hope is that delegates leave not only with new perspectives on global issues, but also with greater confidence in their own voices.
