IPSMUN Inspires ISG Jubail Students to Lead With Curiosity

ISG Jubail students recently participated in the IPSMUN conference hosted by International Programs School (IPS) in Khobar alongside Mr. Neal Bourn. The event brought together delegates from schools across the region for a weekend of debate, collaboration and creative problem solving. For ISG Jubail students, the conference was an opportunity to step into new perspectives, build confidence and connect with peers who share the same curiosity about the world.

This year’s theme, “The Renaissance: Renewal, Transformation and Forward-Thinking Global Leadership,” encouraged delegates to explore global issues through fresh perspectives while building skills in diplomacy, collaboration and leadership.

One student described the experience as “incredible and fun,” explaining that it encouraged delegates to think about how history and art help people understand the systems around them. The student shared that the theme created a refreshing change of pace from the usual focus on current global issues. “Normally, the focus is on current topics, but this conference helped us step back and reflect on humanity’s past actions,” the student said. For many ISG Jubail delegates, the creativity of the conference helped make the learning feel personal, engaging and memorable.

Several students were placed in the crisis committee, a format known for challenging delegates to think quickly and adapt in real time. In this committee, students do not learn their topic or delegation until the opening ceremony, which adds an extra layer of excitement and pressure. One student shared, “ I was in the crisis committee, which is different from other committees because we’re unaware of our topic and delegations until the opening ceremony.” The student explained that the surprise element is why the crisis committee is often considered the most demanding committee. “It’s called a crisis because the issue at hand is something that has to be immediately dealt with and we have to think on our feet,” she said.

Crisis delegates were given a scenario inspired by real world settings, then guided into a fictional situation that required creativity, strategy and collaboration. One student described the topic as “nerve-racking” at first, then quickly became invested once the story was revealed. The imaginative nature of the committee reminded students that discussions can be serious and academic while still leaving room for storytelling and originality.

For another delegate, Crisis also brought a personal challenge that pushed her beyond her comfort zone. She described being assigned a character who was “intimidating and mean,” which felt completely different from her real personality. “My impromptu skills and acting skills were definitely challenged,” the student said. Experiences like this helped students strengthen public speaking, quick decision making and the ability to stay composed under pressure, all skills that extend far beyond the conference room.

Across committees, students spoke about the strong sense of community that forms at events, especially when delegates meet others outside their usual school circles. One student reflected on how meaningful it was to connect with students from across Saudi Arabia. “I met a lot of new people and also reconnected with delegates I’ve seen in other conferences,” he shared. The student added that this aspect of IPSMUN helps delegates develop social skills and build networks beyond their own campus. Even without an award, the student described the experience as deeply rewarding, saying, “Even if I did not win any awards, the experience itself was enough of an award.”

Another ISG Jubail student shared a similar feeling of connection and belonging, especially as one of the few delegates attending from Jubail. “It was pretty fun, I met a lot of new people, everyone was very welcoming.” That welcoming atmosphere helped students feel confident participating, even when they were stepping into a new environment with unfamiliar peers.

Students also reflected on how sessions like this continue to build long term academic and personal skills. One delegate explained that the conference strengthened her ability to research, speak publicly and advocate for her ideas. “I feel it helps me in my research skills along with public speaking and confidence because it really challenges me to speak up and be more out there than I would usually be comfortable with,” she shared. 

Another student, who served in a historical council focused on the 15th century, appreciated the chance to explore the past through modern thinking. “The topics were fairly interesting and very creative,” the student said. “It was nice to talk about the topic from a modern perspective.”

For many ISG Jubail delegates, this event stood out as a highlight in their journey. One student shared, “It was incredible. I’ve been to 7 conferences so far and this was my favorite.” That sense of excitement, combined with the learning, friendships and creative challenges, made the conference a meaningful experience for the team. ISG Jubail is proud of the students who represented the school with curiosity, courage and thoughtful engagement. We look forward to supporting their continued growth.