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28 June 2024, New York, United States - The Global Diplomacy Initiative (GDI) had its Closing Ceremony at the United Nations Headquarters. Hosted by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) New York Office, the event celebrated the achievements of the Spring 2024 Cohort of GDI Graduates. The GDI Programme offers a unique learning experience for students and professionals, enabling them to deepen their understanding of the United Nations and its operations. Participants have the chance to gain knowledge and insights from experts and diplomats in the field.
UNITAR was thrilled to host both faculty members and students at the hybrid-format closing ceremony. The ceremony saw five fellows flying into New York from their respective countries to join in person, while seven fellows joined online.
Distinguished guests who attended the closing ceremony in person included: Ms Larisa Schelkin, CEO & Founder of Global STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Education Center, Inc. and President of Global STEM Education Consulting, LLC; Dr Michael Jabot, from the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at The State University of New York at Fredonia; Dr. Angel Angelov, Consul General to Bulgaria in New York and Former Deputy Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the UN and UNITAR Facilitator; H.E. Mr. Laszlo Molnar, Senior Lecturer of Clinical Practice at the Department of Professional Security Studies of New Jersey City University and Former Permanent Representative of Hungary to the United Nations; and Ms. Michele Clarke-Ceres, Co-Founder/President of WorldCeres Inc., Executive Career Coach, Soft Skills Trainer, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Consultant. Additionally, H.E. Dr Yuriy Sergeyev, Former Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the United Nations; Ms Jelena Pia-Comella, Former Deputy Permanent Representative of the Principality of Andorra to the United Nations, Senior Consultant; Dr Colleen Thouez, Senior Fellow at the New School’s Zolberg Institute, Director of the Global Cities Portfolio at the Zolberg Institute; Mr. Jochen De Vylder, Human Rights Officer, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, New York Office; and Ms. Cristina Serban, Associate Officer at the United Nations Secretariat.
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During the ceremony, several GDI Fellows shared their experiences and the benefits they gained from the programme over the past few months. They highlighted the value of interacting with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and varying levels of expertise. Mr. Marco A. Suazo opened the ceremony with welcoming remarks, expressing his gratitude for the collective efforts, time, and success achieved during the GDI Spring 2024 programme.
The distinguished facilitators expressed their appreciation for the student's active participation and engaging discussions throughout the programme. Additionally, the students shared their personal experiences, expressing their fascination with the opportunity to tour the United Nations and how the programme provided them with a clearer vision of the diplomatic environment.
The Global Diplomacy Initiative's Spring 2024 Closing Ceremony was a remarkable event, summarizing the achievements and transformative experiences of the GDI graduates. UNITAR remains dedicated to creating a supportive learning environment that ensures the success of future diplomats.
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