Social, Cultural, and Humanitarian Committee (SOCHUM)
Founded in 1945, the Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural Committee (SOCHUM) is one of six General Assemblies of the United Nations. All 193 member states of the UN are part of SOCHUM and the committee focuses heavily on humanitarian and cultural issues. Since adopting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, SOCHUM’s mandate has been to improve human welfare and uphold human rights across the globe. During this process, SOCHUM has facilitated dialogue between nations and organizations on potential solutions to ensure equality across the globe. Today, they play a pivotal role in resolving humanitarian issues such as cultural persecution and refugee crisis.
SOCHUM offers the traditional Model United Nations experience for delegates of all experience levels. Position papers are not mandatory, but highly recommended. However, to be considered for an award, delegates must submit one by 11:59PM PST on November 25, 2023, or November 17, 2023 for feedback from the dais team. Please read about Horizons’ Position Paper policy, which can be found below. Questions, inquiries, and position papers for this committee can be emailed to horizons-sochum@cahsmun.org.
Andreas Zhang | Director
Embarking on his junior year at St George’s School, Andreas is honoured to serve as a director of SOCHUM at Horizons 2023. Ever since making his first speech at an online conference 3 years ago, Andreas has been completely immersed in the atmosphere of Model UN. Whether it is intense placard raising or dinner out with friends, Model UN has created some of Andreas’s most treasured memories. Outside of Model UN, Andreas can be seen attempting to smash a badminton birdy across the net, scratching his head over numerous 3D design files, and watching his drumsticks fly out of his hands while playing. Andreas wishes the delegates all the best in their preparation and can’t wait to see everyone at Horizons 2023!
Rachel Yu | Chair
Currently a struggling grade 11 at Steveston-London Secondary, Rachel is delighted to serve as the Chair of the Social, Cultural, and Humanitarian Committee (SOCHUM). Ever since stumbling into her first online conference, Rachel has found herself completely entranced by the world of MUN, sparking a welcomed passion for global politics and public speaking. As time progressed, Rachel has managed to explore various worldwide topics through a different lens while simultaneously making new and invaluable friendships. Outside of the committee room, Rachel can be found eating an abhorrent amount of sriracha, living at her school (quite literally), and finding new pens to hoard. Rachel looks forward to meeting all the delegates for a weekend of fruitful debates.
Clare Wang | Chair
A Junior at York House School, Clare is honored to serve as the Chair of the Social, Cultural, and Humanitarian Committee (SOCHUM) at CAHSMUN Horizons 2023. Since attending her first conference in Grade 9, Clare has grown to love the engaging environment and experience Model UN has to bring. She has met many passionate delegates, made valuable friendships with like-minded individuals, participated in countless debates, gained many diplomatic skills, and created unforgettable memories. Each part of Model UN, from raising placards to tiring committee sessions, has left a lasting mark on her. Outside of Model UN, Clare can be found scrolling endlessly on her phone, watching random documentaries, or attempting to be productive and failing. At CAHSMUN Horizons 2023, Clare hopes to provide a captivating experience for all delegates!