I’ve been captivated by the world since I was a child. I was drawn to the news, eager to understand international events and the forces shaping the world. Yet, for years, I struggled to find a place to connect with my peers and to channel my curiosity—until I discovered Model United Nations (MUN) in high school. MUN offered a platform where I could discuss current and past global conflicts, diplomatically create resolutions, and have a community of peers with the same interests. My enthusiasm quickly grew into a desire to lead, so I ran for Deputy Secretary General (Vice-President) in my sophomore year. After presenting my well-delivered speech to the club, I had the honor of being elected. I immediately began working to help elevate our MUN club. My first major initiative was expanding our horizons beyond local competitions. Through extensive research, I discovered the National High School Model United Nations (NHSMUN) in New York City—a prestigious, international event that simulates the real workings of the UN. At NHSMUN, delegates can compete with other delegates from across the globe. I believed our club was more than prepared for this challenge, so I pitched the idea to our teacher. With the support of the secretariat team, we spent weeks navigating logistics: securing school board approval, organizing travel, and calculating costs. Preparing for NHSMUN was intense. Each member, including myself, had to write a 20-page position paper and compile a research binder representing Malta. I also authored a 25-page background guide on the Cambodian genocide for our club's yearly conference, deepening delegates' understanding of complex international issues. Arriving in New York was exhilarating, but the experience surpassed my expectations. We listened to a motivational speech by former President Joe Biden and, most memorably, the interview our team had with Vanessa Frazier, Malta’s ambassador to the UN and chair of the Security Council from 2023-2024. Our conversation opened my eyes to the misuse of veto power by the Security Council’s permanent members: China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The continuous misuse of the veto power halts the delivery of humanitarian aid to millions and causes the UN to be less effective. Inspired by this newfound issue, I immediately wanted to write about the misuse of the veto power. So when I returned home, I took on the task of writing a 22-page research paper, determined to raise awareness. I presented my research to my peers, club members, and fellow citizens, hoping to stir more debate about the need for veto reform. I am now occupied with abstracting my paper for publication in local newspapers to inform a broader audience. I know there is an extremely low chance my work gets published, but I believe it’s worth trying no matter what because real change starts with awareness. I’m amazed at how a simple desire to improve my school’s MUN club led me to discover a more profound passion for advocacy and leadership. I’ve learned that meaningful change requires more than hard work; it demands initiative and the courage to pursue ambitious goals. I am proud to have been elected Secretary General (President) of our MUN club for my senior year. I look forward to continuing to push boundaries and inspiring others to face the world’s most pressing challenges by going above and beyond. The Road Home Exteriors Scholarship represents more than financial support—it’s an investment in my commitment to building a better future locally and globally. Just as Road Home Exteriors transforms houses into homes, I strive to create spaces where critical issues are discussed and change will follow.