Policy School Students Attend UNAGB Luncheon
“It was an enlightening opportunity to hear more about those in the greater Boston area,” said Amanda Gomes, “who are dedicating themselves to promoting international cooperation, peace, and sustainability.”
On October 23rd, Policy School Director Maria Ivanova and students Sajiad Sharifi ’27 (MS Urban Informatics) and Amanda Gomes ‘27 (BA Political Science and International Affairs) attended the annual UN Day Luncheon hosted by the United Nations Association of Greater Boston (UNAGB) at the American Academy of Arts & Sciences in Cambridge, MA.
Designed as an intimate and highly curated experience, this year’s Luncheon convened 100 influential leaders passionate about global cooperation and sustainability. Attendees came from Boston’s diplomatic, academic, corporate, and civic sectors.
The 2025 event honored the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and specifically focused on the theme “At the Crossroads: Health, Climate, Equity.” Participants explored the powerful intersection of scientific innovation, inclusive leadership, and collective action. They discussed how these critical elements can drive solutions for global well-being, fostering a healthier, more equitable, and sustainable world for all.
Sajjad, who joined UNAGB in September following an introduction from Prof. Ivanova, especially enjoyed this opportunity to reconnect with the UN family after his tenure at UNESCO concluded in December 2021. “The event was a wonderful experience,” says Sajjad. “I was delighted to meet so many dedicated individuals and particularly enjoyed my conversations with UNAGB Executive Director Caitlin Moore, Takeda Chief Global Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer Takako Ohyabu, and President of Communities Without Borders Peter Smith.”
Amanda, who has previously volunteered with UNAGB through their middle school Model UN conferences, was grateful to engage with the UN community in Boston after having worked as a researcher at the UN in Geneva this past summer. She found the experience to be an “enlightening opportunity to hear more about those in the greater Boston area who are dedicating themselves to promoting international cooperation, peace, and sustainability. Getting to attend the luncheon alongside Prof. Ivanova was particularly fascinating given her expertise on environmental affairs and plastics.”
This event served as a powerful reminder that, amid these uncertain times, so many individuals, businesses, and organizations remain deeply committed to international development and sustainability.