When the assembly is in the middle of a debate and a delegate suddenly calls out: “Motion to move to voting procedure!”, a general “Seconded!” rings out. At this point, all the committee chairmen exchange a look of panic and uncertainty. However, with a simple nod from Manon Grivotet, then General Secretary in charge of training, it was enough to reassure them. One of the participants takes a breath and announces in a firm voice: “So now we’re going to move on to the voting procedure.” At the final plenary session of the FerMUN 2025 resolution, fourteen apprenticeship presidents, who had successfully passed the first stage of the selection process, were given the opportunity to prove themselves to the assembly in the open debate and then in the closed debate, supported by the four confirmed full presidents.

Demanding training, total commitment

Being a committee chairman at FerMUN is no easy task. At the heart of the UN simulation, committee chairmen have a key role to play: overseeing debates, guaranteeing procedure and  maintaining a rhythm, while remaining attentive to delegates. For FerMUN 2026, the selection process was once again rigorous. Supervised by Manon Grivotet, the presidential candidates first went through an initial selection process. Then came the real-life situation: during the debate on the FerMUN 2025 resolution, these students were able to practice under live conditions, co-chairing an assembly full of MUN participants.

A trainer committed to the chairs

For Manon Grivotet, this mentoring role is all part of the FerMUN journey. She confides: “It’s very important for me to accompany them in their training, because I’ve been extremely lucky to have received advice and knowledge from our former DSG Chair Jasmine. I hope to share my knowledge and to be at their side throughout the preparation and at the conference. I’m sure they will also bring me a fresh perspective on the role of chair, and I look forward to forging strong links with them!”

A team of experienced presidents to guide newcomers

This year, four student presidents have been appointed: Leya Petitjean, Lena Quéguiner, Filip Drozd and Jasmine Eugene, whose experience and rigor serve as a benchmark. Alongside them, the fourteen apprentices form a promising group of students who have already experienced the responsibilities of a committee: Blaise Arenales-Schwartz , Maya Baines , Eulalie Bohler , Elisa Bourguignon , Charlotte Dauchez , Grégoire Oury , Laurent Kogej , Clara Nguyen , Mathilda Rey , Hanae Schwebel , Nicky Taylor , Typhaine Tchognia Djamen Gnikeu Yoke , Harriet Onyango and Aimie Quéguiner.

These apprentice presidents will still have to prove themselves over the coming months, notably at MockMUN, where they will be entrusted with the chairmanship of committees. A final selection will be made at the end of the school year, prior to the FerMUN 2026 conference. For them, the objective is clear: to embody the neutrality, benevolence and mastery for which FerMUN chairs are renowned. More than a role, a responsibility.