NYU Abu Dhabi Class of 2021 alumna May Alhajeri was recently appointed as a UAE Youth Delegate to the United Nations. Her role includes providing input to on issues related to youth, and participating in the UAE delegates' work such as attending meetings and informal negotiations.

What are some things you hope to accomplish in this new role?

I’m most excited and eager to engage with other youth delegates to address matters and challenges of mutual interests, like gender equality, climate change, sustainability, and future governance, that concern our future and the future of generations to come. I also look forward to implementing successful international models in the UAE that aligns with our national agenda for the next 50 years, and targets the sustainable development goals we aspire to achieve.

How did your NYUAD experience influence your decision to apply for this position?

From the moment I joined NYUAD's Summer Academy as a high school student to prepare myself for university, and up until my university graduation from NYUAD, I witnessed first-hand the many ways in which NYUAD instilled the values of being a global leader in every student. Also, having prior international exposure from the diverse NYUAD student body assured me in my decision to join the program knowing that I'll be able to easily communicate with other youth delegates despite the wide geographical, political, and cultural difference.