Judith Cunningham is a dedicated Montessori educator and the founder of Montessori Model UN (MMUN). In creating MMUN, Judith sought to honor Maria Montessori’s vision by encouraging students to find their voice, take meaningful action, and contribute to building peace. She holds an AMI Elementary Diploma, a Master’s Degree in Education, and has completed postgraduate work in Alternative Dispute Resolution. Judith also serves on the boards of Montessori Europe and Youth for a Better World. With 17 years of experience teaching elementary and middle school, and 15 years as a Montessori Head of School in both the U.S. and Canada, Judith has spent her career fostering a global perspective and agency in students and educators alike.

Dr Filippo Giorgi is an internationally recognised authority in climate modelling, climate change, and its impacts. His expertise spans also biosphere-atmosphere and chemistry-climate interactions. He has published over 420 peer-reviewed papers, placing him among the most highly cited scientists in the geosciences. Dr Giorgi has played a significant role in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, contributing to the first five assessment reports. From 2002 to 2008, he served as a vice chair of Working Group I, which shared the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize. His accolades include the 2018 Alexander von Humboldt Medal from the European Geosciences Union, recognising his contributions to climate research and scientific advancement in developing countries. He is also a member of Italy’s Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei and the Istituto Veneto di Scienze, Lettere e Arti.

Riemer Brandsma, a dynamic high school student from the Netherlands, made waves as the Climate Mayor of his city. As a World Connector, he drives youth sustainability initiatives, uniting students from Europe and beyond through partnerships with Montessori Europe, Montessori Model United Nations, and World Connector-Affiliate Earth Charter. Known for his passion and energy, Riemer inspires young people to take bold steps and become changemakers in building a sustainable future.

Akshat Jain is an active Global Shaper and Climate Reality Leader, dedicated to creating a sustainable and equitable future. Through his volunteer work, Akshat advocates for climate change adaptation and digital literacy. As a passionate contributor to the Global Shapers community, Akshat is committed to amplifying the voices of young people and driving youth-led initiatives that foster innovation and social progress.

Liv is a 27-year-old advocate for social change, representing the Global Shapers Oslo Hub. Passionate about making a difference from an early age, Liv focuses on healthcare, digital literacy, and sustainability practices. As a Global Shaper, Liv is dedicated to developing youth leaders, accelerating youth-driven action, and amplifying the voices of young people to create a more sustainable and equitable future. Empowering the youth, giving them a voice and a seat in decision-making is vital in achieving impactful change. As a young professional, Liv is working in a global biotech company where she works on advancing health in therapeutic areas with big unmet needs.