Justice, Data & Dreams – Where Policy Meets Personal Power
Monday, June 9, 2025
Title: Making the Invisible Visible – Data as a Tool for Justice
Today’s sessions at the UN centered on crime measurement and data classification. Angela Me introduced frameworks like the ICCS, stressing that international alignment is key to understanding global crime. Yuliya Zabyelina’s session underscored the difficulty of tracking hidden criminal networks. Margot Denier explained how arms trafficking is often only uncovered after the fact, not proactively intercepted. These conversations emphasized a profound lesson: crime data is not just for statisticians—it is foundational to justice. As someone who grew up overlooked by institutions, I understand the stakes of invisibility. Today, I saw how data can make the unseen visible.
Tuesday, June 10, 2025
Title: Rooted Prevention & Youth Empowerment at the OSCE
At the OSCE, we explored how international partnerships approach youth vulnerability. My group’s case study focused on Amir, a 17-year-old in foster care. I connected deeply with his story and advocated for interventions to begin at pregnancy—through financial literacy, counseling, and family support. That morning’s presentation on Maxad, a boy pushed into crime by family debt, echoed Amir’s path. But Maxad’s exit—through mentorship and kitchen work—gave me hope.
During Q&A, I asked OSCE officials how the consensus model overcomes political deadlock. Their response about the Troika system reminded me that international law is not just about policy—it’s about persistence. Preventing harm requires not only laws but unified willpower.
Wednesday, June 11, 2025
Title: Healing in Transit – SHERLOC, Sovereignty, and My Return to the UN
Today I returned to the Traumazentrum to have my stitches removed. Following Providence’s directions, I successfully navigated the tram system and walked 15 minutes like a true local. While waiting, I worked on my SHERLOC analysis of Republic of Equatorial Guinea v. Frederik Potgieter & Peter Huxham. Rather than critique, I focused on how the government’s use of “public health” laws to prosecute drug trafficking reflects legal strategy and sovereignty.
Back at the UN, I presented my case to Lisa from UNODC, Professor Barberet, and my classmates. Lisa’s feedback—saying my commentary was “perfect”—was deeply affirming. In that moment, I felt not only competent but seen. I realized that I am no longer speaking from the margins—I am shaping the center.
Thursday, June 12, 2025
Title: Reclaiming Identity at the Sisi Museum
We spent the day engaging with Vienna’s cultural legacy in our own way. I spent my day at the Sisi Museum, I walked through the life of Empress Elisabeth—both adored and alienated. Her poetry, pain, and defiance reminded me of the duality many women carry: strength and sorrow. This quiet day was necessary. It gave me space to process all I had learned and become. I didn’t just see a historical figure—I saw myself. Reclaiming one’s voice, even across centuries, is an act of justice.
Friday, June 13, 2025
Title: Crossing Borders, Building Bridges – Graduation & Global Commitment
Our final day brought together themes of international cooperation. We explored INTERPOL, NGO partnerships, and the Generation Justice youth initiative. I saw my story reflected in these programs—proof that lived experience belongs in the halls of power.
As we celebrated an impromptu graduation, I held my certificate with quiet pride. I arrived in Vienna unsure of where I fit. I’m leaving knowing that I have a place in this work. My past will not limit me—it propels me. I am a future attorney, a lifelong advocate, and a global citizen ready to build a better world.