Ladies and Gentlemen, Dear Members and Partners,
It is with great honor and a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today as the Vice President and Head of the Institutional Governance Subcommittee of THE SONAR Institute. Our mission is to promote diplomacy, multiculturalism, and global cooperation, and I am proud to reflect on the remarkable progress we have made in these areas.
Our collaboration with prestigious institutions such as Sciences Po Paris, Sorbonne University, universities in London, and Trinity College Dublin, as well as over 20 embassies in Paris, showcases our commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships and enriching cultural experiences. These collaborations have not only elevated our profile but also provided invaluable opportunities for our members to engage with leaders and thinkers from around the world.
Our recent success stories are numerous and impactful. THE SONAR’s Irish regional representative “Ambassador” meeting with President Emmanuel Macron highlighted our influence and the respect we command on the international stage. Our presence at the Huawei Seeds for the Future International Summit, with representatives from New Zealand and beyond, underscored our commitment to global leadership and innovation.
We have also made significant strides in our digital and in-person events. Our Annual Conference in Dublin and digitally was a resounding success, bringing together dignitaries, scholars, and members from diverse backgrounds. The International Model United Nations Competition, which saw participation from several European universities, was a testament to our dedication to fostering a spirit of global cooperation and understanding.
Our digital events have been equally transformative. From our extensive discussions at the Embassy of Brazil in Dublin to our innovative use of platforms like Discord and Clubhouse, we have created dynamic spaces for dialogue and collaboration. THE SONAR Ambassadors’ digital quiz events and our CV workshops have provided members with opportunities to learn, grow, and connect, even amid global challenges: the COVID-19 pandemic.
Looking ahead, our focus remains on expanding our network and enhancing our impact. Our upcoming projects include new series of events at Science Po Paris, partnerships with embassies in Berlin, and the launch of a new podcast series focused on philosophy in collaboration with technical universities in Munich. These initiatives are designed to deepen our engagement with diverse cultures and foster a greater understanding of the complexities of our world.
As we continue to build on our successes, I am reminded of the words of George W. Bush: “The best diplomacy starts with getting to know each other.” This principle guides our work and inspires our vision for the future. Together, we are creating a world where every culture is celebrated, every voice is heard, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Thank you for being a part of this extraordinary journey. Your dedication and passion are the driving forces behind our achievements. Let us continue to strive for excellence, foster meaningful connections, and build a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
With deepest gratitude and warmest regards,
Zorana Foley
Vice President of THE SONAR INSTITUTE
