Keynote Address

Keynote addresses are always a special feature of Model UN conferences. Early in 2003, the CANIMUN Secretariat announced Stephen Lewis as the keynote speaker for the 2003 opening ceremonies on March 12.

Formerly Deputy Executive Director of UNICEF, Canada's Ambassador to the United Nations and a prominent labour relations arbitrator, Mr. Lewis is a respected advisor and commentator on public issues. Speaking on topics that include human rights, the environment, education, health care and children's advocacy, he continues to challenge and inspire his audiences with passionate delivery of well-researched, analyzed and fact-based presentations.

As UN Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa, Mr. Lewis has had extensive experience as a politician, diplomat and humanitarian. A passionate advocate of the rights and needs of children, since leaving UNICEF in 1999 he has been raising his voice in support of various humanitarian causes around the world.

UNA-Canada hosted the 2003 opening ceremony at the prestigious National Arts Centre [NAC]. Situated in the heart of the nation’s capital across from Confederation Square and Parliament Hill, the Centre is among the largest performing arts complex in Canada. The only multidisciplinary, bilingual performing arts centre in North America, the NAC features one of the largest stages on the continent.

Conceived as the major project of the Federal Government as part of the Centennial celebrations, the National Arts Centre was opened to the public on June 2, 1969. Focusing on artistic excellence, diversity, and youth, the National Arts Centre has played an important role in the development of almost all Canadian artists. For more information on the NAC, please visit www.nac-cna.ca