Youth in Government, better known as YIG, is a civic engagement program that encourages students to practice the functions of our state government. 

“YIG has been a very memorable event for me. It has helped me grow and make some of my closest friends,” YIG President and senior Anton Do said.

The conference, held in the Tennesse State Capitol, offered a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the real workings of our government. The students had the honor of sitting in Tennessee Senate chambers and presenting on actual Senate floors. Students assumed the roles of legislators, house members, senators, statespeople, and press members, all under the leadership of an elected governor and their cabinet. 

“YIG is a program that helps students step out of their comfort zone and explore something new,” YIG and MUN advisor Alexa Claremont said. 

It was a bustling weekend filled with learning, fun, and tears as members departed the conference with life-long memories and recognitions that set a successful precedent for Lawson’s Youth in Government team. 

Lawyer teams John Paul Ngyuen and Javier Garrido-Martinez won their lawyer cases in front of the Supreme Court, and Red House Senator Grace Chen had her proposed bill signed into law without any opposition. 

Junior Chaz Covington won the Outstanding Statesperson Award, junior Henry Ruben won the Outstanding Press Member Award, and juniors Iya Cadiz, Roneria Clark, and Tracy Ngyuen won the Outstanding Bill Award. Junior Yasmin Wolde won her campaign as the Speaker Pro-Tempore for Blue House, and junior Wan Tovi was recognized to attend the Conference of National Affairs (CONA).

“I feel honored to be selected as the Outstanding Press Member, and I am really happy that I got to represent Lawson the best way possible,” award-winning press member Henry Ruben said.

For more pictures and the vlog created by L.A.S.H, Lawrence Quimbo, Anton Do, Samuel Harrison, and Henry Ruben, check out MUN and YIG’s Instagram @lawson_mun_yig!