“MUN is more than just a simulation—it is a gateway to opportunities, personal development, and a community that stays with you for life.”
MUN Stars - Efthimis Kounalakis

MA-RI-NA!!! Ring a bell? No? Then you probably you weren’t at EuroMUN 2024, and you definitely didn’t meet Efthimis and the Unipi MUN Society Delegation. While most people were living it up at the gala, they (including yours truly, to be honest) were glued to the big screen watching Eurovision. Priorities, am I right?
So, let me introduce you to Efthimis—21 years old, studying International and European Studies at the University of Piraeus. But that’s not all. He also considers himself a pro singer: “Mostly pop, but lately I’ve been exploring classical singing too.” Multi-talented king.
He started his MUN journey in 2022, and in just three years, he’s already been to 20 conferences. Talk about dedication! His motivation? A practical need to complement his studies. “Given my academic background, I knew I had to be part of it.” He had zero clue about MUN—no idea about the rules, no expectations—but watching his chairs in action? That lit a fire in him.
“My ambition pushed me forward.”
His first conference? EUropaS, an EU simulation where he repped an MEP in the subcommittee on foreign affairs. He had NO IDEA what he was doing… and still won Best Delegate. Casual flex. “The European spirit played a significant role in my experience.” His advice to MUN newbies? Don’t be intimidated. In 2022, the top delegates won a fully funded trip to Brussels—and yep, he was one of them. That’s when it hit him: he wanted to work for the EU.
Efthimis didn’t just participate in MUN, he ran the show. He took over from another MUN legend, Alexios, as President of the University of Piraeus MUN Society. “Running a 15-year-old association was both an honor and a challenge. I had to prove my commitment and make sure it thrived.” Leadership came with struggles—especially learning to let go of control, but his team (shoutout to them!) had his back. And he’s proud to have passed it on to a new generation. A true MUN fam moment.
But if you ask him what he loves most? That's Rhodes MRC HSED. He’s been everything from Deputy to Secretary-General there. “I Love Rhodes MRC High School Edition, more than my position in its University Edition. It’s more relaxed, but also incredibly rewarding.” One of his fave moments? A 16-year-old delegate told him: ‘Efthimis, you made me realize what I want to study.’ Another student, who’s queer, said seeing Efthimis in a high-ranking position made them feel seen and represented.
“Moments like these remind me why I do this.” Because at the end of the day, MUN isn’t just about procedures and resolutions: it’s about shaping people and giving them a voice.
When it comes to chairing, Efthimis has a foolproof approach. Choosing the right topic is KEY. “A major mistake is picking something that doesn’t match the committee’s mandate. Or something that is not fresh” His take on study guides, is simple:
- Beginners: Give them all the info they need.
- Intermediates: Guide them, but don’t overwhelm them.
- Advanced delegates: Just drop the basics and let them deep dive on their own.
In general, focus on analysing the porblem that your delegates have to solve, not just in describing your topics. (Yes, this is your sign to stop procrastinating if your study guide deadline is tomorrow.)

And for MUN memes? His bestie Alexios (one of our MUN Stars as well) is a walking meme. But if he had to pick one, it’d be Efthimis carrying his EU flag EVERYWHERE—which, by the way, was given to him by Roberta Metsola herself. People legit call him ‘Eurolagna’ because of his deep love for the EU. Iconic.
MUN has also connected Efthimis with high-ranking professionals and decision-makers. “In Greece, soft skills are kinda slept on, but they’re ESSENTIAL for an international career”. So he has it clear, MUN It’s one of the best ways to boost your CV and gain real-world experience that’s respected abroad.
As we wrap up the interview, one thing is clear: Efthimis doesn’t just participate in MUN, he lives it. Whether he’s belting out a pop ballad, chairing a heated debate, or screaming at the TV during Eurovision (priorities!), one thing’s for sure, his passion is contagious. And if you ever find yourself at a conference, just look for the EU flag, chances are, Efthimis is nearby, ready to dive into another unforgettable MUN experience. See you in the Berlaymont (European Commission Building)!