On Monday, June 23rd at 6:00 pm EST, I’ll be attempting something big — a solo swim around the island of Manhattan, the legendary 20 Bridges Swim, 28.5 miles through ever-changing currents, under iconic bridges, and past one of the busiest cities in the world.

But I won’t be doing it alone.

While I’ll have the official NY Open Water crew, a guide boat, and a kayaker beside me, my true crew — the one that fuels every stroke — is much bigger. It’s you, my donors. It’s Jen and Elaine, my incredible swim coaches, who live in my muscle memory and whisper form corrections in my head. And it’s my Model United Nations (MUN) students, whose passion and perseverance have inspired every ounce of training and every early morning swim.

This swim is dedicated to them.

In the solitude of the water, my mind drifts — not away, but deeper. I replay moments from MUN conferences like mantras:

• A student giving their first speech, trembling but determined.

• The surprise and pride in their eyes when their non-negotiable clause makes it into the final resolution.

• The quiet joy when they realize: “I can do this. I belong here.”

• The moment of enlightenment, when confidence blooms and they understand that their voice matters on a global stage.

These students are why MUN Impact exists. MUN Impact gives students around the world the chance to practice diplomacy, leadership, and civic engagement, and to apply the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in their communities. It’s an organization built on the belief that student voice and action can shape a better world — and I see that truth every day.

Training for this swim has been tough — physically, mentally, emotionally. There are moments in the water when I doubt myself, when the current fights back when the distance feels endless.

And then I remember: I’m not alone.

This is where you come in.

By donating to my 20 Bridges Swim, you’re not just cheering from the sidelines — you’re getting in the boat. You’re part of the crew that lifts me when my arms are tired and the current is strong. And more importantly, you’re helping keep MUN Impact afloat and thriving for students worldwide.

This swim is a journey — not just around an island, but through purpose, memory, and hope. Every splash tells a story, and every bridge I pass symbolizes a challenge overcome. I’m swimming for connection, for education, for change.

Help me finish this swim strong. Join my crew. Support MUN Impact.

With gratitude and grit,

Andrew a.k.a WheresNewmo

20 Bridges Swimmer | MUN Believer | Student Advocate