Built by Students, For Students
JAMUN (Junior Assembly of the Model United Nations) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization run entirely by passionate high school and college student volunteers. We provide Model UN, Mock Trial, and Mathletes programs for middle school students in grades 5-8—with free resources and low-cost conferences, plus grants for those who need them—because we believe academic competition should be exciting, accessible, and—most importantly—fun.
Make Academics Fun
We believe every middle school student deserves the chance to discover their potential through academic competition. Research shows that students who participate in Model UN, debate, Mock Trial, and math competitions develop stronger public speaking, critical thinking, and leadership skills—abilities that transfer directly to academic success and college readiness.
JAMUN exists to make these transformative experiences accessible to all. We provide free and low-cost programs in Model UN (diplomatic simulation), Mock Trial (courtroom advocacy), and Mathletes (competitive mathematics)—designed specifically for students in grades 5-8. Our goal isn't just to teach skills; it's to spark a lifelong love of learning that prepares students for magnet schools, high school honors programs, and college admissions.
“We're not just running tournaments. We're showing kids that being smart is cool, that hard work pays off, and that they can accomplish incredible things.”
Joshua Varon
Founder, JAMUN
From Vision to Reality
The story of how a group of passionate students built something bigger than themselves.
The Spark
JAMUN was founded by a small group of high school students who saw a gap: middle schoolers were being left behind in academic competitions. We decided to change that.
Growing Roots
Our first conferences took flight. What started as a single Model UN event expanded to include Mock Trial and Mathletes, reaching students across multiple states.
Building Momentum
JAMUN earned 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. Our volunteer base grew to 80+, and we raised over $70,000 to make programs accessible to all.
Looking Forward
With 500+ students impacted and 30+ schools reached, we're just getting started. Our mission remains the same: make academics fun for every student.
Our Core Values
These principles guide everything we do at JAMUN.
Passion-Driven
We believe that genuine enthusiasm is contagious. Our volunteers bring energy and excitement that transforms academic competition into an adventure.
Community First
We're building more than programs—we're building a supportive family where every student feels they belong, regardless of experience level.
Innovation
As a youth-led organization, we think differently. We constantly reimagine how to make learning engaging and competitions accessible.
Excellence
We hold ourselves to the highest standards because our students deserve nothing less. Quality in everything we create.
The People Behind JAMUN
A dedicated group of student leaders working to make academics accessible and exciting.
Joshua Varon
FounderStudent at Duke University studying mathematics and computer science. Passionate about making academic competitions accessible to all students.
Charlie Fumerton
Director of Model UNVolleyball player with a keen interest in politics and international relations. Dedicated to fostering diplomatic skills in young delegates.
Dustin Simon
Director of Mock TrialTennis enthusiast studying mathematics. Committed to helping students develop critical thinking and advocacy skills through legal simulation.
Will Ballis
Director of MathletesFormer Mathletes champion who studied advanced mathematics. Passionate about philanthropy and expanding math competition opportunities.
Our leadership team is supported by 80+ volunteers who share our passion for empowering young learners. Together, we're proving that students can create real, lasting change.
Our Impact So Far
Every number represents a student inspired, a school empowered, or a volunteer who gave their time to make a difference.
Join Us in Making Academics Fun
Whether you're a student ready to compete, a teacher looking to start a program, or someone who wants to support our mission—there's a place for you at JAMUN.
Questions? Reach out at contact@jamun.org