TWU NSX

TWU political studies students join NATO Summit Simulation in Brussels 

Experiential learning in Europe

Students from around the world participate in a yearly NATO Summit Simulation (NSX) organized by NATO Field School, directed by Dr. Alexander Moens (SFU). This summer, a cohort from Trinity Western University joined the program for a full week of engagement at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. 

TWU NSX
The 2025 NATO Summit Simulation (NSX) in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo submitted)

Students engage global perspectives

The three from TWU included political studies student Elijah M. J. Nikiforuk, recent graduate Marko Zolotarov (’25), and professor Dr. Leanne Smythe. They were especially invited to participate in this exciting multilateral framework simulation that took place in May and June together with 60 students from 16 countries.

TWU NSX
Left to right: Political studies student Elijah M. J. Nikiforuk, graduate Marko Zolotarov (’25), and professor Dr. Leanne Smythe participated in the 2025 NATO Summit Simulation (NSX) in Brussels, Belgium, May–June.

Expanding opportunities for TWU students

Dr. Smythe knows that experiential learning is crucial for developing the understanding, skills, and networks required for students to succeed in their careers. 

She regularly leads and supports many opportunities within TWU’s political studies program that provide students with immersive learning and global perspectives. 

“Participating in the NATO Summit Simulation this year has given these students an opportunity they simply cannot get in the classroom,” she remarked. “It was an honour and joy for me to be at the event in Brussels and to watch them succeed in such a dynamic environment.”

TWU NSX
The 2025 NATO Summit Simulation (NSX) in Brussels, Belgium.  (Photo submitted)

Simulating international negotiations

Zolotarov counted it a privilege to represent Trinity Western among 30 participating universities at the NSX. For the simulation, he took on the role of a military counsellor within a national delegation representing a member state. He and his team negotiated topics of national interest that mirrored actual issues on the agenda for this year’s NATO Summit. 

It was an incredibly beneficial learning experience for Zolotarov and his peers. “We grew in our understanding of NATO’s diplomatic process, consensus-building, and strategic cooperation,” he remarked, “And we left with one shared goal: to defend the values that hold our alliance—and our world—together.” 

Students learned from diplomatic officials and staff working with NATO—including spokespersons, journalists, and professionals in the field—gaining insider knowledge of multinational diplomacy. They learned from veterans like Oana Lungescu, former and longest-serving NATO spokesperson, and Dr. Mark Webber, professor and expert on the politics of NATO.

Nikiforuk described the experience as “one-of-a-kind, dynamic, and immersive.” He won an award in recognition of his contributions as a defence counselor during one of the simulations.

TWU NSX
Left: TWU graduate Marko Zolotarov ('25) with former NATO spokesperson Oana Lungescu. Right: TWU student Elijah M. J. Nikiforuk with Dr. Mark Webber (centre) and Dr. Alexander Moens (far right).  (Photos submitted)

Receiving mentorship  and inspiration

“I was so pleased to be able to participate in debate and discussion simulations, the formulation of consensus-based communiques, and to learn alongside the best and brightest from across the alliance,” he said. “Overall, the trip was exhilarating and incredibly motivating,” he recalled.  

Among Nikiforuk’s favourite activities was attending the Secretary General's Press Conference with the Prime Minister of Iceland. Both Nikiforuk and Zolotarov expressed gratitude to the program’s organizers and the many mentors who gave generously of their time and wisdom to motivate and inspire the next generation of leaders. 

Dynamic learning within real-world contexts

Students who are interested to learng within real-world contexts and grow in their understanding of government and international relations may wish to learn more about TWU’s Laurentian Leadership Centre (LLC) in Ottawa. A live-in extension program offering upper-level courses, the LLC connects students with valuable networking opportunities and internships in Canada’s capital.


About Trinity Western University

Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is a global Christian liberal arts university dedicated to equipping students for life. Uniting faith and reason through Christian teaching and scholarship, TWU is a research institution offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in the humanities and sciences as well as in several professional schools. It has campuses in Canada in Langley, Richmond, and Ottawa. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Instagram @trinitywestern, Twitter @TrinityWestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn. For media inquiries, please contact: media@twu.ca.