From Debates to Dance Floors, OPOMUN’s Social Night at Alfândega
Madalena Reis, OPOMUN Media Team
Last night, the OPOMUN community gathered for a memorable social event at the Alfândega do Porto.
Designed by Jean Colson, between 1860 and 1872, this beautiful historic building was once a vital customs hub for Porto’s trade. After declining in the 20th century, it was restored in the 1990s and has since been established as a venue for cultural and social events. Its rich history and architecture only made the night even more special.
Thankfully, our team and equipment were transported smoothly, thanks to our partnership with Caetano Baviera. Their support ensured reliable and comfortable travel, allowing all media, hospitality, and staff to focus on making the event a success. With their excellent vehicles and service, Caetano Baviera really proved their dedication to quality. We appreciate their extraordinary support, as it has helped us have another wonderful OPOMUN.
The evening started off with Guilherme Tinoco on the piano as delegates began to arrive, setting a calm and elegant atmosphere for what was to come. As the delegates mingled and took in the historic surroundings, they enjoyed a carefully selected buffet menu with food such as pasta with tomato and cheese sauce, pão de queijo, mini quiches, coffee mousse, fresh fruit, and more.
As the event went on, Joana Maia, Staff at UNODC, took the stage for a heartfelt performance, starting with “Car’s Outside” and continuing with “The Truth” and “Boy X”. Music remained a key highlight throughout the event. Guilherme Tinoco, Chair at the Security Council, returned to the piano, this time accompanying Rafaela Nascimento, Staff at ECOSOC, as she captivated the audience with her singing of “Stay” by Rihanna, “No Time to Die” by Billie Eilish, and others.
Later, delegates had the chance to take part in a competitive committee karaoke session. Although all committees did an amazing job and tried their very best, ICJ, HSC, and SC stood out the most. As the night grew more competitive, a game of musical chairs was held exclusively for this year’s OPOMUN chairs, with Matteo Demarzo, the HSC typist, taking the victory.
We celebrated the tireless dedication of the chaperones, who accompany participating students across the world to all MUN conferences, with a celebratory toast with Vinho do Porto, one of our region’s best products.
To close the evening on a high note, a live band – “Marriage of Convenience” – took to the stage, filling the venue with energy. The talented group featured Edan Ibison as the lead vocalist and guitarist, Rotem Zernovizky on drums, Benício Mendes on guitar, and Erik Howland on bass. They certainly gave an unforgettable performance!
The Social Event truly represented the spirit of OPOMUN, bringing together our delegates with music, food, games, and shared moments. It was a night to remember and a perfect way to relax and have fun before returning to the debates and discussions.
