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In this episode of Candid Conversations with Student Resolvers, we feature Harshitha J S, a fourth-year law student and Student Resolver at YCM. Drawing from her experience both as a law student and someone actively involved in the mediation ecosystem, Harshitha shares how mediation training can transform the way students approach conflicts—not only in professional settings but also in everyday life. During the conversation, she explains that mediation training helps students develop foundational conflict resolution skills early in their careers, before they become accustomed to purely adversarial approaches common in litigation. Instead of reacting impulsively, mediation encourages individuals to pause, listen carefully, and focus on understanding the real issue behind a dispute. Harshitha also reflects on why mediation is becoming increasingly relevant in today’s fast-paced and highly reactive world. With people often responding quickly but understanding slowly, mediation introduces a structured way to separate emotions from issues and encourage meaningful dialogue. Another key insight she shares is that mediation is not limited to serious legal disputes. Many conflicts begin as small misunderstandings—between friends, roommates, colleagues, or family members—and mediation techniques can help resolve them before they escalate. Key themes explored in this episode:• Why mediation training is valuable for law students• The importance of patience and thoughtful communication in conflict• How mediation shifts focus from “who is right” to “what is the real issue”• Applying mediation techniques in everyday personal conflicts• How mediation skills can strengthen career prospects and professional growth Harshitha also discusses how mediation training can give students a professional edge—helping them communicate effectively under pressure, understand negotiation dynamics, and stand out in interviews and internships. This conversation highlights an important idea: learning mediation early helps future lawyers approach disputes with clarity, patience, and a deeper understanding of human conflict.

In this episode of Star Performers of YCM, we feature Gaurav Yadav, a fifth-year law student from NorthCap University in Gurugram. Gaurav shares how his journey into mediation began when a faculty member introduced him to the IMI Certified Mediation Training conducted by Young Conflict Managers. Curious about learning practical dispute resolution skills beyond the classroom, he decided to join the program and explore mediation as a professional competency. During the conversation, Gaurav reflects on how the training helped him understand the structured process of mediation, including the importance of following key stages, maintaining neutrality, and guiding parties toward constructive dialogue. He also highlights the supportive learning environment created by the trainers and peers throughout the sessions. One of the most valuable aspects of the program for him was the co-mediation model, where trainees worked in pairs to facilitate discussions between parties. Through these role-play exercises, he discovered the importance of collaboration, coordination, and shared responsibility in managing a mediation process. Beyond technical skills, the training also led to personal growth. Gaurav explains how mediation helped him become more patient, a better listener, and more mindful in handling conflicts—skills that extend beyond formal dispute resolution into everyday interactions. Key themes explored in this episode:• A law student’s introduction to mediation training• The value of co-mediation and collaborative facilitation• How mediation builds patience and active listening skills• Managing online mediation sessions and team coordination• Believing that every conflict has a potential solution Gaurav’s journey reflects the core message of mediation: when conflicts are approached with patience, understanding, and structured dialogue, meaningful solutions become possible.

In this episode of Star Performers of YCM, we feature Adv. Abhiraj Jayant, a practicing advocate at the Delhi High Court and various district courts in Delhi, specializing primarily in Intellectual Property Rights. Abhiraj shares how his experiences in court—witnessing long waiting hours, growing case backlogs, and the frustration of litigants—motivated him to explore mediation as an alternative path to resolving disputes. Recognizing the increasing pressure on courts and the importance of faster, more collaborative dispute resolution methods, he decided to pursue professional mediation training through Young Conflict Managers. During the conversation, Abhiraj reflects on his experience in the IMI Certified Mediation Training, particularly appreciating the depth of insights provided by expert trainer Bart Neiboer, whose attention to detail helped trainees refine even the smallest aspects of their mediation approach. He also discusses the importance of the co-mediation model, explaining how working alongside another mediator during role plays required strong communication, coordination, and emotional awareness—especially when managing team dynamics under pressure. One of his biggest realizations during the training was understanding that the mediator is not responsible for creating the solution. Instead, the mediator’s role is to guide the parties toward communication so they can arrive at their own resolution. Key themes explored in this episode:• Why mediation is becoming increasingly important in India’s legal system• Lessons from professional mediation training• The value of co-mediation and collaborative facilitation• Techniques like identifying best-case and worst-case scenarios in disputes• Addressing the core issue of conflicts rather than focusing on personalities Today, Abhiraj continues to apply mediation principles in his legal practice—helping clients rethink litigation strategies and evaluate settlement possibilities through structured dialogue and reflection. His story highlights how communication, patience, and perspective-shifting can transform the way lawyers approach disputes, both inside and outside the courtroom.

In this episode of Mediation Trailblazers, we feature Adv. Avadhut Gaidoye, an advocate from Belgaum, who shares his journey from law school competitions to applying mediation principles in real legal practice. Coming from a background in BBA before pursuing LL.B, Avadhut brings a unique blend of management thinking and legal reasoning to the field of dispute resolution. In this conversation, he reflects on how his interest in mediation began during law school when he realized that communication and understanding can often resolve conflicts more effectively than prolonged litigation. Interestingly, his entry into mediation competitions happened almost by accident—initially participating in negotiation competitions simply to improve his college attendance. However, the experience quickly transformed his perspective. Through competitions and exposure to ADR formats, he discovered how negotiation and mediation allow advocates to understand clients more deeply, respect opposing perspectives, and search for solutions that preserve relationships. Avadhut also shares insights from one of the most memorable milestones in his journey—winning an international mediation competition organized by Lexpecto—an experience that helped him understand the professionalism and collaborative culture within global ADR spaces. Beyond competitions, he explains how mediation skills play a crucial role in everyday legal practice. From negotiating with clients to resolving disputes before they escalate, he highlights that negotiation and mediation are foundational skills for every lawyer, whether inside or outside the courtroom. Key themes explored in this episode:• How mediation competitions shape young legal professionals• The importance of listening to resolve rather than listening to respond• Staying calm and confident during negotiation rounds• Lessons from international ADR competitions• Why mediation is a core skill for advocates in real legal practice Avadhut’s journey is a reminder that effective conflict resolution begins with communication, patience, and the willingness to understand both sides of a dispute.

In this episode of Star Performers of YCM, we feature Sharique Arbaz, a pre-final year law student from Aligarh Muslim University Faculty of Law and a recipient of the Lotus Scholarship offered by Young Conflict Managers. Sharique shares how his curiosity about dispute resolution began early in law school when he noticed that most legal training focused heavily on moots and mock trials, with limited exposure to mediation. After discovering mediation through online resources and a workshop by YCM, he decided to explore the field further and eventually completed the IMI-certified 40-hour mediation training. During the conversation, Sharique reflects on his experience during the training—particularly the role plays, constructive feedback from mentors, and the confidence he developed as he progressed through the sessions. He also discusses how the training shaped his leadership journey at university, where he now serves as Assistant Secretary in the Mediation Society, organizing workshops and client counselling competitions to promote awareness of ADR among students. Beyond law school activities, Sharique highlights how mediation principles—especially neutrality, active listening, and collaborative problem-solving—have influenced the way he approaches disputes in everyday situations. Key themes explored in this episode:• Discovering mediation early in law school• Learning through role plays and mentor feedback• Promoting ADR awareness among law students• Leadership and initiative within university mediation societies• The future of mediation and Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) Sharique’s story reflects how early exposure to mediation can shape a student’s perspective on law, leadership, and dispute resolution, encouraging the next generation of lawyers to look beyond traditional litigation and embrace collaborative solutions.

In this episode of Star Performers of YCM, we feature Angel Singh, a standout participant from the July 2025 cohort of the Young Conflict Managers IMI Certified Mediation Training. Angel shares her journey from studying business administration and law to working as a legal advisor in a leading media and broadcasting company, while simultaneously pursuing her LL.M. During the conversation, she reflects on how discovering mediation through LinkedIn led her to explore an entirely new way of approaching conflicts and negotiations. She discusses how the training helped her understand the psychological and behavioral dimensions of conflict, emphasizing that mediation is not only about legal frameworks but also about understanding how people think, react, and communicate. Angel also highlights the value of the co-mediation model, explaining how working alongside another mediator helped her recognize her strengths, identify areas for growth, and develop a deeper appreciation for collaboration and teamwork. Beyond the training itself, Angel shares how she has already applied mediation techniques in her professional life—especially during client negotiations—where active listening, calm communication, and structured dialogue helped de-escalate tense discussions. She also recounts a meaningful moment where she mediated a family dispute between siblings, helping them avoid litigation and reach a constructive understanding. Key themes explored in this episode: • The growing relevance of mediation in India’s legal landscape • Understanding the psychology behind conflicts • Learning teamwork through the co-mediation model • Applying mediation skills in professional negotiations • Using mediation techniques to resolve everyday disputes Angel’s experience shows how mediation training can transform the way professionals approach conflict, communication, and negotiation, making it a valuable skill not only for lawyers but for anyone navigating complex human interactions.

In this episode of the Star Performers of YCM series, we feature Amritesh Unny, an outstanding participant from the 2024 cohort at Young Conflict Managers. Amritesh, a law student who previously completed his bachelor’s in legal studies, shares insights from his early journey into the legal field and how mediation training shaped his understanding of conflict resolution. Initially approaching mediation from a traditional legal perspective, he explains how the training helped him realize that mediation is not limited to law—it is an interdisciplinary skill that can be applied in everyday life, leadership, and decision-making. During the conversation, Amritesh reflects on impactful sessions during the training, particularly those that emphasized understanding people, active listening, and approaching disputes with empathy rather than competition. One of his key takeaways from the program is that mediation is not about one party winning, but about creating solutions where both sides walk away satisfied. He also discusses his experience engaging students across disciplines—law, psychology, liberal arts, and architecture—through mediation initiatives, highlighting how ADR can bridge perspectives from different academic backgrounds. Key themes explored in this episode:• Discovering mediation as an interdisciplinary skill• Moving beyond a “win–lose” mindset in dispute resolution• The role of active listening and perspective-taking in leadership• Encouraging law students to explore mediation early in their academic journey• Building awareness of ADR among students from diverse fields This episode is particularly valuable for law students, young professionals, and anyone curious about how mediation skills can shape leadership, communication, and conflict resolution both inside and outside the legal profession.

In this episode of the Star Performers of YCM series, we feature Samir Kumar, a distinguished trainee from the JAN–FEB 2025 cohort at Young Conflict Managers. With a professional career spanning several decades in the banking and financial sector—including roles at Punjab National Bank and Small Industries Development Bank of India—Samir shares how his experience in handling financial disputes, recovery cases, and corporate negotiations naturally led him toward mediation. During the conversation, Samir reflects on how, throughout his career, he was often informally resolving conflicts between exporters, importers, and financial stakeholders—long before he formally learned mediation techniques. After taking voluntary retirement in 2019, he deepened this interest by completing YCM’s mediation training, which helped him transform intuitive conflict resolution into a structured professional skill. He also discusses how practical training, role plays, and feedback from international coaches shaped his understanding of mediation—particularly the importance of neutrality, patience, empathy, and effective communication. Today, Samir continues to apply these skills while working with a law firm, advising corporate clients on complex international trade and financial disputes. His journey highlights how mediation skills can be valuable not only in formal dispute resolution settings but also in professional negotiations and everyday problem-solving. Key themes discussed in this episode:• Transitioning from a banking career into mediation• Recognizing informal mediation in everyday professional life• The importance of listening, neutrality, and patience in conflict resolution• Learning mediation through practical role plays and coaching• Applying mediation skills in corporate and international trade disputes This episode is particularly insightful for professionals considering mediation as a second career, as well as students and practitioners interested in the real-world applications of ADR skills.

In this episode of the YCM Live Series, we are joined by Joseph George, a Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediator, conflict resolution specialist, arbitrator, and trained hostage negotiator. With extensive experience across civil, commercial, employment, and business disputes, Joseph shares powerful insights into the realities of mediation and negotiation beyond textbooks. The conversation explores how Joseph’s journey into ADR began—from helping resolve disputes within his family to formally entering mediation during the COVID-19 period. Since then, he has expanded his work into arbitration, commercial dispute resolution, and negotiation coaching across different jurisdictions. A key highlight of the discussion is Joseph’s perspective on what actually moves difficult mediations forward. He explains that mediators must focus on uncovering the core issue beneath the surface narratives parties bring into the room. Often, once the real concern is identified, even a simple gesture—such as a genuine apology—can shift the dynamics and open the door to resolution. Joseph also discusses the relationship between mediation and negotiation, emphasizing that mediators often facilitate negotiation by carefully relaying information, testing possibilities, and helping parties reassess their positions without imposing decisions. One of the most fascinating parts of the conversation is his insight into hostage negotiation, a highly specialized form of conflict resolution focused on preserving life. In such high-pressure situations, active listening, trust-building, and gradual de-escalation become critical tools for negotiators. Key themes explored in this episode:• Finding the core issue in difficult mediations• The role of negotiation within mediation• Common mindset mistakes parties bring into mediation• Why role plays and structured feedback are essential for learning ADR• How hostage negotiation applies active listening and trust in extreme conflict situations• The evolving role of technology and AI in ADR training Joseph also reflects on his experience coaching participants at Young Conflict Managers (YCM) and highlights the importance of practical learning, guided exercises, and continuous skill development for aspiring mediators. This episode offers valuable insights for law students, ADR practitioners, negotiators, and anyone interested in understanding conflict resolution in both everyday disputes and high-stakes situations.

In this episode of the YCM Conversations Series, we speak with Shayhum, a mediation practitioner from Sri Lanka who has been actively associated with YCM as an ambassador and junior coach. Shayhum shares how his journey into mediation began during his undergraduate years, when he first encountered mediation training out of curiosity. What started as an academic opportunity soon turned into a long-term professional interest after his team achieved top recognition in a national mediation program in Sri Lanka. Since then, he has continued to engage with mediation training, mentoring, and ADR initiatives. During the conversation, Shayhum reflects on what makes mediation such a powerful dispute resolution process. According to him, three elements stand out: accessibility, confidentiality, and relationship preservation. Unlike traditional litigation, mediation allows parties to resolve disputes quickly, privately, and in a way that can preserve future relationships. He also discusses the importance of continuous learning through role plays and structured training, emphasizing that mediation is a skill that improves through practice, feedback, and reflection. From improving listening skills to managing speaking time and communication style, structured mediation exercises play a key role in shaping effective mediators. The discussion further explores the role of training platforms like YCM in creating opportunities for students, professionals, and individuals from diverse backgrounds to learn mediation early in their careers and build meaningful professional networks. Key themes discussed in this episode:• How mediation training sparked Shayhum’s journey into ADR• Why mediation is accessible, confidential, and relationship-focused• The role of role plays and feedback in mediator training• The importance of networking within the mediation community• How YCM is helping develop the next generation of mediators This episode offers valuable insights for law students, young professionals, and anyone interested in mediation, negotiation, and alternative dispute resolution.

In this episode of the YCM Expert Conversations Series, we feature Rukmini Menon, a senior lawyer and mediator with over three decades of experience in litigation and dispute resolution. Having practiced law for more than 30 years, primarily in indirect tax and commercial disputes, Rukmini shares how her introduction to mediation in 2012 transformed not only her professional journey but also her perspective on communication, conflict, and human relationships. She reflects on the shift from a traditional litigation mindset to a collaborative dispute resolution approach, emphasizing how mediation prioritizes dialogue, understanding, and mutually beneficial outcomes. During the conversation, she discusses the growing importance of mediation in India, particularly following the enactment of the Mediation Act, 2023, which has increased awareness and recognition of mediation as an effective dispute resolution mechanism. Rukmini also shares practical insights for aspiring mediators, including the core skills that define effective mediation—active listening, neutrality, empathy, and the ability to understand non-verbal communication. She explains common mistakes young mediators make, such as giving advice or being judgmental, and highlights why maintaining impartiality and facilitating dialogue are central to the mediator’s role. The discussion further explores the importance of mediation training and role-play exercises in bridging the gap between theory and real-world practice, particularly for law students and young professionals entering the field. Key themes explored in this episode:• The transition from litigation to mediation practice• Why listening and communication are core mediation skills• Common mistakes beginner mediators should avoid• The evolving mediation ecosystem in India• How training and role plays prepare future mediators This conversation offers valuable insights for law students, young mediators, and dispute resolution professionals looking to understand both the philosophy and practical realities of mediation.

In this episode of the YCM Expert Conversations Series, we speak with Reema Bandari, an advocate with more than three decades of experience in litigation, mediation, and dispute resolution. Drawing from her extensive practice, Reema shares why mediation has become an increasingly important tool in resolving disputes. She explains how principles such as self-determination, voluntariness, and confidentiality make mediation unique and effective, allowing parties to craft their own solutions while preserving dignity and relationships. The conversation also explores the mindset shift required for lawyers entering mediation, moving from an adversarial approach focused on winning cases to a collaborative approach focused on resolving disputes. Reema discusses common challenges faced by young lawyers and parties in mediation, including unrealistic expectations, lack of preparation, and treating mediation like a courtroom battle. A significant part of the discussion focuses on the future of mediation in India following the introduction of the Mediation Act, 2023, which aims to institutionalize mediation, strengthen enforcement of settlement agreements, and expand access through community and online mediation frameworks. As an expert trainer with Young Conflict Managers, Reema also reflects on the importance of structured mediation training, highlighting how role plays, feedback, and mentoring help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Key themes discussed in this episode:• Why mediation empowers parties through self-determination• The mindset shift lawyers must make in mediation• How mediators move discussions from conflict to resolution• The role of ethics, confidentiality, and neutrality in mediation• The impact of the Mediation Act, 2023 on the future of ADR in India• Why practical mediation training and role plays are essential for young professionals This conversation offers valuable insights for law students, young lawyers, mediators, and anyone interested in alternative dispute resolution and the evolving mediation ecosystem in India.

In this episode of the Star Performers of YCM series, we feature Mohamed Azad Hasan, a final-year law student from NorthCap University, who completed the IMI-certified mediation training with Young Conflict Managers. Azad shares how his journey into mediation began unexpectedly during an internship with a judge from the Delhi High Court, where he was introduced to the growing role of mediation in dispute resolution. What started as curiosity soon became a deeper interest as he realized how courts and institutions are increasingly encouraging settlement over adversarial litigation. In the conversation, Azad reflects on his experience during the training — from initially feeling hesitant about the intensive sessions to discovering how mediation requires emotional, mental, and practical discipline. He discusses the value of YCM’s role-play-based learning, the importance of the co-mediation model, and how working with people from diverse age groups and professional backgrounds strengthened his understanding of conflict resolution. Azad also talks about applying mediation skills in everyday life, particularly the ability to move parties from positions to underlying interests, and how active listening and patience can transform conflicts into constructive conversations. Key themes discussed:• Discovering mediation through internships and academic exposure• The growing role of mediation in modern legal practice• Learning through role plays and co-mediation exercises• The importance of patience, listening, and emotional awareness in mediation• Why students should explore mediation early in their careers This episode offers practical insights for students and young professionals who are curious about mediation and want to understand how dispute resolution skills can shape both their professional path and everyday interactions.

Welcome to the very first episode of the Star Trainees of YCM series, where we spotlight the journeys and reflections of outstanding participants from YCM’s mediation training programs. In this episode, host Faiza Mushrida speaks with Swati Saxena, an advocate, social worker, and community activist who works extensively on women’s rights and conflict resolution in underprivileged communities. Swati shares how her work with NGOs and grassroots dispute resolution inspired her to formally pursue mediation training through YCM’s Young Conflict Managers IMI-certified program. The conversation explores how mediation training helped her refine communication, patience, and conflict-resolution skills, and how those lessons translated into real-life mediation scenarios in community disputes. Swati also reflects on the value of interactive training methods such as role plays, peer learning, and practical exercises that helped shape her mediation practice. Through her story, listeners gain insight into how mediation can bridge the gap between legal frameworks and community-level conflict resolution. Key themes discussed:• How social activism and NGO work led to mediation practice• Practical skills gained from mediation training• The importance of patience, communication, and active listening• Applying mediation techniques in real-world community disputes• Why ADR and mediation are becoming essential skills for the future This episode offers inspiration for students, professionals, and anyone interested in learning how mediation can create meaningful change in both legal and community settings.

In this episode of the YCM Conversations Series, we speak with Ashpinder Kaur and Rimjhim Kheda, the runner-up negotiating pair at the Samahar Mediation Competition 2025. Both fourth-year law students from Himachal Pradesh National Law University, Ashpinder and Rimjhim share their journey through the competition and reflect on what it takes to succeed as a negotiating duo. They discuss how strong coordination, understanding party interests, and maintaining spontaneity in negotiations played a crucial role in their performance. The conversation also highlights the unique challenge of negotiating in matrimonial dispute scenarios, a less commonly explored area in mediation competitions. From handling difficult negotiation moments to managing pressure during the finals, the duo share valuable insights into teamwork, preparation strategies, and the importance of practical and realistic settlement proposals. The episode concludes with advice for students preparing for negotiation competitions and reflections on the growing importance of mediation and negotiation in modern legal practice. Key themes discussed:• Preparing as a negotiation pair for mediation competitions• Understanding interests and developing realistic settlement proposals• Managing pressure during final rounds of competitions• The role of coordination and synergy between negotiating partners• Why mediation and negotiation are becoming essential skills for law students