Where to Start? How to Enter the World of International Negotiation and Mediation Competitions

International negotiation and mediation competitions have long become an important part of professional education for students around the world. They provide not only valuable knowledge but also an opportunity to experience mediation and negotiation in practice, develop communication skills, work with conflicts, analyze parties’ interests, and search for mutually beneficial solutions.

During this panel discussion, participants will explore the role of international competitions in shaping the next generation of legal professionals and other specialists. Speakers will share their experiences as competitors, organizers, judges, and coaches, while discussing the opportunities these initiatives create for students. Organizers, judges, trainers, and participants will come together to share their journeys and inspire those who are just beginning to explore the world of negotiation and mediation.

Event Information

Date: June 9, 2026

Time: 10:15–11:45 EEST (Kyiv, GMT+3)

Moderator

Nataliia Mazaraki - Doctor of Law, Professor at the State University of Trade and Economics.

Speakers

Mary Lou Frank (USA) - PhD, MSc, psychologist, court mediator, mediation trainer, and consultant.

Kenneth Frank (USA) - President of the International Academy of Dispute Resolution (INADR), judicial arbitrator, and Professor at Brenau University.

Thomas John - international mediator, arbitrator, and legal consultant with experience in commercial, arts, and government law.

Kateryna Manetska - LL.M, lawyer, member of INADR, mediator at Aspire Dispute Resolution & Innovation.

Ruslan Mirzaiev - Head of Education and Training at the ICC International Court of Arbitration.

Yuliia Shumylo - second-year Master's student in Law at Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, participant in international mediation and negotiation competitions.

Who Will Benefit from the Event?

The panel will be valuable for students from various disciplines, educators, mediation and negotiation trainers, university representatives, competition organizers, young lawyers, and everyone interested in developing dialogue, negotiation, and constructive conflict resolution skills.

The event is organized by the Ukrainian Academy of Mediation in partnership with the European Commission for the Efficiency of Justice (CEPEJ) and with the financial support of the European Union within the framework of the EU Project "CONSENT".