Read the full interview below:

Q: From your perspective, what are some of the key considerations the Committee keeps in mind when designing the competition?

What a privilege it is to contribute to the set-up of a new international mediation competition for students. There are, of course, many aspects to consider and incorporate: innovative formats with new and engaging elements; fair and relevant judging criteria; transparent and meaningful selection processes for participating teams and experts; an appropriate level of challenge combined with a good overall balance; sensitivity to intercultural differences; and ensuring that best mediation practices can be demonstrated.

However, I believe that at the centre of all these considerations should always be the students’ learning experience. Whatever we implement, suggest, or innovate, we must ask: Does this serve the students’ learning? Will this element enable them to gain a deeper understanding of mediation, its promise, its potential, and its current role in resolving complex, cross-border (commercial) disputes? In my view, this should guide all our decisions when designing the Maxwell Challenge.

Q: What key professional skills does the Maxwell Challenge aim to cultivate, and why are they essential for effective dispute resolution?

In my experience, moots, mediation competitions, and the Maxwell Challenge cultivate a wide range of professional skills, some specific to mediation, others more general. These include public speaking, teamwork, performing under pressure and within time constraints, communicating across linguistic and cultural differences, adapting to different mediation styles, analysing complex problems, and responding quickly to new scenarios and evolving facts.

Above all, I hope that every competition – and the Maxwell Challenge in particular! – helps students develop three fundamental elements of effective dispute resolution: the ability to truly listen to the other side’s perspective; the capacity to ask open and meaningful questions driven by genuine curiosity; and the ability to step into the other party’s shoes with empathy.

Q:How does your approach to mediation shape the way you achieve effective and sustainable resolutions?

As is often the case, I believe it is a combination of factors. First, I am strongly motivated to bring the right people to the table and to ensure that everyone who should be part of the conversation is included whenever possible. This also explains my belief in the power – and sometimes the magic!– of joint sessions and direct dialogue.