SIArb hosted its inaugural SIArb YPN Networking & Drinks event in 2023. This is organised in conjunction with other young practitioners network - namely, the Young SIAC (YSIAC), the Young International Council for Commercial Arbitration (ICCA), and the International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR) Young & International (Y&I). The event was aimed at young practitioners in the arbitration field and provided them with the opportunity to network with fellow peers, learn more about SIAC's work, and gain valuable insights on how to secure their first arbitrator appointment.
The forum was moderated by Ms Cathryn Neo – Co-Chair of Young Practitioners Network, Singapore Institute of Arbitrators; Partner, PDLegal LLC, and comprised 3 experienced panelists : Ms. Aastha Chawla – Director, AAA-ICDR Asia Case Management Centre; Ms. Jennifer Lim – Partner, Sidley Austin LLP, Singapore; Member, YSIAC Committee; and Mr. Adam Maniam - Director, Drew & Napier LLC
The event was oversubscribed with more than 50 attendees signed up. It kicked off with an opening speech by Ms Meera Rajah, the Co-chair of YPN, who welcomed the attendees and shared interesting statistics about new arbitrators in different centres.
The Moderator then started the forum by having each of the Panelists share how they started their career in arbitration. The Panelists and Moderator held interesting and interactive exchanges, sharing valuable insights on how to secure your first appointment like being active in the arbitration community to build your visibility and reputation, how to use social media to help etc. They balanced it by sharing what not to do and cautioned that it will take time and effort.
The post event drink session provided an opportunity for attendees to network with other young practitioners in the field. The attendees were encouraged to engage in discussions with each other and to exchange ideas and experiences. The event provided a relaxed and informal atmosphere, which allowed attendees to connect with their peers and build new relationships.
Overall, the SIArb YPN Networking & Drinks event was a resounding success. It provided young practitioners in the arbitration field with valuable insights and networking opportunities that will help them advance their careers.
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Reported by:
Eugenia Tay