'Talented and dignified' team win silver in Paris

Kyla Rivera, Lina Zaioor, Lihara Delungahawatte and Rhea Baweja have won second place in the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) International Commercial Mediation Competition (ICMC) held recently in Paris, France.

UNSW Law & Justice Dean, Professor Andrew Lynch, expressed his pride in the team's achievement. "Our students have once again demonstrated their capabilities on an international platform. Their dedication, hard work, and exceptional skills are commendable and reflect the high standards of our university." 

This year's competition saw participation from 48 teams representing top law schools across the globe. The team demonstrated excellence in the highly competitive global competition, showcasing exceptional negotiation, mediation, and legal strategy skills. 

Rhea Baweja reflected on her journey: "Training for this competition taught me invaluable skills in interest-based negotiation, communication, and dispute resolution that will benefit me as a lawyer and person. The friendships and connections I have made with my teammates and peers from around the world are truly special." 

Lina Zaioor shared her experience: "Participating in the ICC International Commercial Mediation Competition has been the highlight of my law school journey. This experience has enriched my understanding of interest-based negotiation and equipped me with the skills and confidence to navigate real-world disputes." 

The ICC International Commercial Mediation Competition, opens in a new window is renowned for its rigorous standards and challenging scenarios that test participants' abilities to resolve complex commercial disputes through mediation. The competition provides a unique opportunity for law students to gain practical experience and develop their skills in a real-world context. 

Kyla Rivera added: "Preparing for and competing in the ICC Mediation Competition was the most invaluable learning experience in my entire university career. It challenged me to think critically under pressure and develop a deeper understanding of the value of mediation." 

Lihara Delungahawatte said, "Participating in the ICC International Commercial Mediation Competition has been the most transformative experience of my law school journey. The friendships I've formed with my teammates and fellow competitors are ones I will cherish forever." 

Expert mediator and coach Steve Lancken highlighted the team's resilience: "The 2025 team continued the traditions of UNSW teams having great success and representing the law school and their country with dignity and respect. Lina, Rhea, Kyla, and Lihara overcame some unexpected obstacles to achieve their remarkable success. It is always a pleasure to work with the talented and dignified students of UNSW Law & Justice."