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Andreea PlesuI am a procurement and project management professional with over 10 years of experience in defence, engineering, and manufacturing environments. Alongside this career path, I am advancing my expertise in mediation, negotiation, and conflict resolution, combining operational leadership with an evolving focus on international relations and defence strategy.United Kingdom (UK)anitractuckerAnitra C. Tucker is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience spanning government, healthcare, and social services, bringing a unique blend of investigative, compliance, and case management expertise to the fields of mediation and arbitration. Her career began in public service, where she conducted child welfare investigations, developed home study assessments, and collaborated with courts, law enforcement, and community providers to ensure safety and stability for vulnerable families. This early foundation sharpened her ability to assess complex situations, document findings with precision, and balance empathy with regulatory compliance. In healthcare, Anitra advanced into managed care, compliance, and program management roles where she specialized in payer contracting, revenue recovery, and appeals. She led initiatives that overturned denials, recovered significant underpayments, and improved payer relationships through negotiation, contract adherence, and dispute resolution. She also gained extensive experience with grievance and appeals processes, utilization management, and the No Surprises Act independent dispute resolution (IDR), equipping her with a strong foundation for navigating complex payer-provider disputes. Beyond healthcare, Anitra’s work in behavioral health, employee assistance, and disaster response demonstrates her versatility in handling high-stakes, emotionally charged situations. Whether guiding families through crises, coordinating access to resources, or auditing compliance with federal regulations, she has consistently been recognized for her ability to foster trust, build consensus, and drive fair, sustainable outcomes. Today, Anitra channels her extensive cross-sector experience into mediation and arbitration. With a commitment to integrity, fairness, and collaboration, she empowers individuals, providers, and organizations to resolve disputes constructively while preserving relationships and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.United States (US)BarkhaBansalBarkha Bansal is an accomplished academic specializing in the intersection of law and finance. She holds an LL.M. in Corporate Finance from OP Jindal Global University, where she is currently appointed as an Assistant Lecturer. Ms. Bansal is further advancing her expertise by pursuing a Ph.D. from Euclid University in the USA, demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning and academic excellence in her field. I am driven to join the World Mediation Organization because of a deep-seated belief in the power of constructive dialogue to resolve complex conflicts, particularly in the realm of corporate and financial disputes. My academic and professional journey—from earning an LL.M. in Corporate Finance to my current role as an Assistant Lecturer—has shown me that traditional legal and litigation-based approaches, while necessary, can often be costly, time-consuming, and damaging to long-term relationships. I am eager to apply my specialized knowledge to the WMO’s mission, contributing to a global platform that provides more flexible, efficient, and collaborative solutions. Joining this organization would not only allow me to grow as a professional but also to contribute to a movement that champions peaceful and sustainable conflict resolution, a goal that I believe is critical for fostering a more harmonious and stable global community.IndiaAllenMarrettPappoeI hold a Master’s degree in International Security Management from the Berlin School of Economics and Law (HWR Berlin) and have professional experience in governance, risk, and compliance (GRC), cybersecurity, and international relations. My career journey has included roles across governmental, finance and private security sectors, where I contributed to crisis management and incident response. Alongside my professional background, I have pursued advanced training in cybersecurity and compliance frameworks such as ISO 27001, GDPR, and NIST. My vision in joining WMO is to contribute to advancing research that bridges the fields of conflict management and cybersecurity. I believe that cyber incidents are not only technical challenges but also conflicts that require negotiation, mediation, and trust-building to resolve effectively. By publishing in WMO’s journal, I aim to explore how mediation frameworks can provide innovative approaches to managing digital disputes, fostering resilience, and strengthening global cooperation in the face of evolving cyber threats.GermanySidneyMarriottI am an undergrad student in the Peace and Development program at Linnaeus University in southern Sweden. With a strong foundation in qualitative and quantitative research, I have developed expertise in policy, conflict, and gender analysis. I have experience in researching conflict related sexual violence and the experiences after holistic care of survivors through research projects with the Dr. Mukwege Foundation, specifically in the Central African Republic. As a member of the Växjö student Amnesty group, I have experience in grassroots advocacy and event coordination. Growing up in Sacramento, California, I observed historical political activism, which helped shape my passion for civil rights, policy work, and community development. I envision joining WMO as an intern because its mission aligns with my belief that conflict resolution must respect cultural diversity while fostering global understanding. The organization’s focus on Mindful Mediation resonates with my own values to address conflicts at their human core, not just surface symptoms. I aspire to have a career in researching conflict and conflict resolution and I am hoping that this internship can assist me in achieving my long-term life goals. As an intern, I would like to participate in a global network of mediation as both a science and a process of healing.SwedenMuhammadAneesI am presently studying my LL.B. from the University of Peshawar with a CGPA of 3.75, with major interest in international law, corporate law, ADR, and criminal law. My theoretical knowledge in mediation involves participating in the 1st National Mediation Competition, where I made it to the semi finals, and interning at Insafdaar, an Alternative Dispute Resolution platform, where I helped resolve civil disputes and led parties through the process of mediation. I attended international workshops on peace negotiations, mediation, and human rights. My desire to become a part of the World Mediation Organisation is inspired by the goal of fostering peaceful, dialogue-based solutions to disputes. WMO, for me, represents the perfect platform to use my legal education and experience in mediation as a tool for engagement in an international, diverse environment. Through this internship, I hope to further develop my skills in cross-border mediation, learn from seasoned practitioners, and make valuable contributions to the promotion of alternative dispute resolution. My ultimate dream is to apply these abilities to promote justice, equity, and lasting peace both locally and globally.PakistanLyndaOnwunaliAs a Principal Investigation Officer at Public Complaints Commission for over a decade (2014-Present), I have mediated over 1,200 cases, specializing in conflict resolution, human rights, and governance. I hold a BSc in Applied Biology and Biotechnology (Second Class Upper), and admitted to UNITAR’s Master’s Degree in Conflict, Peace, and Security Studies, I am certified in The Peace and Development Nexus in Africa (UNSSC). An associate member of the African Ombudsman Mediators Association (AOMA), I bring both French and Igbo language-speaking skill, and extensive mediation expertise to advance global peacebuilding research. My vision for joining WMO is to advance global peacebuilding by crafting research articles that bridge local mediation practices with international solutions. I aim to contribute to WMO’s ISSN journal by analyzing conflicts through a governance and human rights lens, inspiring dialogue and sustainable strategies. Committed to WMO’s mission to “build together, grow together,” I seek to make an impact by connecting African peacebuilding insights to global frameworks, fostering inclusive resolutions that resonate worldwide.NigeriaShristiKochgawayI am currently pursuing my legal education at The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS), Kolkata—one of India’s premier national law universities. My academic journey so far has been marked by a strong foundation in legal theory, complemented by practical experience and a sustained interest in issues relating to justice, human rights, and international legal frameworks. I have interned with national-level legal aid organisations, where I engaged in case research, drafted legal documents, and worked on matters involving access to justice, undertrial prisoners, and the legal rights of marginalised communities, including transgender individuals and survivors of violence. These experiences allowed me to witness the challenges faced by vulnerable groups within the justice system and strengthened my belief in the importance of rights-based legal support and reform. I also interned at a reputed law firm where I was involved in civil litigation matters. My responsibilities included attending client consultations, preparing legal notices, compiling case files, and conducting research on a variety of legal issues. This experience enhanced my ability to understand the practical aspects of litigation and client advocacy. Additionally, I had the opportunity to work under the guidance of a sitting High Court judge. During this internship, I attended courtroom proceedings, assisted in legal research, drafted briefs, and engaged in discussions on statutory interpretation and judicial reasoning. It was a formative experience that deepened my appreciation for the judicial process and the nuanced application of law in complex disputes. Beyond internships, I hold editorial roles in student-led legal societies focusing on criminal justice and international trade. I recently authored a published article titled “Courts, Controversies, and Change: The Supreme Court’s January Chronicle”, which reflects my interest in contemporary constitutional developments and judicial accountability. These combined experiences have helped me cultivate a strong foundation in legal research, writing, and critical analysis. I am particularly interested in global governance, human rights, and mediation frameworks—areas that align closely with the vision and mission of the World Mediation Organisation. I see WMO as a rare and meaningful platform that blends research with real-world impact. My goal is to contribute intellectually to the global discourse on peacebuilding, conflict transformation, and human rights – not just through legal analysis but also by proposing creative, sustainable solutions. I believe that law and mediation together can redefine how we approach global conflict, and I look forward to being part of this transformative vision at WMO.IndiaAbhishekSharmaI am a third-year B.Sc. LL.B. (Hons.) student at the West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS), Kolkata. Over the past two years, I’ve had the opportunity to intern under leading legal professionals including Senior Advocate Vikas Singh (Supreme Court), the former AAG of U.P., and at institutions like the U.P. State Law Commission. These experiences allowed me to work on a wide range of legal issues—from constitutional and criminal law to property disputes and procedural matters. I am currently an active member of the Civil and Judicial Examination Cell, the Litigation and Clerkship Cell, and the Recruitment and Placement Committee at NUJS. I have a strong interest in constitutional law and public policy and enjoy reading about politics and geopolitics in my free time. My vision for joining the World Mediation Organization is to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of peaceful conflict resolution, particularly in regions affected by displacement, inequality, and political unrest. With a strong academic foundation in public international law and a deep interest in mediation as a tool for justice, I hope to engage with WMO’s global initiatives that promote dialogue over division. I am especially driven to explore how mediation can address the challenges faced by refugee populations, post-conflict societies, and underrepresented voices in global diplomacy. Through this internship, I aspire to deepen my understanding of peacebuilding while supporting WMO’s mission of fostering sustainable global harmony through education, research, and action.IndiaDeekshaPandeyAs a law student, my journey has been deeply enriching, combining theoretical understanding with practical exposure through internships and case observations. I have developed a strong interest in exploring how different branches of law function and interconnect in real-world scenarios. My academic focus has been on criminal and civil law, where I continue to strengthen my knowledge while addressing the gaps through active research and hands-on experience. Joining the World Mediation Organization would provide me with a meaningful platform to deepen my understanding of mediation as a vital tool for conflict resolution. I am eager to explore how mediation can address disputes not only at the international level but also within domestic contexts. This opportunity will allow me to amplify my voice through writing and contribute to global peacebuilding efforts by analyzing and promoting mediation as a constructive legal process.Indiasantiago.conflictologyI am Santiago, 25 years old. I have worked as part of the Staff team on an addiction recovery clinic, resolving Conflict amongst patients. I have experience in public speaking with high honors. I also have worked on Software and developing brain computer interfaces. My life compass is understanding conflict and building peace. I am certified by completing a course on Social Mediation from Universidad Antonio de Nebrija, Madrid, Spain. My vision is to integrate all of my knowledge to create a peaceful environment for people struggling with addictions and build a more harmonious society.MexicoSeydaPeveyAs a recent graduate from the University of Miami, I hold a B.A. in International Studies with minors in Law & Politics and English Literature. My interdisciplinary, research-intensive education culminated in a senior capstone project—currently slated for publication—with Americas Market Intelligence (AMI), where I analyzed the geopolitical dynamics of lithium production in Chile. Beyond academics, I contributed to The Miami Hurricane, the student newspaper, and co-developed a psychologically informed policy proposal presented to local elected officials through the Civic Synergy x Hanley Democracy Center program—strengthening my commitment to inclusive, solutions-driven policy development. In a world increasingly shaped by polarization and systemic trauma, peace demands more than the absence of conflict—it requires sustained collaboration, empathy, and innovation. I am eager to contribute to WMO’s mission of cultivating a culture of peace. With a deep passion for writing, dialogue, and cross-cultural understanding, I’m inspired by WMO’s commitment to building bridges across differences as the world’s complexity must not be reduced to simplistic solutions or fear—it’s a strength to be met with nuance, humility, and curiosity.United States (US)RiyaSharmaRiya Sharma is a fourth-year B.L.S. LL.B. student at Thakur Ramnarayan College of Law, Mumbai, with a strong passion for mooting, debating, legal drafting, and research. She is currently the Co-head of Alternative Dispute Resolution Society at her college, actively organizing various events and seminars in her college. She has taken on key leadership roles, including Head of the Legal Aid Cell, Co-head of the ADR Society, Student Manager for the Department of Lifelong Learning and Extension and Student Member of the Research Committee. These roles have allowed her to organize impactful events, collaborate with diverse teams, and promote student engagement. Riya is particularly inclined toward Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), seeing it as a more humane, collaborative, and sustainable form of conflict resolution. She firmly believes that “Mediation empowers individuals to resolve disputes through dialogue rather than discord.” She is also the Chief Community Catalyst at Law Firm Ready, a national mentorship initiative, and a ground-level worker with Nari Shakti Morcha, promoting menstrual hygiene and women's empowerment. With a keen interest in Intellectual Property Rights, Riya has completed several certifications and participated in related competitions. She is a dynamic learner, known for her creativity, leadership, and commitment to personal and professional growth. My vision to join WMO stems from my deep interest in alternative dispute resolution, particularly mediation as a tool for sustainable peace and justice. I aspire to enhance my knowledge and contribute meaningfully to the field through high-quality research that fosters academic discourse and promotes global awareness. I believe WMO’s global platform will provide me with a valuable opportunity to learn and grow while contributing to the mediation movement.IndiaPrithaDuttaI am currently pursuing my third year of law at the West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS), Kolkata, one of India’s premier law schools. Prior to joining NUJS, I completed my schooling at Ashok Hall Girls' Higher Secondary School, Kolkata, where I was entrusted with the role of Class Representative for two consecutive years, demonstrating my leadership abilities and strong interpersonal skills. During my time at NUJS, I have undertaken a research assistantship under the guidance of Mr. Faisal Fasih, Assistant Professor, where I engaged in extensive legal research, analyzed complex legal issues, and contributed to academic projects that deepened my understanding of contemporary legal frameworks. Additionally, I have actively participated as a researcher in moot court competitions, where I honed my legal research, drafting, and argumentation skills through the rigorous preparation of memorials and legal briefs. This experience has not only strengthened my ability to analyze legal principles but also enhanced my capacity to present cogent legal arguments effectively. Furthermore, I have been involved in various Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) competitions, which provided me with the opportunity to develop critical negotiation and mediation skills while working under pressure in simulated dispute resolution scenarios. These experiences have collectively enriched my academic journey, equipping me with a robust foundation in legal research and advocacy. My vision for joining the WMO as a research intern is driven by a strong commitment to advancing my legal research skills while contributing to the organization’s mission of fostering global legal discourse and promoting access to justice. As a third-year law student with substantial research experience, including a research assistantship under Mr. Faisal Fasih, Assistant Professor at NUJS, I am keen to expand my understanding of transnational legal frameworks and contemporary international disputes. The opportunity to work at WMO will not only allow me to deepen my expertise in areas such as dispute resolution, international arbitration, and legal policy analysis but also provide me with a platform to engage with complex, real-world legal issues that transcend national boundaries. Moreover, collaborating with a diverse cohort of legal professionals and researchers at WMO will enable me to gain invaluable insights into global legal practices and develop a nuanced perspective on emerging legal challenges. I am particularly interested in exploring how legal research can inform policy-making and facilitate the resolution of international disputes effectively. By working under the guidance of experienced mentors and engaging in rigorous research projects, I aim to refine my analytical capabilities, enhance my legal writing, and contribute substantively to ongoing projects at WMO. Ultimately, this experience will not only augment my academic and professional growth but also align with my long-term goal of pursuing a career in international law and dispute resolution, where impactful legal research plays a pivotal role.IndiaGianlucaOversluijsI am a final-year Political Science student at Complutense University of Madrid. Studies that I also complemented during my exchange year in Oslo. I have also developed hands-on-experience through volunteer work: leading a team at a children's cancer shelter, tutoring IB students in history with successful results, and contributing to a community based NGO project in the Balkans that supported cultural and educational inclusion. These experiences have shaped a profile that blends both academic curiosity with initiative and a strong commitment to social impact. I see joining the WMO as an interesting space where critical inquiry, ethical engagement, and practical contribution come together. I hope to apply my academic knowledge and field experience to topics relevant to the organisation. The opportunity to write essays, exchange perspectives, and be part of a project grounded in the pursuit of understanding and dialogue is the kind of challenge I look for.SpainAshvin BhalekarI am a lawyer, litigation expert, property project consultant, mediator, and arbitrator. I intend to make a positive contribution to the fields of law and conflict resolution by combining academic research with real-world practice. My goal is to help improve legal systems and ensure better access to justice, while also developing practical and inclusive ways to resolve conflicts peacefully. Part of this vision includes drawing from ancient Indian wisdom, especially ideas found in the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita, and connecting them with today’s methods of resolving disputes. I believe these teachings offer valuable lessons in self-awareness, responsibility, and non-violence that can support fair and thoughtful conflict resolution today. I aim to blend research, practical solutions, and timeless knowledge to help create more just and peaceful communities.IndiaQuentinTurnerI hold a Bachelor of Arts in History & Political Science from Hamline as well as a Masters in Heritage Studies & Public History from the University of Minnesota's College of Design. Am an experienced event organizer, notary, qualified neutral, & public historian. I have worked in higher education, intercultural organizations, & abroad in Zanzibar as part of a research survey team. I have cultivated technical & experiential skills in order to bring people together for enhanced engagement, facilitate greater understandings regarding various levels of conflict, & to explore the complex intersectionalities of our pasts & presents in order to achieve a better collective future. My interest in WMO stems from my long term interests in conflict studies, diplomacy, mediation, & international cooperation. As someone who has been fortunate to travel the world in meaningful capacities, I wish to contribute towards deepening international connections, healing difficult histories, expanding training & resources, & facilitating meaningful gatherings that could lead to truth, harmony, & peace.United States (US)bssekamuliBenjamin Ssekamuli is a seasoned Water Resources Engineer whose expertise in hydrology, geospatial information management, and integrated water-resource systems’ planning and management has been honed through collaborations with regional bodies across multicultural, multinational settings in transboundary contexts. Recognizing that conflict—from everyday interpersonal disputes to crises sparked by natural disasters—often arises not only from gaps in communication and understanding but also from the limited appreciation of diversity associated with nature, he has dedicated himself to the study and practice of mediation and conflict resolution. As a passionate advocate for peace in a world beset by conflict, and through his affiliation with the World Mediation Organization and other partners, Benjamin blends scientific rigor with culturally sensitive dialogue techniques to foster effective communication, trust-building, reconciliation, and sustainable peace. His ultimate dream is to harness collaborative, data and information-driven mediation to bridge divides and empower individuals, communities, and regions vulnerable to conflict.UgandaNilisaMajumderI am a law student with a great passion in ADR. Further, I explored legal frameworks governing real estate, nuclear, oil, and gas laws, and climate change challenges. I view mediation as the art of turning discord into dialogue, and arbitration as the bridge between conflict and consensus. The World Mediation Organization (WMO) aligns with my vision of fostering peace through mediation, emphasizing intercultural dialogue and non-escalatory dispute resolution. I firmly believe that effective conflict resolution requires a context-driven and culturally adaptive approach. WMO’s interdisciplinary methodology and commitment to mindful mediation resonate with my aspirations to contribute to the evolving field of alternative dispute resolution. The idea that "mediation is not just a process, but a philosophy of coexistence" strongly inspires me. The opportunity to engage with WMO’s distinguished network of mediators and scholars will enable me to refine my skills and deepen my understanding of mediation as a transformative tool. I look forward to integrating my legal expertise with WMO’s mediation framework, collaborating with like-minded professionals, and contributing meaningfully to global peace initiatives.IndiaLynneLang53Lynne has been a resident of the United States all her life and currently resides in Saint Louis, Missouri, USA. She has been active in peace efforts since 1971 in her local community, and in 1998 began training young people and adults in peacbuilding efforts and bullying prevention in schools. She is married and has grown children and grandchildren. She and her husband celebrate 50 years o marriage in May 2025. Lynne is the founder and executive director for Restoration Matters, a nonprofit dedicated to virtue literacy and restorative practices located in St. Louis, Missouri, United States. She is an international speaker, author, and trainer working to transform the quality of relationships within workplaces, schools, and homes. She has worked for over 30 years in public health, managing community coalitions and developing school health and safety curricula. She holds master's degrees in Health Management and Restorative Practices, is an instructor/coach for the International Institute for Restorative Practices (IIRP), and creator of Virtue-Based Restorative Discipline (VBRD). This model for restorative practices is rooted in habits for human excellence. Her background in dispute resolution, conflict transformation, and restorative practices are foundational to her thought leadership in a variety of professional development settings. She worked for the Archdiocese of St. Louis from 2011-2018 and for BJC Healthcare developing safety/violence prevention curriculum from 1998-2011. Publications: Virtue-Based Restorative Discipline: A comprehensive guide (Our Sunday Visitor, 2013) (additional supporting resources published privately by Imagine That Enterprises LLC, St. Louis, MO); PRAISES: Practicing Restorative Practices and Integrating Social-Emotional Skills (Imagine That Enterprises LLC, St. Louis, MO, 2021); Chapter: Restorative Compassion: Upholding Human Dignity Through the Practice of Virtue, Published in Preaching about Racism: Challenge and Journey (Orbis Books, 2023)United States (US)