In this episode of the YCM Conversations Series, we speak with Shayhum, a mediation practitioner from Sri Lanka who has been actively associated with YCM as an ambassador and junior coach.
Shayhum shares how his journey into mediation began during his undergraduate years, when he first encountered mediation training out of curiosity. What started as an academic opportunity soon turned into a long-term professional interest after his team achieved top recognition in a national mediation program in Sri Lanka. Since then, he has continued to engage with mediation training, mentoring, and ADR initiatives.
During the conversation, Shayhum reflects on what makes mediation such a powerful dispute resolution process. According to him, three elements stand out: accessibility, confidentiality, and relationship preservation. Unlike traditional litigation, mediation allows parties to resolve disputes quickly, privately, and in a way that can preserve future relationships.
He also discusses the importance of continuous learning through role plays and structured training, emphasizing that mediation is a skill that improves through practice, feedback, and reflection. From improving listening skills to managing speaking time and communication style, structured mediation exercises play a key role in shaping effective mediators.
The discussion further explores the role of training platforms like YCM in creating opportunities for students, professionals, and individuals from diverse backgrounds to learn mediation early in their careers and build meaningful professional networks.
Key themes discussed in this episode:
• How mediation training sparked Shayhum’s journey into ADR
• Why mediation is accessible, confidential, and relationship-focused
• The role of role plays and feedback in mediator training
• The importance of networking within the mediation community
• How YCM is helping develop the next generation of mediators
This episode offers valuable insights for law students, young professionals, and anyone interested in mediation, negotiation, and alternative dispute resolution.