Mentors
Barbara Warwas
Barbara Warwas is a lector (professor of practice) in Multilevel Regulation at The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS). Barbara has a Ph.D. in Law from the European University Institute. Between 2020 and 2022, Barbara was the Director of the Centre of Expertise on Global Governance at THUAS.
Barbara has long been involved in advancing dispute resolution skills among students and professionals with a view that those are transferable skills relevant for all professionals and citizens. She is the founder of the student-led initiative Arbitras, the hub “for all things ADR.” Between 2020 and 2022, she was the leader of the NRO-funded Comenius Senior Fellow project “Trust MEdiators.” She is also a teacher in the Dispute Resolution Minor at THUAS.
Barbara is the author of The Liability of Arbitral Institutions: Legitimacy Challenges and Functional Responses, published by Springer in 2016, and other publications in the field of international dispute resolution. In 2014, she worked as a drafter, researcher, and administrator for the ground-breaking study on the “Legal Instruments and Practices of Arbitration in the EU and Switzerland,” commissioned by the European Parliament. Before joining THUAS, Barbara worked as visiting counsel in the litigation department at GE Oil & Gas in Florence and the Italian law firm Studio Legale Calabresi Guadalupi.
Amanda Kemshaw
Amanda Kemshaw is a Research Lecturer in the International and European Law Programme at The Hague University of Applied Sciences. She coordinates the Dispute Resolution Minor and has a particular research interest in alternative dispute resolution mechanisms including mediation and international arbitration. Amanda Kemshaw is a seasoned litigation practitioner, having spent 17 years in private practice in leading law firms in both Canada and the Netherlands. Specializing in international arbitration and complex multi-jurisdictional disputes across all areas of industry, she has worked with clients and counsel from across the globe and appeared before numerous courts and international tribunals. She also has extensive experience as mediation counsel and is a certified mediator. Amanda Kemshaw joined THUAS in 2020.
2023-2024 Board
Yelyzaveta Berlinh
I'm Yelyzaveta Berlinh, the Student Coordinator. My main tasks include providing administrative support and bridging connections between our leaders and mentors. I'm here to ensure smooth operations and communication within our team. At 21 years old and currently in my final year of studies, and on an exciting journey of professional growth and learning with my current position at the International Mediation Institute. Introduced to the world of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) during my third year, I was instantly captivated. I'm thrilled to dive deeper into the intricacies of negotiation, arbitration processes, and mediation techniques with you. I'm looking forward to meeting each of you at our upcoming Arbitras events, where we can exchange ideas and foster connections. See you there!
Jakub Kokavec
My name is Jakub Kokavec, I am the Head of Podcasts & Blog Posts. I am a third-year International and European Law student at The Hague University of Applied Sciences. I decided to join Arbitras to further develop my skills and popularize ADR in our university. I have become very interested in ADR after I joined the Dispute Resolution Minor. Additionally, I love podcasts and technology overall so this was the perfect choice. I believe ADR can be used in every aspect of our lives and not just in big dispute resolution cases. I have personally used it during my time in NMUN NYC, and it was of great help.
Maja Frysz
Maja is a second-year law student from Poland. As a leader of Communications within the Arbitras team, Maja takes charge of leading various communication strategies. From promoting Arbitras' projects to maintaining a vibrant social media presence and fostering connections with volunteers. Beyond her communication skills, Maja's passion for photography and movie editing brings a unique dimension to the team. She is also active in various student associations at the University.
Alexandra Ana Cataliou
I am Alexandra Ana Cataloiu, the Head of Events for the 2024 Arbitras board. I am a driven and passionate second-year International law and European law student at the Hague University of Applied Science. I joined Arbitras to discover more about the field of ADR and to connect with other individuals with the same interests. I believe there is a great need for ADR in our everyday lives. These methods of dispute resolution can be used in every circumstance and handle our issues peacefully and smartly. Beyond my professional commitments, I volunteer for the Amnesty International Student Group, where I contribute to their mission of upholding human rights globally.
Members
Sorina Matei
My name is Sorina Matei and I am in my final year of the International and European Law program at The Hague University of Applied Sciences. I joined Arbitras in 2021 out of pure curiosity to discover the field of Alternative Dispute Resolution and meet new people. My passions include travelling, reading fantasy and mystery books, and learning about spirituality. As I have always liked getting involved in extra-curricular activities that aim to help students, I found Arbitras the perfect option for me.
Artur Talpa
Artur Talpa is a second-year LLB student in International and European Law at the Hague University of Applied Sciences, the Netherlands. Born and raised in Chisinau (The Republic of Moldova), he always believed in the rule of law and the efficacy of diplomatic problem-solving methods. Political science and diplomacy are the spheres that correlate with the legal profession, therefore, Artur would like to work in a multicultural environment, looking for ways to improve international relations between countries.
'Arbitras The Hague' is an Organization, which helps students to enhance knowledge about ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) methods and develop the necessary skills for working in this professional environment. Artur Talpa is a member of the Blog Posts and Events departments at Arbitras The Hague.
Rebecca Howard
My name is Rebecca Howard and I'm from Aruba, currently in my second year of studying International European Law at The Hague University of Applied Sciences. I decided to volunteer at Arbitras after being inspired by one of my professors, who spoke passionately about arbitration. Intrigued by its potential impact, especially in the corporate realm, I see alternative dispute resolution as a valuable skill to develop. As I aspire to become a corporate lawyer, I believe mastering conflict resolution is essential for navigating complex business scenarios and serving clients effectively.
Samiya Choudhry
My name is Samiya, currently a fourth-year Law student at The Hague University of Applied Sciences. I've chosen to volunteer with Arbitras to enhance my skills in Alternative Dispute Resolution while embracing the opportunity to engage with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. I've always been captivated by the various approaches people take in mediations and negotiations, yet still manage to find common ground for effective communication. The cross-pollination of ideas is something I deeply appreciate, and Arbitras provides an ideal platform to explore this further. Outside of my legal studies, I have a passion for photography, writing, and delving into under-researched topics, connecting them with well-researched subjects to illuminate new perspectives. Additionally, I'm intrigued by the integration of artificial intelligence into legal practices and how it can enhance problem-solving and efficiency.
Stella Liantsi
My name is Stella Liantsi, and I am a third-year law student from Greece. My aim during these four years of law school is to gain as much experience and knowledge as possible. I have chosen to join Arbitras to explore the field of Alternative Dispute Resolution and to hone my abilities to resolve everyday life conflicts effectively and amicably. As a member of Arbitras, I not only have the opportunity to acquire valuable knowledge but also to be inspired by passionate individuals. Additionally, it allows me to enhance my communication skills, and build a strong network.
Natasya Wahyudin
My name is Natasya Wahyudin and I’m from Indonesia. I’m in my second year of study for my Bachelor of International and European Law at The Hague University of Applied Sciences. I decided to join Arbitras because I was introduced to the world of alternative dispute resolutions by a peer who was a fellow member of Arbitras. The topic came up during a discussion of future career paths and what we will do once we finish university. I was curious about alternative dispute resolutions and decided to attend a few workshops afterward which explained this topic further. From these experiences, I decided to join Arbitras as I believe that by experiencing Arbitras as a fellow general volunteer I could better develop my understanding and skills in alternative dispute resolutions which would not only serve to prepare me for my future career but also for everyday life.
Roxana Fargas Orta
My name is Roxana Fargas Orta, i am originally from Mexico and I am currently pursuing my degree in International and European Law at The Hague University of Applied Sciences. I decided to join Arbitras because of my keen interest in dispute resolution (ADR). I believe that Arbitras offers a unique platform for students. The organization’s commitment to facilitating access to knowledge and skills in ADR resonated with my personal and professional aspirations. I think that by joining this organization I will be able to learn a lot from my peers and professionals. Moreover, my field of interest is cyber-crime prevention. My goal is to work at the intersection of law and technology, where I can contribute to shaping policies to prevent cyber threats. Outside my studies, I enjoy reading science fiction and crime books. Furthermore, I love cooking for my family and friends because I cherish quality time with them. Finally, I look forward to seeing what the future holds with Arbitras.