AMINZ Scholarships | korahipi
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About the AMINZ Scholarships
AMINZ is committed to fostering growth and leadership across all aspects of the dispute resolution sector in Aotearoa New Zealand.
In 2021, we created two AMINZ Scholarships to support this aim. These scholarships are designed to provide future leaders in the profession with support, encouragement and professional development opportunities to enable them to thrive in their chosen field.
Each year, two scholarship are awarded by the AMINZ Scholarship Committee. There is one determinative scholarship (focussed on arbitration), and one consensual scholarship (focussed on mediation). The scholarships are announced 1 April and the Awards will be held by the successful scholars until 31 March the following year.
Why apply for the AMINZ Scholarship?
AMINZ Scholarships represent more than financial support; they are an investment in your professional growth and are designed to offer tailored learning experiences.
As a scholarship recipient, you will:
Be mentored by a senior AMINZ member, receiving personalised guidance and support throughout your scholarship year.
Observe real dispute resolution processes for a minimum of six days alongside experienced professionals, gaining valuable practical insights.
Present at the Annual AMINZ Conference, sharing your reflections and contributing to discussions shaping the future of dispute resolution.
Enjoy a two-year AMINZ Affiliate membership, giving you access to a nationwide network of professionals, resources, and exclusive events.
Receive financial support of up to $2,500, inc GST, to help cover costs incurred during your scholarship period.
Conclude your scholarship year with a reflective report to the AMINZ Council, offering your perspective on how AMINZ can further promote diversity and inclusion within the sector.
Scholarship Partner
AMINZ is thrilled to continue its partnership with the College of Law for the AMINZ Scholarships. This partnership supports the development of emerging dispute resolution professionals by providing access to high-quality training, professional development opportunities, and networking to help scholars excel in arbitration and mediation.
Who is Eligible
AMINZ Scholarships are open to individuals with a genuine interest in dispute resolution who are committed to developing their knowledge, skills, and leadership in the field. Applicants must be based in Aotearoa New Zealand and demonstrate:
A clear commitment to pursuing a career or ongoing involvement in dispute resolution
Evidence of initiative, integrity, and a willingness to contribute to the profession
An interest in engaging with the AMINZ community and its values
You do not need to be an existing AMINZ member to apply. Applications are encouraged from people at all stages of their professional journey who share a passion for excellence in dispute resolution.
Important dates for 2026
Applications Close: Sunday 1 March at 5 pm
Scholarship Recipients Announced: Wednesday 1 April 2026
AMINZ Conference: Friday 7 August 2026
Details about the Award
Find out about what each scholar receives as part of their Award and the Scholarship Rules
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Scholars are allocated a senior AMINZ member as a dispute resolution mentor, for the year of their AMINZ Scholarship
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Scholars receive observation opportunities, with one or more senior dispute resolution practitioners, of a determinative or consensual process, according to which AMINZ Scholarship they have. That is, sitting in on an arbitration/s or mediation/s.
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Scholars are allocated a speaking slot at the annual AMINZ Conference in the year of their AMINZ Scholarship, on any dispute resolution topic of their choice (subject to Conference Committee approval)
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Scholars receive free AMINZ membership at affiliate level for two years (or a discount on membership fees to that level if they are already a member)
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Receive support of up to $2500 (including GST, if any), by way of reimbursement for costs incurred, in the year of their AMINZ Scholarship, for:
(i) Travel to, accommodation at, and attendance at the AMINZ Conference; and
(ii) Such expenses as may be associated with attendance at other AMINZ educational or networking events
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The learnings aren’t just one-way! Scholars provide a 1500 word report to the AMINZ Council, at the conclusion of the year of their AMINZ Scholarship, on how they think AMINZ might better promote diversity, within itself, and in dispute resolution
How to apply
To apply, download and complete the AMINZ Scholarship Application Form. Your application must include:
A personal statement (up to 500 words) outlining your interest in dispute resolution, your career goals, and how the scholarship will support your development
A current CV detailing your education, professional experience, and any relevant achievements
The names and contact details of three referees who can support your application
Please submit your completed application and all supporting documents to institute@aminz.org.nz.
Applications for 2025 have now closed.
2025 AMINZ Scholars
We are delighted to announce this year’s recipients of the 2025 AMINZ Scholarships: Lydia Sharpe (Determinative Scholar – focussed on arbitration) and Celia Brownlee (Consensual Scholar – focussed on mediation).
Lydia and Celia represent rising leaders, who are shaping the future of Aotearoa New Zealand’s dispute resolution sector. “The AMINZ Scholarships are an important part of AMINZ’s commitment to growing diversity in dispute resolution, and developing the stars of the future,” says AMINZ Committee Chair, Mark Kelly. “We had some fantastic applications this year, and some really difficult decisions to make. The Scholars who have been selected are amazing young practitioners who I am sure will go far.” Read more about the scholars here.
“I am incredibly grateful to be the recipient of the AMINZ Determinative Scholarship for 2025. I am particularly looking forward to progressing my skills in arbitration through working with a mentor, and forging new connections within the AMINZ community.”
Lydia Sharpe Determinative Scholar 2025
“I am excited and incredibly grateful for the opportunities the AMINZ scholarship provides to learn from and become immersed in the AMINZ community, gain ‘real-world’ insight into mediation practice and to be able to contribute to the New Zealand ADR profession.”
Celia Brownlee Consensual Scholar 2025
Spotlight on Past Scholars
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Kim Robinson
2024 | Consensual Scholar
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Zar Sinclair
2024 | Determinative Scholar
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Anna Fuiava
2023 | Determinative Scholar
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Isabelle Kwek
2023 | Consensual Scholar
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Diana Qiu
2022 | Determinative Scholar
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Madison Dobie
2022 | Consensual Scholar
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Sharnika Leleni
2021 | Determinative Scholar
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Tunisia Set Ārena
2021 | Consensual Scholar