Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) College of Law, in cooperation with the law firm of Al Tamimi & Company, recently co-hosted the Sixth Arab Lawyers Forum’s Young Lawyers session, welcoming early-career legal practitioners from across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) for a series of talks and networking.

Susan L. Karamanian, Dean, College of Law, greeted attendees with an opening speech, drawing from her various leadership roles in law schools and learned societies, such as the American Society of International Law. She also provided practical advice for professionals looking to take the next step in their legal careers.

“Touchstone events like the Arab Lawyers Forum provide meaningful opportunities for young lawyers and practitioners in the region to absorb insights from more experienced peers and augment their professional development. Our collaboration with the Arab Lawyers Forum demonstrated our commitment to building national and regional capacities and preparing the next generation of Arab leaders in the field of law.”

The above video features highlights from the 6th Arab Lawyers Forum

The Young Lawyers Session featured several distinguished speakers, including Her Excellency Dr. Rania Al Mashat, Minister of International Cooperation, Egypt, who shared lessons from her vast experience in financial systems, monetary policy frameworks, sustainable development, and more. U.S. Ambassador (Ret.) David L. Carden, Weinstein International Foundation, gave a special presentation on the crucial significance of fostering a culture of mediation within the region, underscoring its pivotal role in contributing to enduring peace and cooperation.

Judge Hessa Al Sulaiti, Court of Appeals, Qatar, reflected on her status as Qatar’s first female judge and how her success paved the way for other Qatari women to join the judiciary and the legal profession. Joining the conversation was Qatari lawyer, Mr. Salman Al Ansari, who shared insights into the growing field of sports law in Qatar. Mr. Al Ansari is also an HBKU Law student in the College’s Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) program.

The event concluded with a networking session, in which attendees connected with one another to foster knowledge exchanges across multiple legal disciplines spanning the MENA region.