After a two-year hiatus because of Covid-19 restrictions, SIArb held its Members Networking Night virtually for the first time on 25 May 2021. The event was well-received by our members and guests, who thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect after a lack of formal networking events over the past year or so.
The enthusiasm of our participants was clear as many had dialled onto the virtual platform even before the official start time of the event. Participants were also treated to a generous serving of alcohol and snacks, which included a choice of beer, wine or cocktails that were delivered to their various locations just before the start of the event. SIArb extends its heartfelt thanks to FTI Consulting, who kindly sponsored all food and drinks for our participants in Singapore. Although the event was intended to be for local participants for whom delivery of food and drinks could be arranged, we were delighted to welcome overseas participants who were also keen to participate.
The event started with a short address from Mr Dinesh Dhillon, President of SIArb, and James Nicholson, Senior Managing Director of Economic & Financial Consulting at FTI Consulting. We were then treated to an intriguing interview with Member of Parliament, Mr. Patrick Tay, who is also Assistant Secretary-General and Director (Legal & Strategy) of NTUC and a Fellow of SIArb. Masterfully moderated by the Vice-Chairperson of the SIArb Activities Committee, the interview covered legal and political trends that may impact upon the work of dispute resolution practitioners, as well as Patrick’s personal perspectives on the New Normal in Singapore.
The latter part of the program involved participants being split up into smaller groups to facilitate networking. Participants had a chance to interact through a quick game of Charades which SIArb’s Council members kindly moderated, and many stayed on to chat even after the event was originally scheduled to end.
The inaugural Virtual Members’ Networking Event was a huge success and the SIArb Activities Committee is grateful to our sponsor, Council members, the secretariat, and everyone who participated. We look forward our next event, and an opportunity to catch up with everyone in person soon!
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Reported by:
Tan Weiyi - Harry Elias Partnership LLP