Keeping it Out of Courts: A Unique Approach to ADR
HLOs: 
Ashifa Alibhai, the proprietor of AHANSA Mediation Services, guides the way by prioritizing awareness and accessibility for individuals, couples, and small business owners. With expertise in dispute resolution, she assists in developing strategies, advocates for the benefits of mediation, and ensures marketability and value-added services such as interpretation and translation. Additionally, she plays a crucial role in collaborating with the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) program, led by Mary Lee, Program Co-ordinator, offering students placement and internship opportunities to enhance their theoretical knowledge and understanding gained from the comprehensive programming.
During the placement and internship opportunities, Ashifa ensures each student receives practical experience by implementing a hands-on approach, starting with the lead development process, followed by observing an intake process and case development process and maintaining consistent engagement with the client to ensure that mediation ultimately offers the parties an opportunity to resolve their issues.
Another innovative approach to private mediation, coined as "keeping you out of court," is centred on the concept of "the meeting of the minds," where parties are encouraged to creatively resolve their issues on their terms before considering legal action. Recently, Ashifa attended various networking events with the students, including the Bizcon Business Expo, the ADR Institute of Ontario (ADRIO) Networking Mixer, the Livelihood Improvement Community Organizations (LICO) Business and Networking Expo, and the Black Health and Mental Wellbeing Event, providing opportunities for small businesses and clients to network and exchange ideas with potential clients and leads.
Student Feedback:
“Working with AHANSA Mediation Services has been a great moment in my career development as I was exposed to the real world of ADR. I have been able to practice and by direct involvement, witness some of the skills that I acquired in class while at Humber being implemented. With this experience, I look forward to positively impacting society through ADR.” - Kelvin
“AHANSA Mediation Services is the best! I was at their location at 45 Sheppard Avenue, precisely Unit 411 for my internship. The ambience made it easy to feel at ease. Ashifa was professional with a touch of friendliness through it all. I will be visiting again pretty soon. Thank you AHANSA!” - Deladem
While recognizing the significance of exploring alternatives to litigation in certain circumstances, the focus shifts toward regarding court proceedings as a final option rather than the primary avenue for conflict resolution. Embracing ADR methods, such as conciliation, mediation, or negotiation, offers numerous benefits including cost savings, time efficiency, relationship preservation, outcome control, and heightened privacy not only facilitates quicker and more cost-effective resolutions but also ensures satisfaction for all parties involved.
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