Law student is a world class mediator

Phoebe Dearden ( Right,) and Emma McAndry at the world student mediator competition

The University of Central Lancashire undergraduate was named the best mediator in the world at a prestigious annual law event.

Third year law student Pheobe, fought off tough opposition at the International Mediation Competition to scoop the Best Student Mediator award.

The 21-year-old competed against 100 other students across the two day event, which saw 42 teams from universities in India, America and Poland amongst others go head to head.

As part of the event, the students were required to take part in two days of training before coming together to compete.

Phoebe said: “I was in genuine shock when I heard my name being called, I just wasn’t expecting it and I kept asking my friends if they were joking.

“I’ve never done anything like this before and I am really proud of myself to have won this award.”

During one of the rounds of the competition, Phoebe, in a team with six other students, had to re-enact a role play scene from an employment dispute between employees.

As mediator, in front of a judge, she had to resolve the issue.

She won her award for genuine compassion for both parties while keeping calm under pressure.

Phoebe also works at the Opportunities Centre in the UCLan Students’ Union and is chairman of the SU Council.

Other UCLan students also enjoyed success , with the male team storming to the semi-finals.

Senior law lecturer Emma McAndry attended the event and added: “Phoebe was tirelessly committed to training and perfecting her craft, and this together with her natural talent, personality and charm secured her first place out of over 100 students from all over the world. I am incredibly proud of her.”