Law Students and Young Professionals Converge in Birmingham for XXIX National Council Meeting of ELSA UK: Participant Testimonials
From left to right: Francesco Bondi and Stela Negran (plenary chairs); Michail Sarantellis, Anisia Zlătaru, Wilfred Wong, Leon Mihelčić, Aliah Koodoruth, Vivikta Rana Sinha, Isabel Sanchis Ros, Bethany Game (National Board of ELSA United Kingdom 2023/24). University of Birmingham, 26 November 2023. (Photo by Tony Marinescu)
Birmingham, UK – ELSA United Kingdom, a prestigious association of law students, convened in Birmingham from 24th to 26th November 2023 for its XXIX National Council Meeting (NCM). This significant event, hosted by ELSA Birmingham, witnessed the gathering of delegations of Local Groups from all over the country, as well as several guests.
The Council voted on several proposals crucial for the longevity and continuity of the Association. This democratic process reflected ELSA’s dedication to collaborative decision-making and equality. Students and young professionals in the Council applauded as ELSA Edinburgh, ELSA Greenwich, and ELSA Jersey were warmly welcomed as new Local Groups, marking a significant expansion of the ELSA UK Network. Saba Shahid, President of the newly-formed ELSA Edinburgh, expressed the warmth of this inclusion: “We were excited to join the ELSA UK family but the moment we stepped into the NCM it felt as if we had always been a part of that family.” Adding to the excitement, the Council confirmed Aliah Koodoruth, who had been serving on the National Board as a Deputy Vice President since August, as the Vice President in charge of Academic Activities.
Delegates of the Jersey Initiative Group present their Observer Status application to the Council. University of Birmingham, 26 November 2023. (Photo by Tony Marinescu)
National Council of ELSA UK celebrates as three new Local Groups are voted into the Network. University of Birmingham, 26 November 2023. (Photo by Tony Marinescu)
The presence of ELSA UK alumni such as Stela Negran and Francesco Bondi, who chaired the plenaries, was particularly impactful. Their involvement underscored the lasting influence of ELSA on its members, years after their official terms have ended. Amongst the present was also Tony Marinescu, former member of the International Board of ELSA, the National Board of ELSA UK, and current member of the Advisory Board of ELSA UK. Stela Negran, reflecting on her experience and the evolution of the Network, stated: “The dedication of the current National Board, the ELSA spirit of the ELSA UK Council, and the continued expansion of the network are impressive. ELSA made my student years unforgettable through a mix of social and professional experiences, as well as through life-long friendships, and I hope it does the same for the current officers.”
Their contributions not only provided invaluable guidance to the current members but also bridged the gap between past and present, showing the continuity and growth of ELSA UK. This blend of new ideas from current members and wisdom from the alumni created a dynamic and productive environment at the NCM.
Stela Negran and Francesco Bondi, ELSA Alumni. University of Birmingham, 26 November 2023. (Photo by Tony Marinescu)
Participants engaged in diverse workshops, specifically tailored to the needs of Local Officers. These sessions provided valuable insights and practical knowledge, enhancing the skill sets of attendees. Sarah Chen from ELSA QMUL, shared her experience of the marketing workshop, saying it encouraged her to “think more about marketing on a theoretical basis and in a direct way to catch my audience.” Barbora Lhotáková, President of ELSA Durham, reflected on her learning experience as well: “The NCM provided me with an invaluable insight into the spirit of ELSA and its network. I learned more about the formal functioning of the Association during the BEE workshops.” Timo Weyhe, a member of ELSA Kent, further emphasised this, stating, “The workshop on Professional Development gave me a new insight into the many ways ELSA can help its members prepare for their future careers.”
These educational components of the NCM highlight ELSA UK's dedication to fostering an environment where students acquire crucial skills and knowledge beyond the field of law. This focus on learning and growth is a cornerstone of the ELSA experience, preparing members for successful careers.
The NCM featured a range of social events, providing a relaxed atmosphere for members to mingle, unwind, and form lasting friendships. These events were instrumental in strengthening the sense of community within ELSA UK. Sinem Topcan of ELSA Jersey, who is looking forward to attending again in the spring, shared her thoughts: “The true highlight for me during this NCM was the chance to meet ambitious and inspiring individuals and being able to say that we are a part of something common — ELSA.” The friendships and connections formed during these events are often the foundation of future professional collaborations and lifelong bonds within the ELSA Community. Further, they offer a contrast to the professional daytime activities, highlighting ELSA's ability to balance work with enjoyable social interactions. Tsybulskyi Yurii, President of ELSA Jersey, summed up the experience with a familiar adage: “The NCM finally gave me a clear understanding of the phrase ‘work hard, play hard!’”
On Saturday night, attendees of the XXIX National Council Meeting enjoyed a gala dinner at the University of Birmingham’s Edgbaston Park Hotel, made possible by Birmingham Law School, a longstanding supporter of ELSA Birmingham. Birmingham Law School was recognised as a friend of the ELSA UK Network for enabling previous initiatives, including the organisation of the XXII NCM and the Birmingham Regional Round of the Helga Pedersen Moot Court Competition — bringing the prestigious mooting competition to the United Kingdom for the first time. As such, Birmingham Law School has played a significant role in supporting ELSA UK’s efforts to connect, educate, and inspire law students and young professionals nationwide.
Participants of the XXIX NCM of ELSA UK at the gala. Edgbaston Park Hotel, University of Birmingham, 25 November 2023. (Photo by ELSA Birmingham)
Fried Frank, another key sponsor, was noted for its contribution to the event. Students explored the career opportunities provided by this leading legal services firm. Celebrating its transatlantic reach and commitment to nurturing future legal professionals, Fried Frank showcased its significant growth since establishing its London office in 1970.
The weekend was a showcase of the Organising Committee's (OC) dedication and teamwork. Led by ELSA Birmingham, each member played a pivotal role in orchestrating this successful event.
The OC comprised talented individuals including Duru Utku, Elliot Liau, Gurpreet Toor, Max Stevens, Khulsam Musaliar, Somang Chung, Clara Ng, and Taneeka Thirukkumar. Each member brought their unique skills and perspectives to the table, contributing to the comprehensive planning and execution of the NCM.
Duru Utku, President of ELSA Birmingham and Head of the Organising Committee, shared her pride in the team's accomplishment: “From August, the Organising Committee has been diligently working to bring this event together... Their dedication and teamwork were crucial to the success of this event. Seeing our plan come together was amazing... The sense of accomplishment in uniting the entire UK network was simply impeccable.”
Gurpreet Toor highlighted the team's growth and bonding: “The NCM was a tremendous stress test for our committee and society. We tested our capabilities and rose to heights we could have only imagined... We feel as though we have bonded as a team and are looking forward to taking on new challenges together.”
The successful organisation of the NCM stands as a testament to their teamwork, resilience, and commitment to excellence, setting a high benchmark for future events.
Members of the Organising Committee of the XXIX NCM, Board of ELSA Birmingham 2023/24. From left to right: Khulsam Musaliar, Somang Chung, Max Stevens, Duru Utku, Gurpreet Toor, Taneeka Thirukkumar, and Clara Ng (absent from the photograph: Elliot Liau). University of Birmingham, 26 November 2023. (Photo by ELSA Birmingham)
The National Board expressed its appreciation to the Organising Committee and all attendees for making the weekend a resounding success. ELSA United Kingdom, through events like the NCM, continues to solidify its position as a leading platform for law students and young professionals to learn, network, and make a positive impact. The community eagerly anticipates the next gathering at the spring NCM, set to further the Association's mission and reach.
You can see more highlights on ELSA UK’s NCMs Instagram Page, @elsauk_ncms and follow ELSA UK for general updates.
