Our journey began with the MMCS International Commercial Arbitration Program (MICAP), conducted by the Maldives Moot Court Society as part of the team selection process for the Vis Moot. The program was divided into four phases. In the first phase, we were introduced to the basics of arbitration. This was followed by a focused study of the Convention on the International Sale of Goods (CISG) in the second phase. The third phase emphasized the development of oral advocacy skills, and in the final phase, we competed in a mock moot. This last stage was crucial, as it determined the team that would receive sponsorship and training for the 23rd Willem C. Vis East International Commercial Arbitration Moot.

The Willem C. Vis East International Commercial Arbitration Moot is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious competitions for law students to engage with international commercial law and arbitration. As the sister competition to the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot, it brings together students, practitioners, and academics from across the world to explore how international business disputes are resolved in practice.

As students representing Villa College, we were selected, sponsored and trained by the Maldives Moot Court Society to take part in the 23rd Vis East Moot in Hong Kong. Competing alongside teams from different jurisdictions was both exciting and challenging, as the competition required us to prepare detailed memorandums for both the claimant and the respondent, and then present those arguments in oral hearings before experienced arbitrators.

Once the Moot Problem was released, we worked through it together, breaking down the facts, identifying the legal issues, and researching the relevant laws, we slowly began to build our arguments. The process of drafting the memorandums pushed us to think critically, write clearly, and approach problems from both sides, which was a valuable experience in itself.

One of the most important parts of our preparation was getting the chance to do practice pleadings with other teams before the moot. These sessions were incredibly helpful. Arguing against teams from different backgrounds exposed us to new ways of thinking and different styles of advocacy. More importantly, the feedback we received from arbitrators and peers helped us understand where we needed to improve, whether it was structuring our arguments better, speaking more confidently, or responding more directly to questions. Over time, this made a noticeable difference in how we presented ourselves.

We also attended a Pre-Moot in Egypt from 8th February to 18th February 2026. Competing in multiple rounds and receiving feedback in real time. The Pre-Moot gave us a glimpse of what to expect at the main competition, which made a huge difference when we later stood before tribunals in Hong Kong.

After months of preparation, we travelled to Hong Kong for the main rounds, held from 14th March to 23rd March 2026. Being there, finally presenting our arguments on an international stage, was an unforgettable experience. Each round challenged us in different ways, especially when faced with difficult questions from arbitrators. But it also pushed us to think on our feet and communicate our arguments more effectively. We are also grateful to Maldives Moot Court Society for sponsoring us for the Vis Moot in Hong Kong, which made our participation in the competition possible.

Beyond the competition, what stood out the most was the people we met along the way. Interacting with students, academics, and practitioners from around the world gave us a broader perspective on the law and how it is approached in different jurisdictions. It was also a reminder that mooting is not just about competing, it is about learning, growing, and connecting.

Our Vis Moot journey would not have been possible without the constant support, guidance, and belief of our trainers, Zayan Shareef, Malsaa Ahmed, and Hoona Haneef. From the very beginning, they dedicated their time and effort to help us grow, not only as mooties but also as individuals. Their patience through our learning process, their detailed feedback on both our written work and oral pleadings, and their constant encouragement played a huge role in shaping our confidence and performance. Even during the most stressful moments, they continued to motivate us and push us to do better, reminding us of our potential when we struggled to see it ourselves.

We are also deeply grateful to our advisor, Suma Ilyas, whose unwavering support and belief in us carried us throughout this journey. Her guidance went beyond just academics, she was a constant source of reassurance and encouragement, especially during the more challenging phases of preparation. Knowing that she believed in us made a real difference, and it gave us the strength to keep going.

This journey demanded a great deal of time, effort, and resilience, and it would not have been possible without their collective support. We are truly thankful for everything they have done for us, and for standing by us every step of the way.

Overall, the Vis Moot experience was truly transformative. It helped us develop not only our legal knowledge, but also our confidence, teamwork, and resilience. It is an experience that goes far beyond the classroom, and one that we would strongly encourage other law students in the Maldives to take part in the future editions of the Program.