Becoming a mediator in South Africa can be a rewarding career choice for those interested in helping individuals and organizations resolve conflicts outside of the traditional court system. Mediators act as neutral third parties, facilitating discussions and negotiations to reach a mutually acceptable solution to a dispute. If you're interested in becoming a mediator in South Africa, this article will guide you on the steps to follow.
Pre-requisites for becoming a mediator in South Africa
Before starting the process of becoming a mediator in South Africa, there are a few pre-requisites:
- You should have a recognized degree or diploma from an accredited institution. A degree in law or a related field is preferred, but it's not mandatory.
- You should have good communication and problem-solving skills as you'll need to be able to facilitate discussions and negotiations between parties with different perspectives and interests.
- You should have a high level of emotional intelligence, being able to understand the feelings and needs of others.
- You should have a clean criminal record as a mediator should be someone who parties can trust to act impartially and ethically.
Mediation Training
After fulfilling the pre-requisites, you need to undergo professional mediation training. In South Africa, there are several institutions that offer mediation training programs. Look for a reputable institution that is accredited by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA) or the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.
The mediation training program will cover various topics, including alternative dispute resolution methods, legal frameworks for mediation, ethics, and communication skills. The training can take several weeks, depending on the institution you choose.
Getting Accredited by a Mediation Institution
After completing the mediation training, the next step is getting accreditation from an accredited mediation institution. In South Africa, there are several institutions that offer accreditation, including the South African Association of Mediators (SAAM) and the Dispute Settlement Accreditation Council (DiSAC).
The accreditation process involves submitting an application and demonstrating that you've successfully completed mediation training. You might also be required to participate in a mock mediation to demonstrate your skills. If your application is approved, you'll receive a certificate of accreditation, which will allow you to practice as a mediator in South Africa.
Building your Mediation Practice
Now that you're a certified mediator in South Africa, the next step is building your mediation practice. It's important to create a professional network to get referrals from attorneys, community organizations, and other sources. Attend mediation conferences, seminars, and workshops to meet potential clients and build your reputation as a skilled mediator.
You can also advertise your mediation practice on online directories, social media platforms or your website. Ensure that you comply with the ethical rules governing mediator advertising in South Africa.
Conclusion
Becoming a mediator in South Africa can be a fulfilling career, rewarding both financially and mentally. The process involves fulfilling the pre-requisites, undergoing professional mediation training, getting accredited, and building your mediation practice. If you're passionate about resolving conflicts and want to help businesses, organizations, and individuals achieve mutually beneficial solutions, then a career in mediation might be the right choice.
