Studying at IMLI is a unique experience. It is the only institution in the world that trains professionals undertaking the LL.M. in International Maritime Law in legislative drafting .Being a lawyer, I find it particularly interesting to learn drafting legislations as it is relevant in my day to day work. Studying at IMLI gives you the opportunity to meet professionals from around the world and thus help create a diverse professional network . The Staff at IMLI are indeed very helpful and experts in the maritime field and thus the students studying at IMLI can benefit from their know how which according to me is of upmost importance. I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the Nippon Foundation for awarding me the Scholarship to carry out the LL.M. in International Maritime Law at IMLI. The knowledge gained at IMLI will enable me to implement international conventions into domestic law by efficiently drafting Act of Parliaments. it will also enable in providing  coherent and efficient legal advise to the Government regarding maritime issues. I wholeheartedly thank the Nippon Foundation for this unique opportunity.  

The opportunity that was afforded to me to study at IMLI, in the academic year 2005/2006, was a real turning point in my life. From being a government legal officer, specializing in purely criminal matters, the study of international maritime law broadened my horizons into another interesting and challenging sphere of law. That opportunity would not have been a reality if not for the scholarship which was granted to me by the The Nippon Foundation. The knowledge and expertise I acquired at IMLI in international law, law of the sea, shipping law, marine environmental law and maritime security law, and the specialized training I received in the drafting of maritime legislation has  proved to be invaluable. On my return home, whenever a matter relating to any maritime issue was referred to the Attorney General’s Department, where I was then employed, it was usually me who was called upon to provide the opinion and advice. I could discharge my duties with a great sense of proficiency primarily due to the techniques and skills I had acquired at IMLI. This journey has now culminated with my appointment as The Nippon Foundation Lecturer in International Maritime Security Law at IMLI. As the first holder of this prestigious chair, I must reiterate that none of this would have been made possible if not for the generous funds offered by the Nippon Foundation.

The Nippon Foundation has made my dream, a reality. I hold the current post of Crown Counsel, attached to the Attorney General of the Federation St. Kitts and Nevis. As Crown Counsel, I am the legal advisor and advocate for all governmental departments within the Federation. My decision to apply to IMLI was primarily based on its excellent reputation and the strong recommendation of the Hon. Vincent Byron Jr, the Attorney General of St. Kitts and Nevis. I was further encouraged by Mr. McClean Hobson, former director of the Maritime Affairs whose professional opinion I trust. Safety of not only our people but the economy on a whole heavily depends on maritime laws. Undoubtedly, the ocean has provided significant benefits for the people of St. Kitts and Nevis ranging from facilitating the importation of food, as well as the cruise line industry. The staff at IMLI provided a safe and encouraging learning environment and were a constant reminder of why I chose this area of law. What was beautiful about this opportunity was being surrounded by individuals from different countries that have an interest in ocean-related issues. The possibilities for problem solving and finding solutions increase when opinions and knowledge are shared. I gained an in-depth understanding of the different areas of maritime law through the IMLI LLM program, which allowed me to be more confident in identifying, detecting, and pinpointing not only current challenges, but also possible challenges with the legal framework, and formulating effective strategies to address them. I am deeply honoured to be chosen by the Nippon Foundation and I would like to extend a sincere thank you! As an IMLI-NF Alumna, I do intend to work cooperatively with the NF Alumni Network in order to assist in achieving the goals of the Nippon Foundation. I am a proud graduate of IMLI and I highly recommend this program.

I gladly take this opportunity to express my gratitude to The Nippon Foundation for the Fellowship Award, which enabled me to accomplish my dream of pursuing the LL.M. in International Maritime Law. I thank them for placing their confidence in me and considering me a candidate fit to sponsor. The IMO-IMLI is a unique institution, besides resident faculties, one gets to learn from the best of the best in the industry and academia across the globe. It is a humbling experience to know that the lecturer who is explaining the particular convention or regulation, is actually the one who has played a big role in its realisation, and at IMO-IMLI, I was fortunate to witness it many times. The curriculum is intense but meticulously planned, which ensures that the learning curve remains continuous. The Professors were approachable and helpful, library and other administrative staff were also very assistive. The books provided by the institution, referred to as 'The IMLI Manuals' are a treat to the subject enthusiasts and definitely a must-read for any students. Moral tutor, Project, and Drafting guides were always reachable and helped throughout my journey at IMLI. Such a supportive and accommodative environment makes this learning experience hassle-free and very rewarding. The IMO-IMLI enrols, candidates from various parts of the globe and of different profiles like Diplomats, officers from the Maritime Administration, and Coast Guard officers, which brings an interesting mix to learning & understanding. The multicultural environment at the institute fosters a sense of togetherness. The relationship developed at IMLI has the potential to bring two countries together on their common subject of interest. I shall cherish the experience gained and the relationship developed IMLI throughout my life.