Intern gains international arbitration experience on Hong Kong internship

Ryan Choy: "It was a privilege to temporarily be a part of this legal community, where ideas were exchanged freely and all perspectives were welcomed"

Hong Kong is a city of contrasts, where modernity meets tradition, and nature is effortlessly integrated into the urban environment. This is a city that knows how to make the most of its limited space, offering a dynamic and fast-paced environment while still preserving its rich cultural heritage.

My internship with the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC) provided me with invaluable exposure to international arbitration, a critical area of law that plays a pivotal role in resolving cross-border commercial disputes.

During the internship, I gained practical experience in legal research, drafting, and case management, which deepened my understanding of the arbitration process as an alternative to litigation.

Beyond the professional development, my time in Hong Kong offered a personal connection to the city where I was born and raised, making this internship experience both professionally and personally rewarding.

As an intern at HKIAC, I was entrusted with various responsibilities that ranged from legal drafting and research to assisting with event preparations.

Legal research was at the core of my role, where I had the opportunity to explore contemporary arbitration issues and deepen my understanding of the legal frameworks that govern dispute resolution.

My work involved analysing arbitration cases, preparing summaries, and conducting research on specific legal questions, which were then used by the HKIAC team to enhance their understanding and management of disputes.

The legal drafting tasks were both challenging and enriching. I was involved in drafting documents that supported ongoing cases and procedural matters at HKIAC.

These documents helped me develop a deeper appreciation for the precision and clarity required in legal writing. I also had the chance to attend various meetings and observe international arbitration hearings, allowing me to witness first-hand how arbitration functions in practice.

While in Hong kong, Ryan met with New Zealand Consulate-General to Hong Kong, Peter Lund

One of the most valuable aspects of the internship was the opportunity to meet and engage with a diverse group of highly regarded international lawyers.

These interactions provided unique insights into how legal professionals from different jurisdictions approach dispute resolution and how cultural differences can influence the arbitration process.

It was a privilege to temporarily be a part of this legal community, where ideas were exchanged freely and all perspectives were welcomed.

While the internship itself was a tremendous learning experience, my time in Hong Kong also gave me a chance to reconnect with the city I was born in and experience it from a fresh perspective.

One of the things I most appreciated about Hong Kong was its compact and efficient layout. The city is small enough that everything you need is easily accessible, yet it’s constantly buzzing with activity. Whether I was working in the heart of the central business district or strolling along the harbour, there was always something exciting to experience just around the corner.

Ryan: "The city’s mountains and beaches are just a short distance from the hustle and bustle..."

Hong Kong’s proximity to nature was another highlight for me. I was amazed at how easily I could leave the urban landscape behind and find myself on a hiking trail surrounded by lush greenery.

The city’s mountains and beaches are just a short distance from the hustle and bustle, offering a perfect escape for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Whether it was hiking up Lion Rock or relaxing by the waterfront at Stanley, the accessibility of nature added a refreshing balance to the fast-paced city life.

Food in Hong Kong is undoubtedly one of the city’s strongest points. The variety of cuisine available is unparalleled, with a mix of traditional Cantonese dishes, street food, and international flavours.

Whether I was enjoying a bowl of noodles at a local dai pai dong (open-air food stall) or dining at a Michelin-starred Cantonese roast meats shop, every meal was a unique and delightful experience. Hong Kong is a food lover’s paradise, offering something for every palate.

The city’s role as a global financial hub and its position at the crossroads of East and West have shaped it into a cosmopolitan melting pot of cultures and experiences. Whether I was meeting colleagues from around the world at HKIAC or simply interacting with locals, the diversity and openness of the city created an environment where ideas and cultures blended seamlessly.

Ryan at Victoria Peak with Hong Kong and Victoria Harbour behind him

The internship at HKIAC was a rewarding experience that not only provided me with crucial insights into the world of international arbitration but also allowed me to reconnect with my roots in Hong Kong.

I gained a better understanding of the legal profession overseas, particularly the efficiency and effectiveness of arbitration as an alternative form of dispute resolution. I was able to interact with some of the best legal minds in the field, and this opportunity has undoubtedly influenced my career aspirations.

Living in Hong Kong during this time reinforced my deep appreciation for the city. The unique blend of modernity, tradition, and nature made it an ideal backdrop for both professional growth and personal enjoyment.

It was a chance to rediscover the city from a new perspective, engage with its vibrant culture, and explore its many facets. This internship has been an invaluable experience, and I am incredibly grateful to the Asia New Zealand Foundation for making it possible.

The Foundation's Business Programme supports New Zealand companies to better understand Asia so they can make the most of opportunities in the region. It also supports to grow the next generation of Asia-savvy business leaders.

Our internship programme helps interns build a better understanding of the people, place and culture of their Asian host country, while developing industry-specific skills that will benefit them as they progress in their careers.