Middle East Legal Awards 2025.
CCLS Alumnus, Chadi Akiki, has been recently shortlisted for the Middle East Legal Award.
Chadi Akiki (Comparative and International Dispute Resolution LLM, 2017) is delighted: ” I am truly honoured to be shortlisted for the Middle East Legal Awards 2025 in the category of General Counsel of the Year – Small Team. This recognition is not just a professional milestone, but a personal one as well. Leading the legal department at Mondia, a global leader in PaaS (Platform as a Service) and digital solutions and experiences, has been a rewarding journey. With operations in 27 countries and 8 offices across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Mondia is at the forefront of innovation, and I am proud to contribute to its success.
Being shortlisted for this prestigious award, especially with the record-high number of candidates this year, is a humbling acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication that I have consistently put into delivering top-quality legal services. It is a reflection of my life and career. This recognition speaks not only to the milestones I’ve reached but also to the continuous pursuit of excellence that drives me every day. The journey has been a testament to the endless will and perseverance required to navigate the complexities of the legal landscape while always striving to offer the best legal advice and service.
My educational background has undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping who I am today. One of the highlights of my academic journey was graduating from Queen Mary University of London, an institution that I hold in high regard with an LLM in international Arbitration. The experience was truly transformative, both professionally and personally. The quality of courses, the caliber of professors, and the exposure to top-tier legal discussions during seminars and events provided me with a deeper understanding of the legal world. More than just academic growth, it offered the opportunity to build partnerships and friendships that continue to enrich my career today.
Looking back, my time at QMUL was a year to remember. It was a period of intellectual stimulation, where I was constantly challenged to think critically, collaborate with brilliant minds, and be exposed to high-level legal discourse. These experiences contributed to my growth as a legal professional and instilled in me the values of diligence, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence.
As I reflect on this recognition, I am reminded of the importance of always striving for the best and of the incredible journey that has led me here. To current students, my advice is simple: Never underestimate your potential. Equip yourselves with the tools for success, and embrace every opportunity for growth. To this end, Queen Mary University of London is surely an experience that will shape you into the best version of yourself.
On top of all of this, I have exhausted the adjectives that fairly define the support and love of my wife, Marie Ange, from whom I draw my daily energy. I also owe a great deal of my happiness and pride to my two boys, Antoine and Cesare, and my nephew, Brian, who contribute to my life in ways that words can hardly capture. Their presence in my life makes every day brighter and more meaningful.
Thank you to the Middle East Legal Awards for this recognition, and to my colleagues, mentors, and everyone who has supported me along the way. This is a shared achievement, and I am incredibly grateful for it.”