As I approach the end of my six-week journey with International Bridges to Justice (IBJ), I find myself reflecting on how transformative this experience has been. Working within such a globally impactful organization has broadened my perspective on international human rights advocacy and justice reform. It has allowed me to witness firsthand the challenges and successes of working in an organization dedicated to providing legal representation to those who are often left voiceless. Throughout my time here, I have seen how IBJ operates at the intersection of law, justice, and social responsibility, working to build bridges between the legal system and vulnerable populations who might otherwise fall through the cracks.

Navigating Global Challenges

The international scope of IBJ’s work presented both exciting opportunities and unique challenges. One of the most compelling aspects of my experience was working on projects that spanned multiple countries, each with its own distinct legal, cultural, and political context. From the moment I arrived, I was entrusted with a wide range of responsibilities, including conducting legal research, supporting country-specific programs, and contributing to updates on IBJ’s website. Being given so much responsibility right from the start was both empowering and challenging—it required me to quickly grasp the intricacies of justice systems in vastly different environments.

At the heart of IBJ’s mission is its founder and CEO, Karen Tse, whose leadership has been a constant source of inspiration. Karen’s tireless commitment to ensuring access to legal representation for those in the most fragile legal environments is a testament to the power of ethical leadership. She has worked in some of the most challenging legal landscapes in the world, from Cambodia to Rwanda, providing practical solutions that empower local justice systems to reform from within. What sets her apart is her ability to see beyond the immediate problems and envision long-term, sustainable change. She doesn’t just advocate for justice from the outside; she works alongside governments and local actors to build systems that can uphold human rights in the long run. Karen’s approach to leadership deeply resonates with me. Her work demonstrates that leadership is not only about having a vision but also about taking ethical and actionable steps to bring that vision to life.

Cross-Cultural Collaboration

One of the most enriching aspects of my time at IBJ has been working alongside a diverse group of individuals from various cultural backgrounds. IBJ is a deeply collaborative organization, and my colleagues came from Switzerland, the United States, Spain, France, Denmark, and many other countries, each bringing their unique perspectives to our shared mission. This cultural diversity created an environment of constant learning and exchange, where we could all gain insights from each other’s experiences and cultural contexts. It made me realize how important cultural sensitivity and adaptability are when working in an international environment. Collaborating with people from different backgrounds enhanced my understanding of the importance of communication, respect, and flexibility in leadership.

This cultural immersion extended beyond the office as well. Living in Geneva—a predominantly French-speaking city—presented me with the challenge of learning basic French to navigate daily life. This experience, while initially difficult, helped me appreciate the importance of language and cultural understanding in building relationships. Effective leadership isn’t just about driving results; it’s about engaging with and understanding the people you are working with, respecting their cultural norms, and adapting to the environment around you.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally during my time at IBJ. I have gained invaluable insights into international human rights advocacy and justice reform. The experiences I’ve had will continue to shape my perspective, deepening my commitment to the principles of justice, empathy, and ethical action.