With a lifelong passion for conflict resolution, Yasmeen Kennedy has dedicated her career to fostering understanding, bridging divides, and guiding individuals and communities toward meaningful solutions. Her journey in mediation began in early childhood, where she first learned the power of dialogue through the “peace rug” in Montessori school—a foundation that has shaped her commitment to transforming disputes into opportunities for connection. With a diverse upbringing that exposed her to various cultures, communication styles, and social norms, Yasmeen developed a deep appreciation for human differences and the value of diverse perspectives. This early insight fueled her passion for the law, leading her to work in various legal fields, including Family Law, Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, Business Law Bankruptcy and Civil Litigation, since 2001. However, recognizing that true resolution lies beyond the adversarial nature of the courtroom, she transitioned into mediation, earning certifications from Harvard Law School’s Program on Negotiation and Cornell University’ Scheinman Institute of Conflict Resolution. Today, she is a New York Court Certified Mediator Conflict Coach, Certified New York State Divorce Mediator, while also mediating cases nationally and globally. Yasmeen has successfully mediated a wide range of disputes, including custody and divorce cases, landlord-tenant conflicts, employment disputes, police-citizen conflicts, and human rights violations. She actively hosts community dialogue sessions, helping individuals navigate divisive issues and rediscover common ground. Her expertise extends to mediating disputes arising from climate change challenges, and she advocates for the inclusion of mediation clauses in climate agreements as a UN Delegate at Climate Change Conventions. As the head of the climate change team for Mediators Beyond Borders International, Yasmeen is at the forefront of addressing global conflict through mediation Beyond her mediation practice, Yasmeen is deeply committed to capacity-building initiatives, action planning facilitation, and conflict coaching. She also leads restorative circles, fostering healing and accountability within communities. She serves as a facilitator for the New York Division of Human Rights Hate & Bias Prevention Unit and as a Commissioner on the Judicial Review Committee for the Aurora Municipal Court. Her leadership in dispute resolution is further reflected in her memberships with the American Bar Association, the Association for Conflict Resolution, and various state bar associations. Through her relentless pursuit of resolution, she continues to shape a future marked by understanding, compassion, and unity. For those seeking a skilled, empathetic, and solution-oriented mediator, Yasmeen offers a wealth of experience, a global perspective, and a steadfast dedication to fostering peace and collaboration.

Areas of Expertise: Conflict Coach, Divorce Mediator, Human Rights, Climate Change Challenges, Meditation, UNFCCC, Bias Prevention
Country of Origin: United States
Current Residence: United States
Languages: English