Young RMLA Initiative

The intention of the 'Young RMLA' is to provide a forum for those in the early stages of their RMA career, say up to around 5-8 years or less experience in their respective fields to meet and share experiences, and to encourage the attendance of young/new members, non-members, as well as new members to the RMLA. This will also provide a greater incentive for young practitioners to join the RMLA, network with their peers and attend seminars / functions etc that might better meet their needs.

Two successful 'Young RMLA' events were held last year, the first Auckland session (Into the Lion's Den) which was held on 31 May 2007. Presentations were given by James Gardner-Hopkins (Russell McVeagh), Christina Freeman (Winstone Aggregates), and David Boersen (Babbage Consultants), representing young practitioners from the fields of law, science and planning, respectively. Each spoke about the challenges they have faced since entering their professions, raising issues from the importance of seeking early career advice, to dealing with demanding clients from a position of youth and limited experience. The second session was the Special Interest Group session at the October 2007 RMLA Conference. The latter was attended by a mix of young lawyers, planners and engineers, and provided a good opportunity to explain the initiative and brainstorm a number of ideas for Young RMLA events.

If you would like to register your interest in receiving information about future 'Young RMLA' events (whether or not you are an RMLA member), then please email Karol Helmink on email: karol.helmink@xtra.co.nz

Contact details for the Auckland Young RMLA branch: kate.reid@simpsongrierson.com