2026 Mediator Roadmap
- Mediation Academy
- Dec 8, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Dec 19, 2025
What does it take to launch a sustainable mediation practice in 2026? Here's a roadmap to help you plan your journey.
Mediation Academy 2026 Mediator Roadmap
1. 80h Certificate
1.1 64h Self study component
1.2 Final exam
1.3 16h Practicals (role-plays) + feedback session
2. Supervision
2.1 Choose a suitable supervision program
2.2 Prepare & attend supervision
2.3 Submit POE to supervisor
3. Professional Certification ("mediator accreditation")
3.1 Choose a suitable RMO ("recognised mediator organisation")
3.2 Submit application
3.3 Check & complete mediator listing on RMO website
4. Community
4.1 Attend Mediation Academy weekly webinars on growing your practice
4.2 Join Mediator WhatsApp groups
4.2.1 ThinkLegal
4.2.2 RMOs
5. Business Plan
5.1 Vision & Mission
Do nothing else until you have defined your purpose
5.2 Draft Business Plan + Financials (ChatGPT5+)
6. Digital Footprint
6.1 Website + domain
6.2 LinkedIn page
6.3 Facebook page
6.4 Google My Business registration
6.5 ADR-PA registration
7. Networking
7.1 Mediator's personal contacts
7.2 Mediator's business contacts
7.3 NGOs, Welfare, Schools, Churches
7.4 Courts
Information referrals
8. Cases Mediated
8.1 1st Pro Bono case
8.2 1st Paying client
9. Legal Entity Registered
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What qualifications do I need to become a mediator in South Africa?
To become a mediator in South Africa, you need to complete an 80-hour mediation certificate, followed by supervision and professional accreditation through a recognised mediator organisation (RMO).
What does the 80-hour mediation certificate include?
The 80-hour certificate includes 64 hours of self-study, a final assessment, and 16 hours of practical role-plays with feedback, designed to meet South African accreditation standards.
Is mediation supervision compulsory after training?
Yes. Supervision is a mandatory step after completing mediator training. It ensures skill development, ethical practice, and readiness for professional accreditation.
What qualifications do I need to become a mediator in South Africa?
To become a mediator in South Africa, you need to complete an 80-hour mediation certificate, followed by supervision and professional accreditation through a recognised mediator organisation (RMO).
What does the 80-hour mediation certificate include?
The 80-hour certificate includes 64 hours of self-study, a final assessment, and 16 hours of practical role-plays with feedback, designed to meet South African accreditation standards.
Is mediation supervision compulsory after training?
Yes. Supervision is a mandatory step after completing mediator training. It ensures skill development, ethical practice, and readiness for professional accreditation.
Can I study mediation while working full-time?
Yes. Mediation Academy’s programme is designed to be flexible, allowing students to complete training and supervision alongside full-time employment.
Published: 8 December 2025
Published by: Mediation Academy SA
© Mediation Academy South Africa. All rights reserved.
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