Azzam Ahmad

Azzam Ahmad, a Jordanian–Bahraini lawyer and researcher, graduated in 2021 with a Master’s degree in International Business Law. He currently works as a lawyer and Head of the Legal Department at two international companies: Euro Workforce and Smart Choice.

 He is also a PhD candidate at Vilnius University, specializing in commercial and arbitration law, and recently completed a fellowship as a Visiting Researcher at Vytautas Magnus University in Lithuania. He is presently on a diplomatic mission with the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in South Africa.

Azzam shares: “For me, VMU was never just an educational institution – it felt more like a first love. It welcomed me, believed in me, and played a major role in shaping both my personal and professional journey. I'm pleased to share my story with you and express my deep gratitude for everything this university has given me.”

How do you recall your studies at VMU? What were your challenges?

One of the most impactful courses I took was Financial Law with Dr. Tomas Versinskas. He delivered the subject with a practical and real-world approach, bridging theory with application, and ultimately helped me decide to specialize in both financial and international law.

I was actively involved in student life, regularly participating in events organized by the International Students Office – from welcome receptions to cultural and social activities. These experiences helped me integrate and build long-lasting friendships.

The greatest challenge I faced was the limited opportunities for international law students in the Lithuanian job market, especially back in 2019. Government services were not yet fully digitalized, and Lithuanian-language resources were limited. The legal market was relatively closed. However, these obstacles taught me patience, perseverance, and how to create opportunities instead of waiting for them.

The Faculty of Law at VMU played a crucial role in laying a strong foundation for my career. Not only did I receive high-quality education, but I also participated in academic conferences and engaged with legal experts from around the world in a vibrant and supportive learning environment.

What is your current role, and what does it involve?

Today, I work as a lawyer and Head of the Legal Department at two international companies: Euro Workforce and Smart Choice. I am also a PhD candidate at Vilnius University and recently completed a fellowship as a Visiting Researcher at VMU. I am proud to be the first researcher in Lithuania to specialize in Islamic commercial arbitration, focusing on the Baltic and Gulf regions, while also conducting comparative research between Islamic and European financial law. In 2021, I worked with the European Union Asylum Office, the Lithuanian government, and border authorities to support national efforts during the refugee crisis at the Belarusian border.

One of the biggest challenges I faced was mastering legal and Lithuanian-language fluency – but with determination, dedication, and continuous learning, I was able to overcome it.

How has your life changed since graduating from VMU?

My life has completely transformed – from a student taking his first steps to an international legal advisor, academic researcher, and soon-to-be expert in international arbitration law.

What are you most passionate about outside of work?

Outside of work, I find joy in public speaking, mentoring law students, and engaging in research initiatives that support legal reform, migration law, and the rights of migrants.

What does success mean to you?

To me, success is not defined by titles, but by the impact we leave behind and the doors we open for others. It means contributing sincerely to your field and helping others grow.

How has being a VMU alumnus impacted your life or career?

Being a VMU graduate has had a profound impact on my life. It opened up professional horizons, expanded my network, and gave me lifelong colleagues and collaborators – many of whom I still work with today on academic and professional projects.

What would be your message for current students?

Never let anyone place limits on what you can achieve. When I arrived in Lithuania from Bahrain in 2019, many people questioned my decision, thinking I had left “stronger” countries behind. But now, in 2025, Lithuania stands as one of Europe’s most developed and forward-thinking nations – and here I am, proudly sharing my story.

To law students in particular: focus on future-ready legal skills such as anti-money laundering (AML), cybersecurity law, and digital compliance. These are the fields of tomorrow.

You’re fortunate to be studying at VMU – make the most of it.

And I truly hope that in the near future, I will return to VMU not only as an alumnus but as a lecturer and researcher – giving back to the university that I love with all my heart.