Law with Human Rights graduate Ifigenia Bakellas is a global finalist in the social action category of the Study UK Awards organised by the British Council.
She is being recognised for her role as co-founder of Genesis Hellas which is now a highly-respected NGO addressing some of the most pressing issues faced by vulnerable communities in Greece.
Genesis Hellas provides vegan meals to homeless people in Athens promoting healthy, sustainable food options. Her work impacts over 2,000 beneficiaries annually, advocating for inclusive practices. In 2024, she launched volunteer workshops for school children, reaching 15,000 students to foster empathy and community service throughout Greece. Ifigenia aims to expand her advocacy for human rights and sustainable solutions to poverty and injustice, grounded in compassion and inclusivity. Ifigenia manages to balance her work and volunteering with being a mother to a three-year-old is a global finalist in the science and sustainability category of the Study UK Alumni Awards organised by the British Council.
Just 28 global finalists were selected from more than 1,300 applications from around the world. Amazingly this is the 7th year running that University of Essex alumni have secured a prestigious place in the global finals and this year two Essex alumni are finalists after Luisa Fernanda Bacca was also named on the shortlist for the science and sustainability award.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Frances Bowen said: “Luisa is a wonderful ambassador for our University, championing our international outlook and commitment to making change happen. Congratulations from all of us here at the University of Essex.”
Ifigenia said: “This recognition means so much to me, as it reflects not only my own journey but also the incredible support and opportunities, I’ve been fortunate to receive along the way. I’m grateful for the chance to contribute in my own way, and I hope this inspires others to pursue their passions and make a difference, no matter how small."
She added that her experience talking to Greek graduates about their time at Essex was a turning point in her life. She said: “I attended an applicant event in Greece when thinking about coming to Essex to study. At the event I had the opportunity to speak with Essex graduates and hear firsthand about their experiences. This was a pivotal moment for me.
“It helped me see Essex as a place that truly supports its students and fosters a strong sense of community. Their insights reassured me that I would not only receive a high-quality education but also be part of an inclusive and inspiring environment. Attending this event played a key role in my decision to study at Essex.”
Ifigenia’s story
Growing up in Greece during a significant refugee wave, Ifigenia Bakellas felt a deep sense of responsibility to make a difference. Volunteering at a local refugee camp ignited her passion for human rights and motivated her to pursue a degree in Law with Human Rights at the University of Essex, home to the renowned Human Rights Centre. Her time at Essex became the foundation of her journey to becoming a leader in social action, with her UK education providing the skills and knowledge necessary to transform her passion into impactful initiatives.
While studying at Essex, Ifigenia co-founded Genesis Hellas, a non-governmental organisation in Athens, with her family. Despite being based in the UK during her studies, she managed to coordinate projects remotely, regularly traveling to Greece to oversee the organisation's growth. What started as a small initiative has evolved into a respected NGO that addresses some of the most pressing issues faced by vulnerable communities in Greece.
One of the organisation's key projects focuses on providing nutritious vegan meals to Athens’ homeless population, promoting health, sustainability, and inclusivity. Over the past six years, Genesis Hellas has served approximately 2,000 beneficiaries annually, addressing the needs of individuals without access to adequate food. Additionally, the organisation’s emergency response team delivers aid during natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods, distributing over 2,000 parcels to affected families last year alone.
Inspired by her experiences in the UK, Ifigenia introduced volunteer workshops for children aged three to 12. These workshops aim to foster empathy and compassion in the next generation by teaching them about the value of volunteering. Since launching this initiative, Genesis Hellas has engaged over 15,000 students, creating a ripple effect of social awareness and responsibility.
Ifigenia credits her UK education for equipping her with the critical thinking, organisational skills, and global perspective needed to lead such impactful work. At the University of Essex, she gained a comprehensive understanding of human rights and the tools to design effective, equitable interventions. The emphasis on practical application and independent thinking inspired her to address systemic issues in her home country.
Her story has inspired others to follow in her footsteps. As a mentor to students at her former high school, Ifigenia shares her academic journey and encourages young people to consider studying in the UK. Her insights also influence the 1,000 annual volunteers at Genesis Hellas, many of whom have taken more active roles in social action or pursued international education.
Beyond her work with the NGO, Ifigenia is an advocate for sustainability and human rights. She regularly speaks at events and on podcasts, discussing how her UK education shaped her approach to humanitarian work and inspiring audiences to consider the transformative power of education.
As a global finalist for the Study UK Alumni Awards in the Social Action category, Ifigeneia embodies the spirit of the University of Essex. Her commitment to making a meaningful difference in her community, combined with the skills and values she gained during her studies, showcases the profound impact of a UK education on individuals and the wider world.
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