Volunteer of the year award celebrates global alumni impact in Mexico

To celebrate Volunteers’ Week from 1 to 6 June, we’re saying a big thank you to alumni who have given their time to support Essex over the past year and recognising one outstanding individual for their contribution.

Each year, we give special recognition to a member of our alumni community who has made a significant impact through volunteering. Alba Zazueta (MSc Financial and Business Economics, 2011) is this year’s Alumni Volunteer of the Year for her work across Mexico.

Returning to Mexico City after graduating, Alba has spent more than four years to supporting Essex’s global community. She has played a key role in strengthening alumni networks by hosting her own events for graduates in the region and keeping alumni connected with each other and with Essex through a dedicated WhatsApp and social media groups.

Alongside this, Alba has also provided invaluable support to the University’s student recruitment team, joining staff at education fairs and on school visits, helping to showcase Essex to prospective students and offering first-hand insight into the student experience. 

Alba said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the Alumni Volunteer of the Year Award from the University of Essex. Over the years, I have been committed to strengthening the Essex alumni community in Mexico, fostering meaningful connections, and promoting the value of the Essex experience beyond the UK. I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to a university that continues to make a difference in the lives of its students and graduates.”

The Volunteer of the Year award forms part of Essex’s celebration of Volunteers’ Week, recognising the crucial role alumni play in supporting students, graduates and the wider University community.

Lynsey Dawson, Head of Advancement, said: “Alba’s contribution reflects the very best of this spirit of volunteering. By dedicating her time, expertise and enthusiasm, she has strengthened the University’s international community, supported student recruitment efforts and ensured that Essex remains a meaningful and lasting connection for graduates in Mexico.”

In 2025, close to 200 alumni gave their time to Essex, contributing more than 563 hours across various volunteering activities. 

Guest speaking, alumni profiles and career mentoring are among the most popular ways graduates chose to support current students and fellow graduates. Alumni volunteers help students gain valuable insights into different industries and bring real-world perspectives into the learning experience. 

Alba’s achievements, and the time that hundreds of alumni give every year, highlight the difference our graduates can make and the ways they can stay connected to Essex wherever they are in the world.

If you’re a graduate interested in ways you can support Essex, visit our volunteering page.