2016 IISTL Prize Goes to Styliani Kounakou

Since 2009, the IISTL has been awarding a Prize to a LLM student submitting the best LLM Research Projects as part of their LLM studies. This prestigious Prize aims at encouraging Swansea LLM students to produce a research output of highest quality and is open for any LLM student writing their projects in the realm of international shipping and trade law.

The winner of the Prize in 2016 was Styliani Kounakou who originally hails from Greece. Styliani completed her LLM in International Maritime Law in 2015 at Swansea University. Prior to coming to Swansea, Styliani studied Law in Greece at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, School of Law in Thessaloniki. The Prize was presented to Styliani during the LLM Graduation reception by Professor Richard Williams.

Kounakou

Professor Richard Williams with Stuliani Kounakou

Commenting after receiving the award Styliani said: “Swansea University was my first choice when I was applying for an LL.M. One year later, and having already concluded my postgraduate studies, I can strongly admit that I would have made the same decision over again and again, if I had to choose among other universities. The Department of Shipping and Trade Law has surpassed all my expectations not only because of its unique and close relationship with its LLM students, but also of the exceptional quality of teaching. Winning a prize awarded by the Institute of International Shipping and Trade Law (IISTL), a highly esteemed group of researchers, whose academic contribution and significant importance to the shipping industry is of undoubted value, is a great honour for me and reflects my hard work throughout the year. I would not have achieved that, though, without the useful and constant support of my professors, who guided us with their theoretical knowledge and their practical experience. It is very important for someone to be able to dream, create and finally see that its efforts have been recognized; and therefore, I will always be grateful for being a part of Swansea University and the Department of Shipping and Trade Law”

‌The LLM Reception which was held at Marriot Hotel provided a great opportunity to LLM graduates and their families/friends to meet with the teaching staff at Swansea. Those who were present took the opportunity to thank the College of Law staff for the dedication and hard work they put in to contribute to the education of the new generation of commercial and maritime lawyers and left the event feeling confident of the fact that Swansea LLM will provide their loved ones enviable opportunities in their professional lives.