Five years of the “Loucas Haji-Ioannou Scholarships” for the Yacht Chef Certificate by the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation
10 full scholarships for 2026 – 2027, plus €1,000 in additional support for each scholarship recipient
The Stelios Philanthropic Foundation continues the “Loucas Haji-Ioannou Scholarships” for the Yacht Chef Certificate this year, in collaboration with BCA College, marking five years of supporting specialised education in the yachting sector and creating new professional opportunities. The new 2026 – 2027 programme was presented at a special event held at the Stelios Foundation Conference Hall in Plaka, Athens.
For 2026 – 2027, the Foundation is offering 10 full scholarships, covering 100% of tuition fees, while each scholarship recipient will also receive an additional €1,000 to support the start of their professional career.
The scholarships are named after Loucas Haji-Ioannou, father of Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, honouring his memory and his lifelong connection with the sea and shipping. Part of the practical training takes place aboard MY Klelia 1, Loucas Haji-Ioannou’s first yacht, adding a special symbolic significance to the initiative.
The Yacht Chef Certificate combines theoretical instruction with hands-on training in real-life yachting environments. Highlights of this year’s programme include visits and training aboard yachts and mega yachts over 50 metres, as well as a Lionfish Masterclass, Japanese-Greek fusion cuisine and molecular gastronomy.
“The Loucas Haji-Ioannou Scholarships hold a special significance for me, as they honour the memory of my father and his connection with the sea. For the past five years, we have been giving people the opportunity to acquire specialised knowledge and meaningful practical experience in a sector with a significant presence in Greece. Investing in education creates value not only for the individuals themselves, but also for the industry and society as a whole,” said Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, Founder and President of the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation.
For BCA College, particular emphasis is placed on connecting specialised education with the real needs of the industry and the professional opportunities available to participants.
“For BCA College, the Yacht Chef Certificate is an educational programme that combines specialised knowledge, hands-on training, interaction with leading industry professionals and a direct connection to the job market, offering participants significant opportunities for professional development. We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation for this outstanding collaboration, whose generous support has already made a tangible difference to the lives and futures of many young people,” said Dr Christina Konstantinidou, General Director of BCA College.
Through the “Loucas Haji-Ioannou Scholarships”, the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation continues to support access to specialised education and the development of a highly skilled workforce for the Greek yachting sector.
