33rd Annual International HUPE Conference- second plenary speaker
Dear HUPE Members and Friends,
We are delighted to share some exciting news about the HUPE International Conference 2025. This year, we are honoured to welcome a distinguished educator and influential figure in the field of English language teaching—someone whose commitment to innovation and personal growth in education continues to inspire teachers worldwide.
Please join us in welcoming our second plenary speaker:
George Kokolas
Plenary Talk:
Crafting Character Through Language Learning
In this engaging session, George Kokolas will examine the increasingly important role of character development within language education. Grounded in the Seligman and Peterson framework, the talk will present practical approaches to helping students build resilience and unlock their potential through the recognition and nurturing of their character strengths. The plenary will also emphasize the importance of educator self-reflection and the intentional creation of a positive, empowering classroom culture—reminding us that true educational change begins with inspired teachers.
About the Speaker:
George Kokolas brings over two decades of expertise as Academic Director and Teacher Trainer at Express Publishing. He is a certified Level 7 TEFL teacher, a licensed Level 5 Positive Education Practitioner, and an ADVANCED Neurolanguage Coach®. He also holds a BA in English Literature and a Level 5 Diploma in Positive Psychology. Since 2017, he has co-produced the Teachers’ Coffee podcast, offering professional development insights to educators around the globe. Recognised in 2022 as one of Greece’s most influential ELT professionals, George has delivered more than 1,000 talks at international events. His contributions to TESOL Greece—as Vice Chair and founding member of IPEN Greece—further reflect his dedication to the ELT community.
We are confident that his session will leave you inspired and equipped with valuable ideas for personal and professional growth.