First Diaspora Youth Conference in Athens highlights Greek Australian voices

By Ilias Karagiannis

The 1st Diaspora Youth Conference, organised by Greece’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, took place at the Hellenic Cosmos Cultural Centre in Athens last week, with a strong presence from Greek Australian youth.

Among the participants, Ellie Mavromatis and Alannah Aroney brought their unique perspectives to a panel on environmental challenges.

Ellie, a psychology student and the only speaker to present in Greek, emphasised the importance of education in tackling environmental issues.

“Pressure on governments is crucial, but so is education. In my studies, education is constantly highlighted as the first step in effectively addressing challenges,” she said, receiving positive audience feedback.

Alannah highlighted the role of political action and awareness campaigns, citing the protection of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef as an example.

“The more pressure we exert on the politicians we elect, the greater the hope for better outcomes. For example, in Australia, there are campaigns for the Great Barrier Reef,” she stated.

The two-day symposium, titled “Diaspora Dialogues: Connecting Young Voices Around the World,” was part of the Strategic Plan for the Greek Diaspora 2024-2027. The event aimed to foster connections between second and third generation expatriates and their Greek roots.

Calls for stronger education and cultural ties

Participants expressed a desire for Greece to support Greek-language education in the diaspora and strengthen ties to Greek history and tradition. Many suggested integrating Greek lessons into mainstream education systems rather than restricting them to Saturday schools.

The conference covered themes such as cultural identity, arts, career development, and the role of youth in creating a cohesive society. Experts from politics, business, diplomacy, and academia contributed insights, while participants shared their concerns and aspirations.

Government commitment to the diaspora

Greece’s Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis and Deputy Minister Giorgos Kotsiras praised the youth initiative, with Gerapetritis stating, “The Strategic Plan for the Diaspora will strengthen ties between the homeland and the diaspora, uniting all generations. Keep Hellenism in your hearts and spread the message that Greece is everywhere.”

Kotsiras added: “The Greek Diaspora is a vast national asset. I urge all participants to exchange ideas and shape policies for the future generations of Hellenism.”

General Secretary for Greeks Abroad, Maira Myrogianni, expressed her pride in the conference, noting it was the first of its kind: “Young people from four continents and 16 countries shared their concerns and became one community by the end of the event. Many of their requests are already included in the 2024-2027 Strategic Plan.”

Efforts to enhance Greek-language education abroad were also highlighted, with increased support for Greek studies programs internationally.

The conference marked a significant step in reconnecting the diaspora with Greece while addressing contemporary challenges and opportunities.