After almost 15 years with the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA), General Manager Nick Kyriazopoulos will be stepping down in October to pursue new professional challenges.
During Nick’s tenure, GOCSA has experienced remarkable growth, solidifying its position as one of the largest ethno-specific organisations in South Australia. Under Nick’s guidance the organisation has consistently expanded its presence in the multicultural space, enhanced its relationships with members and stakeholders and fostered a productive culture of collaboration.
Nick has played a pivotal role in the overall operation of Ridleyton Home for the Aged, establishing and developing transformative initiatives, such as the Dementia Respite “Limani” program and forging strategic partnerships with experts and community organisations to ensure the equitable provision of services for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who live with the disease as well as their carers.
Another of Nick’s highlights at the helm of GOCSA includes the successful acquisition of the Camden Community Centre, ensuring a 40+ year old community organisation was able to survive and continue providing services to the broader community.
“It was a big eye opener for me, in what a community-based organisation could and should do to assist other communities. It also highlights GOCSA’s vision to evolve and assist all South Australians,” Nick said.
Nick’s unwavering commitment to excellence, strong leadership, and relentless pursuit to growth opportunities to support members and stakeholders has been instrumental in shaping the organisation trajectory for 15 years.
Reflecting on his time at GOCSA, Nick expressed his gratitude, saying: “It has been a privilege to work in a not-for-profit environment where the aim has always been to benefit our members.”
“However, as Governments in Australia are changing their focus on the longstanding cultural groups such as the Greek Community, we will need to move to a different level of not just being supported but providers of support. Act as role models and mentors to the new arrivals,” Nick added.
“As we have existed for over 93 years and we should have as a Community become well established in Australia and have the expertise to know what is required to provide services to those in need. We must evolve.
“There is still work that needs to be done, this needy work never stops and I am sure the Board of the
day will be cognisant of the Community’s expanding needs.
“I have always been an advocate that GOCSA should support and represent all Hellenes in South Australia. One representative body will always have greater bargaining power with Government and funding bodies than a splintered group. I trust that this will occur sometime soon.”
As Nick will be stepping down, the Administrative Council will initiate a comprehensive search for a
new General Manager, ensuring a seamless transition of leadership.
President of GOCSA, Peter Gardiakos, expressed his appreciation for Nick’s significant contributions.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Nick for his outstanding leadership and tireless dedication to multiculturalism in South Australia. Under his guidance, the organisation has achieved remarkable growth and success. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours,” Mr Gardiakos said.
