Delegates from Australia, the USA, the UK, and Greece gathered in Ioannina this past weekend for the first Women & Hellenism Reunion.
The event offered participants the opportunity to reconnect and reflect on the historic Inaugural Global Women & Hellenism Conference (September 2024), organised by the Food For Thought Network (FFTN).
The reunion began with coffee and heartfelt exchanges at the Grand Serai Hotel, followed by a visit to Nisaki and dinner at the Politeia restaurant. In contrast to the scale of last year’s conference, this smaller gathering created an intimate space for delegates to strengthen personal bonds and share reflections on the conference’s lasting impact.
FFTN warmly thanks the Region of Epirus and the Municipality of Ioannina for their ongoing moral support. Special appreciation was expressed to Yioula Mitrokosta, Lena Basogianni, Sofia Markoula, Christos Tatsis, Katerina Koutliani and Fotis Rapakousis.
The program was enriched with participant testimonials:
Efi Asvesti reflected: “For me, the conference was a turning point. It was the first time I was surrounded by so many Greeks of the diaspora, and it opened my world. It changed how I teach, broadened my perspective on Hellenic communities globally, and brought connections I could never have imagined.”
Dr. Maria Athanasiou noted: “I have organised and attended many conferences, but what I experienced in Ioannina last year was true ‘μεράκι’—a labor of love. Every detail was thoughtfully executed, there was no political label attached to anything, whilst the opportunities and connections I gained since then have been invaluable. I understand the challenges and complexities of such big ventures, but Varvara and her wider team really meant what they were doing; and they did it meaningfully.”
Maria Hatzinakou, visiting from the USA, offered insights into American public education and her role as Director of the Greek Schools in Chicago, enriching discussions on diaspora challenges and opportunities.
Vasilis Paterousis and Natasha Liontou shared media coverage and spoke about the inspiring women they remain connected with.
Other delegates also highlighted the continuing impact of the conference.
A highlight of the reunion was the visit to Ioannina’s island, where Fotis Rapakousis, founder of the Ali Pasha Museum, captivated participants with his knowledge and storytelling. His interpretation of Ali Pasha’s 33 years of governance provided a fresh perspective beyond what history books convey.
The weekend concluded with delegates enjoying the gastronomy of Epirus while continuing heartfelt conversations on heritage, world affairs, and community.
Looking ahead, a Memorandum of Collaboration between FFTN and the Municipality of Ioannina is being drafted, marking the beginning of a new chapter of cooperation and shared vision.
As the reunion came to a close, participants expressed gratitude for the memories created, the friendships deepened, and the anticipation of future gatherings where Women & Hellenism will continue to unite voices across the globe.
