As part of the Greek Community of Melbourne’s (GCM) September youth summer camp program in Greece, a group of participants aged 14 to 16 were welcomed to the headquarters of the Governor of Attica.
The visit was designed to give the young diaspora Greeks the opportunity to engage directly with Greek officials, reflect on their cultural journey, and share highlights of their camp experiences.
Among those present were Bill Papastergiadis OAM, President of the GCM, Christine Kefalogianni, Deputy Governor of Attica, Elena Rapti, Special Secretary of the Attica Region, and Dimitrios Tarazonas, Deputy Director of the Attica Governor’s Office, who played a key role in helping design and coordinate the program. Also in attendance were organisers and supporters of the camp.
The roundtable atmosphere encouraged the youth to speak about the most memorable aspects of their time in Greece – from excursions to Delphi and the Athenian Riviera, to the chance to immerse themselves in everyday Greek life.
Several participants expressed how deeply the program had strengthened their ties to their heritage, and many shared light-hearted reflections about shopping, beaches and new friendships.
In her remarks, Ms Kefalogianni emphasised the importance of strengthening bonds between Greece and the diaspora, “So many people left during the difficult times of Greece and went to Australia. Now it is time for them to come back, and we are very open to having them here. It is very nice to see you here, experiencing both the ancient and the modern Greece.”
Mr Papastergiadis highlighted the lifelong impact such experiences would have: “It’s critical as part of your development as young people to experience other cultures.”
“One of the oldest and most profound civilizations in the world is the Hellenic civilization, and these friendships, these relationships, and your experiences will remain for life. Over time, you will gain a greater understanding of who you are, where you’re from, and what you saw,” Mr Papastergiadis added.
“You are very fortunate to have this opportunity, and it is thanks to the tireless work of the Region of Attica and the Greek Community of Melbourne.”
He also urged the young participants to stay connected when they return to Australia.
“Language is at the heart of our civilisation. Don’t be embarrassed if you get words wrong – keep learning and continue your Greek schools. That’s how you build a deeper connection with Greece and with each other,” Mr Papastergiadis added.
Organisers noted that the benefits of the program extend well beyond Greece. From last year’s camp, many participants returned to Melbourne eager to engage more deeply with the Greek community, volunteering at events, enrolling in language classes and joining cultural dance groups. They stressed that this year’s group is already showing the same enthusiasm.
At the conclusion of the meeting, each participant was presented with a gift from the Governor’s Office – a gesture of philoxenia that underscored the warmth of the welcome. The smiles and applause that followed reflected how deeply the experience resonated with the young people.
This visit, one of the key elements of the Melbourne community’s camp program, offered more than a tour of official halls. It created space for dialogue, identity-building, and meaningful connections between Greece and its diaspora youth.
With the continued support of the Region of Attica and the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne, the camp is strengthening a bridge that promises to endure for generations.
