Five entrepreneurial women from South Australia spoke about their career path in the business world at an event run by the Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce & Industry SA (HAACI SA) on Friday, September 20.
HAACI was formed in 1985 to promote and strengthen the economic and cultural ties between Greece and Australia. In June, the HAACI SA branch launched their membership drive so members can connect, interact and exchange knowledge and ideas.
Their recent event Celebrating SA Women of Hellenic Heritage in Business attracted around 50 women and men who were there to hear about stories of success from building an investment firm, to creating boutique chocolates, a tea business that exports around the world, how an award-winning cheese decorated with green ants has captured the US market, and a self-published poetry book to help with loss.
Special guests included the new Consul General of Greece in Adelaide, Alexandra Theodoropoulos; the SA Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs, Andrea Michaels MP; the SA Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Zoe Bettison MP; and Connie Bonaros MLC.
In her speech as emcee, Ms Bonaros paid a tribute to “all the uncelebrated women” – the wives of priests and the women’s auxiliary groups – who do what they do for “the love of community.”
“They bring together communities that hold funerals, that hold weddings, that hold baptisms and community events,” she said “I think that’s absolutely extraordinary.”
Chair of HACCI SA, Kosta Koutsonas thanked the VIP guests in attendance and gave a very moving speech, tearing up as he spoke of the influence his beloved grandmother had on him, as well as the influence of two women in the early days of his career, who were also role models in the world of engineering.
The five speakers shared similar themes in their speeches – how family role models shaped and influenced their success, their Greek heritage and how they developed their business idea to grow and develop in economic diversity.
The speakers were: Marissa Schulze (Director of Rise High Financial Solutions); Vicki Papazaharias (Founder of Adixions Luxe Chocolate); Kris Lloyd (Artisan Cheesemaker/manager of Woodside Cheese); Peggy Veloudos (co-founder TBar), and Doris Falidis Nikolas (author/poet).
HAACI SA board member and Associate Professor at the Adelaide Law School, Dr Sylvia Villios, said the event was an “outstanding” success that celebrated the “remarkable” business journeys of five women of Hellenic heritage.
“Each speaker brought their unique experiences, illustrating the intersection of family heritage, cultural pride, and entrepreneurial spirit,” she said.
“The diversity of industries—from finance to food, and from artisanal crafts to literature—made the event particularly powerful.
“It wasn’t just about celebrating success but acknowledging the challenges each of these women overcame and the communities they’ve built.
“Their stories underscored the strength and resilience of Hellenic women in business, resonating deeply with all attendees and offering valuable insights and inspiration.”
Dr Villios became involved with HACCI SA because of her commitment to foster opportunities for businesses and professionals within the Greek community.
“Our mission to support and promote the success of Hellenic entrepreneurs aligns with my professional values and personal goals,” she said.
“Additionally, I wanted to contribute to the growth of a platform that advocates for Greek businesses and professionals in South Australia and helps them achieve their full potential.”
There are plans to host similar events in the future.
“We are dedicated to fostering a supportive environment where female entrepreneurs and professionals can thrive,” Dr Villios said.
“We would love to have more people join us in supporting our members and driving our mission forward.
“We welcome anyone who is passionate about making a positive impact in the Hellenic business community to volunteer with HACCI SA.”
HACCI SA is a not-for-profit organisation and welcomes people who are passionate about making a positive impact in the Hellenic business community by volunteering. Find out more here.
*All photos: The Greek Herald / Martina Simos.
