Pontoxeniteas NSW proudly celebrated International Women’s Day on Sunday, March 9, at the Pontian House in Earlwood, Sydney.
The event brought together young people, families, members, and friends, including special guest Peter Papoulidis, President of Panagia Soumela Sydney, along with his committee.
In recognition of this year’s global IWD theme, Pontoxeniteas NSW honoured its Pontian Amazones and embraced the spirit of Marching Forward Together with the community.
The Pontoxeniteas Youth Committee, led by Eleni Lambousis, Kiki Moysiadou, and Zoe Karatasas, expertly hosted the event as MCs, demonstrating the next generation’s leadership and commitment to community.
Celebrating Pontian women in leadership
A key feature of the event was a panel discussion featuring three inspirational Pontian women whose leadership and community involvement began at Pontoxeniteas:
- Helen Macris – The first female president of Pontoxeniteas (2014), Helen was born in Siberia (now Kazakhstan) and later pursued a successful career in education, teaching ESL at Ashfield for 25 years.
- Cathy Dimarchos – A former dance student and Youth Committee member in the 1980s, Cathy is now a Global Advisor-Strategist advocating for social justice and economic security. With over 35 years of experience in finance, business, and counselling, she works internationally, including running programs in Africa for youth, women, farmers, and entrepreneurs.
- Esta Paschalidis-Chilas – President of the Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia and Vice President of Pontoxeniteas, Esta grew up as a Pontian dance student and is now a Social Worker, not-for-profit CEO, and former Councillor for Canterbury Council. Her leadership journey has been shaped by the support and mentorship of other women.
Honouring women’s contributions
Pontoxeniteas proudly recognised three women for their service in the Women’s Auxiliary and Pontoxeniteas Committee:
- Mrs Effie Tsavdaridis – Former Treasurer of the Pontoxeniteas Women’s Committee.
- Mrs Gefsi Kouklidis – Dedicated committee member of Pontoxeniteas.
- Mrs Maria Tsakiridis – Long-serving committee member of Pontoxeniteas.
Pontoxeniteas extended heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to these remarkable women for their commitment and continued support of our association.
Cultural performances and community spirit
The event was enriched by traditional Pontian dance performances, with students, under the guidance of teacher Christina Iwannidou, delivering a mesmerising display of the unique dances traditionally performed by Pontian women.
Live Pontian music accompanied the dancers, with young musicians providing the authentic sounds and rhythms that brought the performances to life.
Guests also indulged in a spectacular High Tea table, featuring an array of delicious treats that were almost too beautiful to eat.
