A warm welcome reception at the Grand Serai Congress and Spa in Ioannina, Greece marked the start of the inaugural Global ‘Women and Hellenism’ Conference, a groundbreaking event that officially began on Monday, September 2.
Bringing together 43 presenters and 150 enthusiastic participants, including women and men from Greece and the Greek diaspora, this historic conference celebrates the power of Hellenism and the strength of women in shaping a more inclusive and vibrant future.
As delegates and presenters arrived at the centrally located Grand Serai Congress and Spa hotel in Ioannina, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement, culminating in an evening of introductions and camaraderie at the welcome reception.
The conference was officially opened by Greek Australian journalist Helen Kapalos, who served as the Master of Ceremonies for the morning presentations. First speaker was Founder and Chair of the Food for Thought Network, Varvara Athanasiou-Ioannou AM, the convener of the conference, to deliver her welcome address.
A call to action: Women and Hellenism
Mrs Ioannou’s speech set the tone for the conference, emphasising the importance of Hellenism, identity, and sustainability as guiding principles. She described the event as more than just a gathering—it is a movement to honour heritage, empower women, and pave the way for future generations.
“Today, we stand at the crossroads of tradition and innovation,” Mrs Ioannou declared. “This inaugural Global ‘Women and Hellenism’ Conference is a call to action to honour our heritage, empower each other, and make a lasting difference for our families and communities.”
She reflected on the two years of dedicated planning and the challenges faced in organising the conference on a zero budget. Through the generosity and collaboration of many, the conference has come to life, uniting Greek women from around the world to share experiences, research, and strategies for success.
Mrs Ioannou also highlighted the critical need for women to build strong connections in order to take meaningful action on the issues that matter most. She emphasised the potential of Hellenic women to effect change across a variety of fields, stating, “Together, we can create change. United, we can make a difference.”
“Our wish is that you leave here inspired, challenged, nurtured, and with a sense of purpose and many new friends. Together we can act. Together we can create change. United we can,” Mrs Ioannou added.
Dignitaries and special guests
The opening ceremony saw notable dignitaries welcoming delegates and expressing their support for the conference. First was Sofia Zacharaki, Greek Minister for Family and Social Cohesion, who sent her welcome salutation by video message.
Gioula Mitrokosta, representing the Region of Epirus, officially opened the event, followed by an address from the Mayor of Ioannina, Thomas Begas. Both officials praised the conference’s goals and pledged ongoing support and the importance of such events for the region of Epirus.
Saluting the event were also Marina Besi, Regional Director of Education in Epirus and the Mayor of Souli, Dr Athanasios Ntounis.
“It is especially honouring for the land to host the conference here and there should be a continuation and a recurring event,” Mayor Ntounis said.
From the USA, Stella Kokolis, Veteran teacher, President / Co-founder and Promoter of the Greek language, gave a very inspiring speech that was applauded by the audience.
Conference highlights: Empowerment through knowledge
The first session of the conference featured a thought-provoking presentation by Rector Ioanna Batistatou from the University of Ioannina on “Gender Inequality and Mobbing in Science.” Former Secretary General for Greeks Abroad, Professor Ioannis Chrysoulakis, addressed the role of women in Greek migration and the Greek language program that he helped create ‘Sta ellinika.’
“This is a groundbreaking and wonderful conference with many Greek women from the diaspora who traveled from all over the world to be here today in the historic city of Ioannina. It is a very dynamic step and will leave a very significant mark on the relations between the state and the diaspora,” Mr Chrysoulakis said.
American judges from Chicago Hon. Pamela Stratigakis and Hon. Peggy Chiampas gave a combined presentation on the topic of: “The Hellene in me: How my Hellenic heritage helped, hindered and shaped me into the woman I am today.”
“We have Greek blood and we should always be proud,” Judge Chiampas said.
On the topic of Greek women in politics, Despoina Limniotaki, Acting Municipal Councillor for Public Health in the Athens Council, spoke about the emergence of female leadership in the face of gender stereotypes.
‘Young Women’s Multifaceted Identity, Barriers and Enablers’ was the theme for the second half of the day. This was presented by Maria Dimopoulos AM, who took over the role of Master of Ceremonies from Ms Kapalos. A special tribute was given to the subject of domestic violence through a live performance by Christina Tzialla, theatrologist and performing artist. The work was written and recited by Ms Ioannou.
Chanel Contos, founder of Teach Us Consent, sent a video message as she couldn’t attend because of work commitments.
The day finished on a high note with the last speaker, opera singer Christiana Aloneftis reflecting on the liberation of the female voice in a patriarchal society. At the moment, Aloneftis is playing the young Maria Callas in the recent release of the film starring Angelina Jolie and she was traveling for three days to come to the event after the Venice Film Festival.
The Global Women & Hellenism Conference continues with one more day of insightful panel discussions and presentations. Delegates will also visit the historic sites of Ioannina and Epirus, including the renowned Dodoni Theatre, the scenic beauty of Zagorohoria, Acherontas river, and Parga.
