More than 50 people gathered on Friday, May 15 for the Pan Korinthian Association of Melbourne and Victoria’s (PKA) trivia night at Axion Estin hall in Northcote.
Community members of all ages took part in the fun-filled evening, enjoying food, drinks and friendly competition as teams tested their knowledge across general knowledge, Greece and Korinthian-themed trivia rounds.
While not everyone in attendance had family ties to Korinthia (myself included), the committee warmly welcomed all members of the community to participate in the event and connect. The evening struck a perfect balance between relaxed socialising and engaging activities, offering a refreshing alternative to the more formal events often held within the Greek community.
Shorter individual speed rounds throughout the night also gave attendees the chance to take home prizes.
Sixteen-year-old Johanna C attended the trivia night and described the evening as “a fun event, getting together all the Korinthians and even people who aren’t from there.”
She also appreciated the opportunity to connect with her Greek culture, have fun, and “learn a bit along the way.”
The Pan Korinthian committee behind the event was Barbara Kokkinos Carydis (President), Effie Kapsalou (Treasurer), Spiros Espositos (Secretary), Maria Marinis (Vice President), Helen Halkias, Apostoli Kounelis, Vicki Filippatos, Kosta Triantafillou, Anastasia Coutie, Arthur Papastamopoulos and John Tzelepis.
President Barbara told The Greek Herald the association is focused on evolving to match the needs of its younger members.
“The PKA always had a strong following over the years. However, over time where the dinner dances were once very successful, they have now become less and less. The first generation has aged and has passed on,” she said.
“The PKA recognises that we need to provide different events to engage, attract and connect the next generation of Korinthians… and that includes my own children and grandchildren!”
Barbara said events like the trivia night are designed to attract the next generation, as well as their partners and friends who may not have a Greek background.
“These different but inclusive events will hopefully continue to attract and connect the next generation of Korinthians and to learn about the region of Korinthia,” she said, referencing a lecture and exhibition held last year on the history of town names in Korinthia.
“This was a way of getting the next generation to find out about where their grandparents came from.”
The committee also welcomes younger members of the community to attend meetings, get involved with events and learn more about how the volunteer-run organisation operates.
“We welcome new ideas and opinions and look forward to supporting the young generation when they are ready to branch out as the Korinthian youth group. Small steps with big ideas to come,” Barbara said.
Following the success of this year’s event, the association hopes to host another trivia night next year and welcomes all members of the community to attend.
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