The Embassy of Greece in Australia will present the inaugural Women of the Greek Diaspora Forum, an exciting event that will delve into the achievements, challenges, leadership, and influence of Greek Australian women across all fields of endeavour.
To be held at Parliament House in Canberra on Tuesday, 25 November 2025, the Forum will bring together women from across Australia for a day of discussion and inspiration through panels on Business, Politics & Law, Health & Science, Philanthropy, and Arts & Culture.
In partnership with The Hellenic Initiative Australia, the event will highlight the diverse contributions of Greek Australian women and explore how cultural identity continues to shape professional purpose and strengthen the enduring ties between Greece and Australia.
“Greek Australian women have contributed immensely to public life, culture, and the economy of Australia,” Stavros Venizelos, Ambassador of Greece to Australia, said.
“This Forum will honour their stories of leadership and resilience, and celebrate the enduring Hellenic values that continue to inspire and shape the future.”
Stergitsa Zamagias-Hill, CEO of The Hellenic Initiative Australia, said, “The Hellenic Initiative Australia is honoured to partner with the Embassy of Greece to deliver this important event.”
“Through the Women of the Greek Diaspora Forum, we celebrate not only achievement, but also connection between generations, between Greece and Australia, and among women who continue to lead with compassion and courage,” Ms Zamagias-Hill said.
The Women of the Greek Diaspora Forum marks a new platform for collaboration and recognition, shining a light on the contributions and challenges faced, and influence of women of Hellenic heritage in Australia’s professional, cultural, and civic life.
Event Details:
- Date: Tuesday, 25 November 2025 Time: 8.30am – 1.30pm
- Venue: Parliament House, Canberra
- Bookings essential: https://www.trybooking.com/DFZBM
- For more information about the event, please email info@thehellenicinitiative.com.au
Women of the Greek Diaspora Forum Participants
Health & Science
- Prof Vasso Apostolopoulos AM Professor Immunology, RMIT University
- Dr Melina Georgousakis Founder and Director, Franklin Women
- Prof Maria Kavallaris AM Head Transactional Cancer Nanomedicine, Children’s Cancer Institute
- Prof Maria Makrides Executive Director, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI)
- Prof Helen Zorbas AO Chair, National Breast Council Foundation
Business
- Marika Calfas Chief Executive Officer, NSW Ports
- Kathy Karabatsas Group Chief Financial Officer, Myer
- Dr Elena Limnios Chair, Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (HACCI) National Federation
- Helen Mastrocostas Financial Strategist, Aniko Group
- Violet Roumeliotis AM Chief Executive Officer, Settlement Services Australia
Politics & Law
- Fiona Douskou Councillor, Bayside Council
- Erin Feros Former Managing Partner, Allens Queensland
- The Hon. Justice Chrissa Loukas-Karlsson Resident Judge, Supreme Court ACT
- The Hon. Anthe Philippides Former Justice, Supreme Court Queensland
Arts & Culture
- Dr Helen Vatsikopoulos Walkley award winning journalist, academic, documentary maker
- Effy Alexakis Multi award winning documentary photographer
- Nina Angelo OAM Artist, author, storyteller, community activist
- Nia Karteris Chair, Greek Festival of Sydney, Director Greek Orthodox Community of NSW
Philanthropy
- Martine Jager Advisory Board, Maestro Talent
- Helen Mantzis Board Member, The Hellenic Museum
- Faye Spiteri OAM Chief Executive Officer, Fronditha Care
- Stergitsa Zamagias-Hill Chief Executive Officer, THI Australia
