The Sydney University Greek Society (SUGS) has elected its 2026–27 committee, with a renewed commitment to deepening cultural engagement and fostering a close-knit community among its members.
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Society took place on Tuesday, March 17 at the Social Sciences Building at the University of Sydney, with a strong turnout of members in attendance.
SUGS’ new president, Maria Kakali, speaking for and on behalf of the incoming committee, expressed excitement for the year ahead and a clear vision for building on the legacy of previous committees.
“We aim to strengthen the sense of belonging that defines SUGS, while placing a greater emphasis on cultural connection and engagement with Hellenism,” she said.
“Our focus is on cultivating a more tight-knit community where members feel genuinely connected. Not only through social events, but through shared language, traditions and a deeper understanding of our heritage.”
Maria also highlighted the importance of identity and the role of Greek youth within the diaspora.
“As young members of the Greek diaspora, we carry a strong sense of pride in our identity. SUGS plays an important role in creating a space where that identity can be explored, celebrated and passed on, ensuring that our culture remains vibrant and meaningful for future generations,” she said.
The SUGS president added that the committee is particularly committed to promoting Greek culture in both social and intellectual ways.
“We are passionate about encouraging engagement with Greek language, history, religion and contemporary issues, while also creating meaningful opportunities for members to connect with one another and the broader Greek Australian community,” she said.
Maria noted that collaboration remains a key priority for the year ahead.
“We look forward to working closely with the Department of Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies, as well as other student societies and community organisations, to deliver initiatives that bring people together and strengthen our cultural presence on campus,” she concluded.
The full Committee is:
- President: Maria Kakali
- Vice President: Natasha Scionti
- Treasurer: Janni Evangelidis
- Secretary: Anne-Marie Aroney
- Marketing Officer: Alexander Stylianou
- General Committee: Mary Glekas, Vasiliki Delimarkou, Chrysoula Kirkis, Philip Antipas, Penny Kalantzis
- First Year Representatives: Anthony Parissis, Paraskevi Brakoulias
