Greek Australians shine as finalists in 2025 Greek International Women Awards

·

Greek women across the world are being recognised for their courage, talent, and leadership through the Greek International Women Awards (GIWA) – and this year, several remarkable Australians of Hellenic heritage have made the shortlist.

The GIWA initiative celebrates the achievements of Greek women who have excelled across diverse professional fields, from business and education to media, fashion, and social responsibility. Its mission is to showcase the strength and impact of Greek women globally, while inspiring others to break barriers and pursue their goals.

Now entering its public voting phase, the Awards invite the community to cast their votes via GIWA’s official website until 26 October 2025. Public votes will contribute 25% toward the final result, with the remaining decision determined by an international judging panel. To take part, voters must register online here and vote in at least five categories.

Hellenic Australians making their mark

Among this year’s standout finalists are several women whose work has made a profound impact across Australia and beyond.

Dimitra Skalkos, Publisher of The Greek Herald, is a finalist in ‘Media and Marketing Communications.’ Having led the publication’s digital transformation and expanded its reach to new generations, Ms Skalkos continues to advocate for multicultural representation and journalistic integrity within Australia’s media landscape.

Fellow media leader Andriana Simos, Digital Editor of The Greek Herald, has been nominated in the ‘Social Responsibility’ category for her commitment to socially conscious journalism and advocacy. Through initiatives such as The Greek Herald Woman of the Year, she has elevated women’s voices within the Greek Australian community and championed conversations around mental health, disability, and inclusion.

In ‘Social Responsibility’, Varvara Athanasiou-Ioannou AM has also been recognised for her lifelong commitment to empowering Greek women globally. As founder of the Food for Thought Network and organiser of the Global Women and Hellenism Conference, she has united communities across continents, amplifying the voices of women in leadership.

From the corporate and humanitarian sector, Violet Roumeliotis AM, CEO of Settlement Services International (SSI), is shortlisted in ‘Business and Entrepreneurship.’ A multi-award-winning advocate for inclusion and refugee support, Violet has transformed SSI into one of Australia’s largest and most impactful not-for-profit organisations.

In the field of ‘Education and Psychology,’ Dr Angela Evangelinou-Yiannakis of Western Australia stands out as a lifelong educator, academic, and advocate for Greek language teaching, while Chanel Contos has been shortlisted for her groundbreaking advocacy on consent education and gender equality. The founder of Teach Us Consent, Contos has influenced national policy reform and sparked a global conversation on respect and empowerment among young people

Angela Nicolades, a celebrated couture designer, represents Australia in the ‘Fashion’ category, recognised for her artistry and lifelong dedication to Hellenic-inspired craftsmanship.

A celebration of global Hellenic excellence

The GIWA Awards offer a platform for Greek women worldwide to be celebrated not only for their professional achievements but also for their enduring cultural identity.

Voting is now open via the official GIWA website. Supporters are encouraged to register, review finalist profiles, and help shape the final outcome before 26 October 2025.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

EU Chief Prosecutor calls for end to ministerial immunity in Greece

EU chief prosecutor Laura Kövesi has called for changes to Greece’s justice system, urging constitutional reform to remove immunity rules.

Greek delegation launch hunger strike amid Israel detention over Gaza flotilla

Eleven members of a 27-strong Greek delegation detained during the Global Sumud Flotilla have begun a hunger strike to protest.

Manchester synagogue attack suspect identified

British police have identified the suspect in Thursday’s deadly attack outside a Manchester synagogue as 35-year-old Jihad al-Shamie.

Centenary tribute to Mikis Theodorakis fills Alpha with music, memory and Greek pride

Alpha Restaurant transformed on Sunday, September 28 as the Australian Hellenic Choir headlined a “Centenary Tribute to Mikis Theodorakis.”

Peter Coroneo: From country boy to Earlwood staple

For 50 years, Peter Coroneo has devoted his life to ensuring the eye health of thousands of people in the Sydney suburb of Earlwood.

You May Also Like

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew admitted to hospital for a second time during US trip

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew will be admitted to the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York to undergo an examination on Wednesday.

Australia and Cyprus outrank Greece in COVID Performance Index

The COVID Performance Index by the Lowy Institute found Australia and Cyprus performed in the top ten while Greece is lagging behind.

Greece’s Foreign Minister welcomes Egypt’s demarcation of western maritime borders

Greece's Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias has welcomed Egyptian President el-Sisi’s decree delimiting the western maritime borders of Egypt.