Greek American Michael Kratsios has been officially sworn in as the new head of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) in a ceremony conducted by Vice President JD Vance.
The event took place in the Vice President’s ceremonial office and was attended by Kratsios’ wife, Alyssa, mother, Maria, and various current and former White House colleagues.
His appointment was confirmed by the Senate with a 74-25 vote, coinciding with the anniversary of the National Rebirth.
At 38 years old, Kratsios becomes the youngest person to lead the OSTP, where he will play a key role in shaping US policies on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Quantum Computing.
Photo: The Office of Vice President Vance.
He will also advise President Donald Trump on science and technology’s impact on both domestic and international affairs.
Kratsios is no stranger to working with the Trump administration, having previously served as the President’s Chief Technology Officer, where he led the development of the US Artificial Intelligence Strategy and other groundbreaking initiatives.
He also served as Under Secretary of Defence, overseeing the largest research and development budget in the world.
He has received numerous accolades, including the Distinguished Public Service Medal from the Ministry of Defence, and was featured in Fortune‘s “40 Under 40.”
The Senior Dancers of Sydney’s Pontoxeniteas NSW were special guests at this year’s Assyrian New Year festival in western Sydney on Sunday, March 30.
Amongst those who enjoyed their performance were Federal Opposition Leader the Hon Peter Dutton MP and NSW Premier Chris Minns.
Led by Pontoxeniteas NSW President Maria Anthony and Dance Instructor Christina Iwannidou, they performed a set of traditional dances from the Black Sea region, accompanied by Kosta Papoulidis on lyra and Peter Tsenkas on daouli (drum).
The Pontian dancers later joined their Assyrian hosts in performing a traditional Assyrian folk dance, a powerful show of solidarity and multiculturalism in action.
Assyrians and Hellenes have a relationship going back millennia, with its origins lost in time. Hellas and Cyprus have served as safe havens for the Christian Assyrian people, especially during the times of their genocides in the early 1900s. Since the Gulf Wars of the 1990s, thousands of Assyrians have fled their homeland in modern Iraq and Syria, temporarily settling in Hellas and Cyprus before arriving as refugees in Australia.
Rescue efforts continue in central Myanmar following a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake on March 28, which killed over 1,700 people and caused widespread destruction.
The quake, followed by a 6.7-magnitude aftershock, left buildings, hospitals, roads, and power supplies in ruins.
Local volunteers, many poorly equipped, are working tirelessly to find survivors in the rubble, but access remains difficult due to damaged infrastructure.
In Sagaing, rescue teams are struggling to recover bodies, with reports of up to 100 still trapped in collapsed buildings.
The death toll in neighbouring Thailand stands at at least 18, with ongoing search efforts at a collapsed construction site in Bangkok.
Myanmar’s ruling junta confirmed at least 1,700 deaths and over 3,400 injuries, with many more missing. The scale of the devastation is expected to take days to fully assess.
Experts predict the death toll could surpass 10,000, with losses potentially exceeding Myanmar’s annual economic output.
In the wake of the disaster, the US pledged $2 million in aid, while China, Russia, India, and several Southeast Asian nations have sent rescue teams and supplies.
The news and images from Myanmar and Thailand are heartbreaking. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the earthquake. On behalf of all Greeks, I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims.
Despite international help, aid delivery is complicated by the ongoing conflict in Myanmar, where the military junta is battling opposition groups.
The National Unity Government, set up to oppose the junta, declared a two-week ceasefire in quake-hit regions and is coordinating with UN and NGOs to provide relief.
The earthquake adds to Myanmar’s ongoing humanitarian crisis, exacerbating food insecurity, displacement, and healthcare shortages.
Local reports indicate a severe lack of government assistance in some areas, with many communities left to manage without outside help.
Global leaders, including Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and President Konstantinos Tasoulas, expressed their condolences, with Mitsotakis offering heartfelt sympathies to those affected by the disaster.
“The news and images from Myanmar and Thailand are heartbreaking. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the earthquake. On behalf of all Greeks, I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims,” Mitsotakis wrote on X.
Tasoulas similarly extended well wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured, and the hope that damage would be restored quickly.
In a joyful and historic ceremony on March 29, Archbishop Ioannis (Pelushi) was officially enthroned as the new Primate of the Orthodox Autocephalous Church of Albania at the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ in Tirana.
The event marked the beginning of a new era for the Church, following the passing of Archbishop Anastasios, who spent over thirty years rebuilding the Church after the atheist persecution.
The ceremony was attended by various Orthodox Church representatives, government officials, diplomatic missions, and a large crowd of faithful.
His Grace Bishop Anastasios of Krujë read the Holy Synod’s encyclical, and the official enthronement service followed.
Addresses were given by key figures, including Metropolitan Nikolaos of Apollonia and Fier, Fr Alexios Donis, Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon, and Albanian President Bajram Begaj.
In his enthronement speech, Archbishop Ioannis expressed deep gratitude, honouring the martyrs of Illyria and his predecessors, especially Archbishop Anastasios.
He outlined seven key priorities for his ministry, including preserving Holy Tradition, strengthening Church unity, and promoting inter-religious coexistence in Albania.
The ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Albanian President Bajram Begaj, Greek government representatives, and officials from various Orthodox Churches around the world. Following the service, an official luncheon was held to celebrate the event.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited Israel on Sunday, March 30, emphasising the strong defence ties between the two nations.
Addressing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Mitsotakis stated that the countries share “many security challenges” and that their defence cooperation is “critically important to us in Greece.”
Greece is currently in talks with Israel to purchase advanced artillery systems and a missile defense system similar to the Iron Dome, as part of its effort to bolster its defense amid tensions with Turkey.
The leaders discussed security, economic opportunities, and the prospects for lasting peace in the region.
For his part, Netanyahu highlighted the shared history, values, and common interests of Greece and Israel.
Netanyahu remarked, “We are two ancient peoples… Our free civilisation started in Athens and Jerusalem,” reinforcing the deep historical and cultural connections between Greece and Israel.
Είχα τη χαρά να συναντήσω τον Πρωθυπουργό του Ισραήλ Benjamin Netanyahu. Κατά τη διάρκεια της συνάντησης επαναβεβαιώσαμε τη στρατηγική σχέση Ελλάδας-Ισραήλ και συζητήσαμε για την περαιτέρω εμβάθυνση της διμερούς συνεργασίας ιδιαίτερα στον τομέα της άμυνας. https://t.co/IVaURav1m4pic.twitter.com/nrfZhh7UVQ
Earlier, Mitsotakis met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, who explained that Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza aim to secure the return of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Herzog stressed that the hostages’ return is Israel’s “highest priority.”
Mitsotakis, who had previously visited Israel after October 2023, condemned the hostage situation and reiterated calls for their “immediate and unconditional release.”
He also expressed condolences to the family of Greek citizen Jonas Chrosis, who was killed in a Hamas attack in Jaffa last October, and announced a scholarship program in his honour.
In his guestbook note, Mitsotakis emphasised the “strategic partnership and strong ties of friendship” between Greece and Israel.
In a packed hall on Wednesday, 26 March, the unveiling of a new painting by artist Angela Kiki, titled ‘The Maniatisses’, marked a moving tribute by AHEPA NSW to Greece’s National Day on 25 March 1821.
The painting honours the women of Mani, who famously left their fields on 24 June 1826 to fight invading forces using sickles and knives. Through this powerful artwork, tribute was paid to all those who sacrificed their lives for Greek freedom during the War of Independence.
Ms Kiki herself presented the painting and spoke about the history behind it. The story of the women of Mani was shared with her by Dimitra Micos, which inspired her to create the piece.
Dimitra Micos (left) with artist Angela Kiki (right). All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
Dominated by hues of black and yellow, the painting vividly conveys the women’s passion to defend their homes and families. In contrast, the expressions on the faces of the Ottoman soldiers reflect fear and dread in the face of these fierce defenders.
The AHEPA NSW event was honoured by several distinguished guests, including Greek MPs Thanasis Papathanasis (New Democracy) and Miltiadis Zamparas (SYRIZA), Anastasia Christofilopoulou from the Public Diplomacy Office of the Greek Consulate-General in Sydney, Bayside Councillor and Liberal candidate for Barton Fiona Douskou, and Georges River Councillor and Labor candidate for Barton Ash Ambihaipahar.
Thanasis Papathanasis (New Democracy).Miltiadis Zamparas (SYRIZA).
Perhaps the most thoughtful comment of the evening came from AHEPA NSW President Dimitri Papanagiotou. In his welcome speech, he prompted the audience to reflect deeply on how we must remember and honour our ancestors, but it is equally vital that our own generation contributes meaningfully for the sake of our descendants.
AHEPA NSW President Dimitri Papanagiotou.Fiona Douskou.Anastasia Christofilopoulou.
Travelling from Melbourne for the event was Athanasios Tsouhantaris, President of the Victorian branch of New Democracy. Also present was John Kallimanis, President of New Democracy’s NSW branch and Honorary President of AHEPA NSW.
Con Zannetides, a member of the Archdiocesan Council and President of the Parish of Saint Sophia and Three Daughters, was also present along with a large number of representatives from Greek Australian media and community organisations.
Adding to the ceremony’s atmosphere were four young dancers from the Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney, dressed in traditional costumes. Master of Ceremonies, Vivian Nikolareas, also wore a Maniot outfit and fulfilled her role with poise and elegance.
Master of Ceremonies, Vivian Nikolareas.
The national anthems of Greece and Australia were sung with passion by Jim Tsolakis, President of the Australian Hellenic Choir, while the Ode was recited by Bill Skandalakis, a retired officer of the Royal Australian Air Force.
Jim Tsolakis.Bill Skandalakis.
The historical context of the day was explored by historian Dr Panayiotis Diamantis, through five paintings by the diaspora artist: ‘Zalongo,‘ ‘Dervenakia,’‘Maniatisses,‘ ‘The Homeland‘ and ‘Kolokotronis.’
Closing his brief address, Dr Diamantis recited a poem written about the Greek War of Independence titled “Greece and Her Freedom”. Authored by an anonymous writer in the Antipodes, it was first published in The Australian newspaper on 30 January 1829.
With the Greek Australian community now made up overwhelmingly of Australian-born Greeks, these stories that link Hellenism with Australia are vital for the continued growth and development of Greek identity in the Antipodes. This mission lies at the heart of all AHEPA NSW’s initiatives.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
Gone are the days when beauty pageants focused solely on the physical appearance of contestants. Pageants have evolved into platforms where ambitious and determined young women can make a name for themselves and stand up for causes they believe in.
One such young woman is Chleo Eve, a women’s and youth peer support worker from Chadstone, Victoria.
She sat down with The Greek Herald to share her vision for the future and discuss competing for the title of Miss Galaxy Australia 2025.
Chleo is 21 years old but is wise beyond her years. Her father was Greek, but sadly, he passed away when she was only four years old.
“I was raised by my mum, and she did everything to connect me with my Greek culture, from cooking lessons with our Greek neighbours to teaching us kids Greek,” she said.
Chleo is very excited for this year’s pageant season, as she was able to create an outfit that represents her heritage. She has many achievements she’s proud of and found it challenging to choose just one.
“At the end of 2024, in just two months, I was able to raise funds for women, members of the LGBT community, and young people. The issues they faced included homelessness, sexual assault, domestic violence, and hate crimes. In those two months, we, as a community, raised $5,000!”
This is Chleo’s third year competing in pageants.
“I first joined Galaxy Pageants because I wanted to learn to love myself for who I am, build confidence, and make friends. In my first year, I met so many amazing people with incredible backgrounds and challenges they’ve had to face, and then they turned those challenges into something beautiful. These women are advocating and making true changes in their communities,” she said.
Chleo was so inspired by this experience that she now has her own platform: More Than Bananas, advocating against sexual assault and domestic violence, as well as promoting consent training.
She chose Miss Galaxy Australia because she felt she truly embodied the pageant’s motto: “Be the Best Version of Yourself.”
“In the three years I’ve competed with them, I feel like I’ve truly become the best version of myself!” she said.
In 2023, Chleo competed in her first pageant and took home the #GalaxyGirl award.
“I was the first person to ever win this award. It was because I demonstrated the true values of their system: courage, bravery, and sisterhood,” she explained.
In 2024, she won the Miss Congeniality award, given to the contestant voted most supportive and friendly by her fellow competitors. Chleo hopes that through her platform More Than Bananas and her work as a peer support worker, she can make a difference for women who have experienced domestic violence and sexual assault.
“I created my platform to bring to the Galaxy stage. I believe that if we provide children and young adults with the right education about friendships and relationships, and if we implement consent training workshops in workplaces, we will be able to see real change,” she said.
Chleo also feels that there are many misconceptions about pageants, particularly the notion that it’s a race to the crown.
“For me, it’s always been about my own personal journey and running my own race to be the best version of myself,” she said.
One topic that’s especially important today is confidence, particularly considering the impact of social media. Many young women struggle with confidence and self-esteem, and Chleo has some advice for her peers.
“Learning to love yourself and gaining confidence can be a hard and long journey for some. Surrounding yourself with positive people, finding a hobby you love, and taking time to give yourself some TLC is so important,” she said.
In five years, Chleo hopes to have a successful career in the fashion industry for pageant girls.
“I love designing my own clothes while competing. Last year, a young girl competing for Miss Global had me design her national costume. It brought me such joy to see my design on stage, worn by someone other than myself,” she said.
The Food for Thought Network Inc. is inviting people to a significant online event focused on menopause awareness and empowerment.
The event will be held on Saturday, April 5 at 2pm (Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney time) via Zoom.
Menopause is a natural yet often overlooked stage in a woman’s life. This event aims to provide evidence-based, reliable information, practical advice, and support, helping women navigate this transition with confidence and knowledge.
The four distinguished Greek women experts are:
Two medical doctors – Clinical Associate Professor Magdalene Simonis and Sophia Avramoudas
A clinical psychologist & academic – Dr Aspasia Rabba
Niki Louca from My Greek Kitchen shares her favourite recipe for the easiest five-minute Artisan Bread with The Greek Herald. You can follow her on Instagram @mygreekkitchen for more!
Ingredients:
1 kg strong bread flour
2 tsp dry yeast
2 tsp salt
2 tbsp EVVO
3 ¼ – 3 ½ cups warm water
Method:
Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl except for the salt and only 3 cups of the water to start off with. Stir with the back of a wooden spoon and slowly add the remainder of the water – now add your salt and stir again till incorporated. You should have a wet and loose dough and will not be able to handle/shape into a ball. Do not knead.
Cover with glad wrap or a loose lid and allow to rest and rise (anything between 2-4 hours). If the dough is not rising, move it to a warm spot in your kitchen and cover with a tea towel. Once it has risen, place in your fridge overnight.
The next morning, remove from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature – about an hour or so.
Pre-heat your oven to 220C/450F for a minimum of 30 minutes.
When you are ready to bake, place your dutch oven and/or baking trays in the oven for a minimum of 15 minutes to warm up as well.
Sprinkle your work surface with a little bit of flour and scrape dough out of your bowl. Sprinkle some more flour on the top of the dough and with your scraper divide dough into 2.
Shape each piece into a ball and transfer to some baking paper. Place dough and baking paper on your tray or Dutch oven and place in the oven. Repeat for the second piece.
Bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until dark golden colour. Tap the bottom of the loaf and listen for a hollow sound. When done, remove from the oven and place on a cooling rack. Allow to cool down before you cut it.
Between 1828 and 1830, the Greek administration undertook the collection of statistical data concerning the population and settlements of the Peloponnese. Through systematic research, which involved the identification and mapping of approximately 1,800 place names, it became possible to reconstruct the demographic landscape of the Peloponnese at the conclusion of the Greek Revolution.
This presentation will first outline the key characteristics of settlement distribution and population patterns in the Peloponnese during this period.
Moreover, it will briefly examine specific issues such as the impact of military conflicts on settlements and population mobility – both Christian and Muslim – the fundamental features of the rural economy (including agriculture and livestock farming) during the turbulent years of the war, and the significance of studying the etymological origins of place names prior to the renaming process carried out by the Greek state following its establishment.
BIO:
Dr Michael Festas was born in Athens in 1986 and is a graduate of the Department of History and Archaeology at the Faculty of Philosophy of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, holding both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. He completed his doctoral dissertation in the same department, titled “The Settlements of the Peloponnese during the Greek Revolution: Space, Population, and Habitation”.
His research interests focus on the study of population history, settlements, and the geography of the Greek territory during the period of Ottoman rule and in modern times. He is well-versed in the cartographic capabilities offered by Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for historical research and has published articles on the history of settlements and the population of the Peloponnese during the Revolution in both Greek and international academic journals.
He has worked as an external research associate on numerous projects at the Institute of Historical Research of the National Hellenic Research Foundation and the Department of History and Archaeology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.
Event Details:
When: Thursday 5 April 2025, 7pm (8am UK time, 10am Athens time)
Speaker: Dr Michael Festas
Seminar: The population and the settlements of the Peloponnese during the Greek Revolution
