IOANNINA – The first Global Women and Hellenism Conference was held in Ioannina, Greece, September 2-6, at the Grand Serai Congress Hotel. It was not only was an absolute success, but also made history, being a milestone for strengthening the presence and role of Hellenic women.

A triumph for both women’s empowerment and promotion of the Greek heritage, the event included discussions opening new horizons for inclusion and equality. Organized by the Melbourne, Australia-based Food for Thought Network, the conference was well-attended by women from the Hellenic American Women’s Council (HAWC), and Greece’s Hellenic Association of Women in Culture and Tourism (HAWCT) as well as leading professionals from throughout Europe.

The Women and Hellenism Conference explored three main themes that are deeply connected to the mission of the Food For Thought Network, the organization founded by Varvara Athanasiou Ioannou, AM [Member of the Order of Australia], in Melbourne. Ioannou, of Epirotan heritage, has been operating this nonprofit on a voluntary basis for 23 years with over 500 members strong. She honored her roots and brought visibility to the region as the women were welcomed with open arms by the leaders and the townsfolk alike.

The three main themes of the conference included: ‘The Representation of Hellenism and its Influence on Women,’ examining how Hellenism has shaped the lives and identities of women around the world, highlighting the enduring influence of the rich, cultural heritage; ‘Multidimensional Identity’ with women from different walks of life shared their personal and professional journeys, offering strategies for success and knowledge to deal with complex issues of modern life, while maintaining the faith in our roots; and ‘The Sustainability of Hellenism’ with discussions focused on how to preserve and strengthen the Greek culture and values ​​in a rapidly changing world, ensuring that the future generations will continue to be inspired by our heritage.

With the participation of almost 200 leading women, each holding positions in corporate roles, education or nonprofits, the history-making conference laid the groundwork for the future generations of women who will continue to promote Hellenism and conquer new heights.

This first conference ‘Women and Hellenism’ in Ioannina, a magical place of impressive beauty surrounded by mountains, gorges and deep history, surpassed all anticipation, leaving a wave of excitement, empowerment, and deep connection among the participants. The rich program, the perfect organization, excellent speakers, and the hospitality of the Epirotans were just some of the highlights that impressed attendees. Of note is that Epirus, bound by the Pindus mountains to the east and the Ionian Sea on the west, was also the birthplace of Alexander the Great’s mother Olimpias.

From the very first day, the delegates had the opportunity to experience unique moments of connection, excitement, and great emotion. The last event on the first day focused on domestic violence, edited by Vasiliki Kateri, and moved the attendees. Actress Christina Tzialla, dressed as a bride who was murdered before she could enjoy her wedding, dramatizing the poem written and narrated by Ioannou, ‘We Must Stand Together,You and Me’ moved the women deeply. The delegates held papers with the names of women who were murdered by their own family members, delivering a powerful message against gender violence and genocides. Watch the video here: https://shorturl.at/Dwmod.

The second day culminated with the Gala Dinner at the Ioannina Club with wonderful food, music and dancing in the presence of Ioannina Mayor Thomas Bega, Deputy Mayor Christos Tatsis, Stefanos Zervas and Mayor of Souli Thanasis Danis, Deputy Regional Governor Christos Tatsis and many other officials. In a festive atmosphere and with wines offered by the Mayor of Zitsa and sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce of Ioannina, the evening left indelible memories.

Before the official dinner, Ioannou was honored by Stella Kokolis, a Founder of HAWC and President of the Federation of Greek-American Educators, with an olive branch. This presentation was a symbol of peace, honor and gratitude for Ioannou’s initiative to unite Hellenic women of the Diaspora and Greece. The program ended with a song, ‘I Am a Woman,’ written by Anthi Sidiropoulou inspired by Ioannou’s voluntary efforts and inspiring the delegates to dance. Watch the video: https://shorturl.at/abTla.

The third day of the conference included a tour of Ioannina by the department of tourism of the Municipality of Ioannina and then a guided tour of the picturesque stone villages known as Zagorochoria. In the town of Asprangelos, the group was welcomed by the Mayor of Zagori Georgios Soukovelos who showed the local hospitality with the town residents offering drinks and sweets. The day ended with a tribute poem to women ‘Only for Women’ by Anna Bithikotsi. You can hear her recite it here: https://shorturl.at/V4mdN and songs written to Grigoris Bithikotsis and sung by Sotiris Doganos.

The last day ended with a visit to the ancient Dodoni, the home of the oldest Greek Oracle and its ancient theatre which still holds performances today and had at its height the capacity to seat at least 15,000 people. The delegates also enjoyed rafting on the Acheron river, where the Mayor welcomed the delegates and Souliou doctor Thanasis Danis offered coffee and sweets. The final dinner at Med Club in Parga was the highlight of the tour, with warm hospitality from Parga Mayor Nikos Zacharias who presented each guest with a gift bag of local olive oil and handmade soap.