A number of Greek Australian women representing a diverse range of community organisations met at the Greek Centre on Sunday to take part in the inaugural Women’s Forum.
The brainchild of Tammy Iliou, Vice-President of the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), the event was a chance to discuss and design the pathway for active participation of women in Greek community organisations and affairs.
“Our community, our paroikia, can only improve through initiatives that enhance cross-collaboration, activism and interest in community affairs, as well as sharing insight and experience,” said Ms Iliou in her opening address.
Among those participating on the day were Greek Consul Georgia Mpotsiou, representing the Consul General of Greece in Melbourne Dimitris Mihalopoulos; Maria Vamvakinou MP, Federal Member for Calwell; and Kat Theophanous MP, Victorian Member for Northcote, along with a host of other locals, as well as representation from interstate Greek community organisations.
Three panel discussions took place, during which participants shared their experience, insight and advice within a supportive and encouraging environment.
Forum participants were in agreement that being involved in an organisation as a volunteer can be difficult to balance in conjunction with work, family, health and general life. But there was also recognition of the importance of their Greek heritage, community, and more broadly, volunteerism.
Participants also discussed results of a survey conducted by the GCM prior to the Forum, including findings on key issues which affect Greek Australian women and initiatives that could enhance ongoing dialogue, active participation and create pathways into community organisations, especially at leadership level.
On the day, the GCM announced a series of initiatives:
‘Εσύ: Women Inspiring Change’: Aims to develop and design the pathways for active participation of women in Greek community organisations and affairs;
Upskilling: GCM will offer women who volunteer on a board of a community organisation access to a free workshop to elevate their understanding of the duties and responsibilities of board directors, good governance and financial literacy;
Continuation of the Women’s Forums: Aims to facilitate and progress dialogue, along with the creation of a tailor created Slack Channel;
Mentoring: GCM will facilitate a guidance program for women who are under 25 and interested in community affairs to be partnered with women involved in community affairs.
The day was also a chance to showcase a range of creative women in the Greek community, including a musical performance, live-painting demonstration, as well as dancing, food and wine.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, GCM President Bill Papastergiadis endorsed the Forum and its objectives, and congratulated Ms Iliou for her vision to create and lead it.
“I want you to know that you are all playing an important role in moving this organisation, and the many community organisations that are here today, forward – and to be more inclusive,” Ms Iliou said.
“This change starts with you and your presence. Balance is better. And, that is why we are here today.
“Today is a launching day, and from now on, we will focus on delivering these, as well as other initiatives and ideas.”
Source: neoskosmos.com