On Friday, 26 May, at The Ritz-Carlton in Melbourne there will be a launch of an initiative this week instigated by leading women from the Greek Australian community and business sectors aimed at combating poverty, inequality, and disadvantage in Greece.
The Women in Philanthropia, operating under the umbrella of The Hellenic Initiative (THI) Australia, aims to tap into the collective power of women’s generosity and their profound love for Greece.
Freda Miriklis, Chair of Women in Philanthropia and Board Director of THI Australia, highlighted the need for this movement, stating:
“We are a growing force driven by the desire to acknowledge and channel women’s passion for their Greek heritage into meaningful giving back.”
Miriklis affirmed that Women in Philanthropia would collaborate closely with THI Australia to identify the most appropriate charitable endeavors to advance the needs of women, youth, and vulnerable communities in Greece, particularly in areas such as education, healthcare, social services, and employment.
Esteemed women leaders from Australia’s Greek diaspora and philhellenes will gather to demonstrate their gratitude, resilience, and unwavering support for Greece while officially inaugurating this new initiative for empowered giving and fortified connections.
THI Australia’s impactful contribution to Greece’s future
Greece’s struggles, after the Greek Financial Crisis of 2010-2017, resulting austerity measures, then COVID-19, and the effects of the war in Ukraine, have impacted. Women, in particular, have been disproportionately affected, rendering them more vulnerable to poverty. Inflation on energy and food have further widened income inequalities.
THI Australia says it wants to build a “brighter and more secure future for Greece and its people by facilitating collaborative projects that deliver social, health, and economic benefits while addressing geopolitical considerations.”
According to a statement by THI Australia through partnerships with business and charity organisations, it has made a significant difference in the lives of those living below the poverty line, lonely elderly individuals, and the homeless and destitute in Greece.
Notable achievements include supporting over 2,400 at-risk individuals in Attica annually, empowering more than 43,000 schoolchildren from over 400 schools to engage in volunteerism and become active citizens, and providing healthcare and social programs to over 7,000 vulnerable community members in Athens.
THI Australia’s Internship Program has offered young Greek graduates the invaluable opportunity to spend six months in Australia, gaining hands-on experience in their respective fields.
THI Australia’s Volunteering Program enables Australian visitors to Greece to actively participate in on-the-ground relief efforts, working closely with their partner charities.
