Nick Kyriazopoulos, General Manager of the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOSCA), will be stepping down next month after almost 15 years with the organisation.
His time at the GOSCA coincided with growth for the community group, as one of the largest ethno-specific organisations in South Australia.
He played a key role in seeing them expand their presence in the multicultural space, and was especially pivotal in the operation of the Ridleyton Home for the Aged and the acquisition of the Camden Community Centre.
It was at Ridleyton where Kyriazopoulos helped establish and develop initiatives such as the Dementia Respite “Limani” program – which supports people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who live with the disease, as well as their carers.
Acquiring the 40+ year old Camden Community Centre ensured that the organisation was able to survive and keep servicing the broader community.
Kyriazopoulos says that initiatives like this demonstrates how groups can help others, not just those of their own.
“It was a big eye opener for me, in what a community-based organisation could and should do to assist other communities. It also highlights GOCSA’s vision to evolve and assist all South Australians,” he said.
He also reflected on his time with the community and the changes that must come with the new government outlook on cultural groups.
“It has been a privilege to work in a not-for-profit environment where the aim has always been to benefit our members.”
“However, as Governments in Australia are changing their focus on the longstanding cultural groups such as the Greek Community, we will need to move to a different level of not just being supported but providers of support.
“Act as role models and mentors to the new arrivals. As we have existed for over 93 years and we should have as a Community become well established in Australia and have the expertise to know what is required to provide services to those in need. We must evolve.”
With Kyriazopoulos stepping down, the search for a new GM begins for GOCSA, who will continue to support multiculturalism in South Australia.
