A proposal for an inaugural ‘Women and Hellenism’ Conference to be held in Ioannina next year has been put forward, offering a platform for Greek women from the diaspora and the homeland to convene.
The five-day conference is being organised by the Greek Australian women’s network, Food For Thought Network (FFTN) and the Greek Women and Friends Global Forum, and is set to run in September 2024 at the Grand SERAI Congress and Spa in Ioannina.
The event will feature keynote speakers and panel discussions centred around three broad themes: Representation of Hellenism, Barriers and Enablers to Women’s Participation in today’s world, Sustainability of Hellenism.
It will also entail two days’ worth of cultural trips to explore the Epirus region, visiting the areas of Ioannina, Zagorohoria, Preveza and Parga.
Various topics will be explored at this conference, including an examination of the historical representation of Hellenism in the diaspora and its profound impact on Greek women’s empowerment.
It will also explore how gender, age, culture, family status, education, sexuality and geography intersect to form the identity of Greek women in contemporary society and, more broadly, shed light on the diversity of experiences that shape Greek women today.
The conference aims to create a place where every Greek woman’s voice will be able to be heard and valued, celebrating the multifaceted identity and excellence of Greek women globally in all fields e.g. academia, professions, businesses, and community.
The organisers are exploring the possibility of the conference being under the auspices of the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad & Public Diplomacy, as well as also liaising with the Region of Epirus, relevant women Ministers in Greece and other Women’s Associations globally.
The feasibility of the conference will be assessed on the response rate during the expressions of interest phases, with further developments set for November this year if everything looks positive.
The organisers will commence calls for any interested speakers in November, with the current plan to confirm those speakers by March 2024.
The organising committee is in the process of seeking sponsors, partners, and in-kind support to for other expenses not covered by the registration fee.
For further information, registration and costs, the event is accepting expressions of interest up until October 25 at the following link: www.surveymonkey.com/r/9YR7KG6.
