The Greek Orthodox Community of St. George Brisbane is diving into an important conversation next Wednesday with their upcoming event, Exploring Greek Identity Through Social Media a presentation, led by Dr Melina Mallos, a visual art academic from the University of Melbourne. The event promises to shed light on how young Greek Australians are navigating and shaping their identities in the digital age.

Dr Mallos’s research, which delves into the social media habits of Greek migrant youth during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, offers a unique insight into the evolving nature of Greek Australian identity. It highlights how the virtual world has become a space for these young people to connect with their heritage and community, whether they’re in Brisbane or as far away as Chicago.

Social media has revolutionised our ability to maintain ties with the Hellenic diaspora worldwide. For young Greeks, platforms like Instagram and TikTok aren’t just for sharing photos or videos—they’ve become modern forums for expressing cultural values, seeking cultural safety, exploring ancestral roots, and building global networks of like-minded peers.

Yet, the digital landscape isn’t without its challenges. Alongside its power to connect, social media has also exposed us to issues like new cultural chauvinism, racism, cyberbullying, exploitation, and the spread of misinformation. In response, governments in Australia and beyond are now grappling with how to manage these risks on platforms dominated by powerful tech companies.

Dr Mallos’s talk will navigate this complex terrain, discussing how the digital realm can still be a space for positive cultural exchange and community building. For Greek Australians, this means reimagining what it means to be Greek in a world where traditions meet technology and the local blends seamlessly with the global.

This special event is dedicated to the memory of Esta Thiris, former Vice President and Councillor of the Greek Community, and is open to anyone curious about the intersection of digital technology and cultural identity. Join us for an evening of thought-provoking discussion and a pointer into the future of Greek Australian culture.

When: Wednesday, 7pm for a 7.30pm start

Where: The Aegean Room, The Greek Club, 29 Edmondstone Street, South Brisbane

Admission: Free. Please book at rsvp@gocstgeorge.com.au