PRONIA hosted a successful business luncheon last Thursday, at Melbourne’s Kooyong Tennis Club, fostering connections within the Greek-Australian business community. The event brought together professionals and community leaders, encouraging relationship-building and knowledge-sharing within a supportive environment.
The Hon Emilios John Kyrou AO, Federal Court Judge of Victoria and PRONIA Patron, opened the gathering.
Reflecting on the early migration experiences of the 1950s and 60s, Judge Kyrou highlighted PRONIA’s pivotal role in supporting Greek migrants when little assistance was available.
“PRONIA has been an invaluable asset to our community,” Judge Kyrou noted. “I am very proud to support an organisation that continues to serve so effectively, with full confidence in its future.”
PRONIA CEO Sylvia Hadjiantoniou emphasised the organisation’s commitment to a strong, inclusive Greek-Australian community.
“Your presence here reflects our shared dedication to a supportive society,” said Hadjiantoniou, widely recognised for her leadership in community care and healthcare.
“Together, we’re making a meaningful impact on those in need.”
The event included two presentations focused on critical health issues. Associate Professor Arthur Nasis, a leading cardiologist, spoke on “Executive Heart Health: How to Predict, Prevent, and Manage Heart Issues,” highlighting the importance of cardiac wellness for business professionals.
PRONIA’s longstanding commitment to heart health was underscored by celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Cardiac Rehabilitation Program—the only cardiac recovery program in Australia delivered in Greek.
Dr Mathew Staios, a neuropsychologist and researcher at Monash University’s Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, discussed “How the Ageing Brain Affects Thinking.”
Dr Staios’s work has advanced neuropsychological measures adapted for Greek Australians, reducing misdiagnosis and improving diagnostic accuracy for minority communities.
Major partners, including Windsor Management Insurance Brokers and Back to Sleep, were acknowledged alongside Spotlight Partners Nimbus Health and Nurse4U. Fotini Kypraios, Chair of HACCI (Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry), praised the strong partnership between HACCI and PRONIA, emphasizing their shared mission of community collaboration.
