There’s no shortage of amazing Kastollorizians in Australia, and that’s why the Kastellorizian Association of Victoria has announced its 21st recipient of their Kastellorizian of the Year award.
This time the honour was bestowed on Western Australian businessman James Constantine Manifis for his excellent work in promoting the Kastellorizian society in the state.
“His vast business interests and participation in many progressive projects within the Kastellorizian community of Western Australia were seen to be an inspiration,” the association said about Mr Manifis.
He was elected president of the Kastellorizian Association of WA in 2007 and has continued to promote the values and interests of the association ever since.
In 2012, as Centenary President, he and his committee staged a huge programme to honour the 100 year anniversary of the Association’s existence. It spanned one week and culminated in a Grand Ball for 600 guests and many leaders from the Community of Western Australia.
Finding success like many other migrants before him, Mr Manifis started from owning newsagencies, slowly growing his empire to include, three gift shops and a fashion boutique store called Megisti Fashion.
He was elected as vice chairman of the Kastellorizian Council of Australia which he helped to initiate in 2013.
Also taking out honours in the special Saint Constantine and St. Helen event last week were students Brigette Augustes and Alex McCart.
The students completed their VCE in 2013 and achieved excellent results, which sees them pursuing further study at Monash University now.
They received the VCE Recognition Award that includes a bursary to assist them with their studies and a selection of historical books about Kastellorizian heritage.
Helping with the awards were Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, Christina Simantirakis, and the State Member for Albert Park, Martin Foley.
The Kastellorizians have a long history of settlement in Victoria and plan to celebrate their 90th Anniversary in 2015.
