The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) has once again partnered with the Hellenic Ministry of Foreign Affairs to bring the Greek Summer Camp (GSC) cultural program to young adults in July 2023.
From 1 to 11 July, participants will have the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable cultural tour of Melbourne’s sister city, Thessaloniki, and other cities in Northern Greece.
According to Greek Secretary General for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy, John Chrysoulakis, the Greek Summer Program aims to strengthen the bond of young adults with their Greek heritage. He believes that these ties are as priceless as the wonderful Greek culture and language.
Through the program, participants also create networks, and develop their leadership skills. The GCM and the Hellenic Ministry of Foreign Affairs have subsidised the program to make it accessible and affordable for all.
GCM President Bill Papastergiadis added that the tour is a critical component in the development of the next generation of Greek-Australian leaders. He expressed his gratitude towards John Chrysoulakis, Ministers Dennis, and Antonis Katsaniotis for their collaboration with GCM on the initiative.
“Our future rests with the development of considered and involved young leaders. This tour is a critical component in the development of our next generation of leaders,” the GCM president said.
Dr Nick Dallas, the GCM Education Chair, emphasised the need for young Greek-Australians to engage with Greek society. He believes that the Greek Summer Camp is a perfect introductory pathway that can trigger long-term interest in all things Greek.
“Young Greek Australians need opportunities to engage with Greek society, this camp is a perfect introductory pathway which can trigger a long-term interest with all things Greek,” he said.
Dean Kotsianis, another GCM Board Member, agrees with his colleagues and looks forward to the creation of a Greek-Australian network that spans across domestic borders.
“As well as engaging with Greece like never before, our young participants will be engaging with each other like never before,” Mr Kotsianis said. “They are creating their own Greek-Australian network that span across domestic borders in ways that redefine our community. As someone who participated in our inaugural tour last year, I’m very excited to see this happen again.”
The Thessaloniki YMCA (ΧΑΝΘ) will run the 2023 Summer Camp, which will include a various organised activities. Participants can expect overnight stays in Kavala, visits to the Royal Tombs of Vergina, tours of the Waterfall at Edessa, wine tasting, cooking lessons in Greece’s Food Capital, and more. The GCM invites young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 who are passionate about Greek Culture to apply for the program. It is important to note that applicants must have a valid passport and arrange their own travel to Thessaloniki.
The subsidised program by the GCM and the Hellenic Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will require each participant to pay only $500. This one-off fee includes all ground transfers, accommodation, meals, and entry to the attractions that will be visited.
To apply to take part on the camp, fill out an Expression of Interest here.
