The official launch of Women in Philanthropia, hosted by The Hellenic Initiative (THI) Australia, brought together influential women leaders from Australia’s Greek diaspora and philhellenes on last Friday.
Freda Miriklis, the Chair of the Women in Philanthropia Taskforce and a Board member of THI Australia, highlighted the significance of mobilising women within the global diaspora, drawing attention to many successful projects and organisations in Greece are spearheaded by women.
“Women leaders are taking charge and driving progress,” Ms Miriklis said.
“Identifying problems and actively working towards solutions requires a special kind of person. They may have the vision, but often lack the necessary funds to make a difference. That’s where we can help. We can contribute more resources and together weave a better future and a stronger fabric for the Greek community.”
Ms Miriklis went on to announce the establishment of the THI Australia Women in Philanthropia (Victoria) fund, which aims to gather donations to support grassroots projects. The fund has garnered support from influential women, including Mrs Paula Liveris, who has assumed the role of the group’s inaugural Ambassador. Mrs Liveris possesses extensive experience in rallying support and collaborating with charities worldwide. She is accompanied by her husband, Andrew Liveris, chairman of The Hellenic Initiative.
Women in Philanthropia, formed by a dedicated taskforce of accomplished women leaders based in Melbourne, aims to collaborate with THI Australia to identify appropriate charitable endeavours that address the needs of women, young people, and vulnerable communities in Greece. The efforts focus on overcoming ongoing challenges in areas such as education, healthcare, social services, and employment.
Through partnerships with corporations and charitable organisations, THI Australia has assisted the lives of those living below the poverty line, isolated elderly individuals, and the homeless in Greece.
“The Hellenic Initiative showcases the power of individual Greeks coming together and the shared connections that bind them to Greece. Women in Philanthropia aims to create a lasting legacy for our children, demonstrating what it truly means to be a global citizen,” Ms Miriklis concluded.
Their initiatives include supporting over 2,400 at-risk individuals in Attica annually, implementing a program that enables more than 43,000 school children from over 400 schools to engage in volunteerism and become active citizens, and delivering essential health and psychosocial programs to over 7,000 vulnerable community members in Athens.
THI Australia’s Internship Program offers young Greek graduates the opportunity to gain professional experience by spending six months with host organisations in Australia.
To date, more than 25 graduates have completed the program.
Australians traveling in Greece have the chance to contribute to relief efforts on the ground by working with THI Australia’s charity partners.
More information via shoutforgood.com/fundraisers/womeninphilanthropiathiaustralia
