The Hellenic Medical Society of Australia (HMSA) marked International Women’s Day with an event at the Botanical Hotel in Melbourne, bringing together leading Greek Australian medical professionals to celebrate Greek women in medicine.
HMSA President, Associate Professor Marinis Pirpiris, opened the evening by highlighting the “transformative role of women in healthcare”.
“Women are not just part of the medical system; they are actively redefining it,” he stated, emphasising their leadership, innovation, and the ongoing need for equity in the profession. He acknowledged Dr Athina Pirpiris for her efforts in organising the event, which he said, “fostered meaningful discussions on the contributions and challenges faced by Greek women in the field”.
A panel of Greek female medical leaders shared their journeys success including Associate Professor Vicki Kotsirilos AM, Professor Genie Pedagogos, Associate Professor Ana Chrysostomou. The panelists offered insights into overcoming gender bias, cultural expectations, and linguistic barriers in a historically male-dominated field. Their stories underscored both the progress made and the challenges that persist for women in medicine today.
“I am grateful, humbled, and honored to have spoken for the HMSA on International Women’s Day. Women are often under-recognised for their achievements, and it is incredibly noble of the HMSA to create this platform to celebrate female leaders making a difference in our community,” said Prof Vicki Kotsirilos.
She highlighted the influential role of doctors in society, emphasising the importance of respectful dialogue, patience, persistence, and courage in driving change.
The event explored the historical struggles of Greek women, from Ancient Greece to the present day. Lawyer, historian, and writer Dean Kalymniou examined the enduring impact of patriarchy on women’s social standing, education, and financial independence, drawing parallels between past societal constraints and the challenges still faced today.
The positive impact of the event has inspired the HMSA to establish it as an annual gathering, fostering mentorship, advocacy, and continued dialogue on gender equity in healthcare.
The HMSA extended its gratitude to Aspasia Dukas and Dukasa Dispensary for their generous sponsorship.
