Young adults of Greek descent gathered in New York City earlier this month for the National Hellenic Student Association (NHSA) of North America’s 2021 biannual convention which included panel discussions, networking and socializing.
The conference marked NHSA’s first in-person event in almost two years. The organization has hosted 25 weekend conventions over the years throughout North America with the goal to cultivate future leaders in the Greek community.
This year’s conference participants included Dimitris Papageorgiou, consul of Greece in New York; Maria Loi, a New York-based chef and ambassador of Greek cuisine; Johnny Livanos, restaurateur and founder of Stray Dog Wild Gin; Alexandros Kechagiadakis, U.S. brand ambassador of Skinos Mastiha Spirit; Fr. Evagoras Constantinides, spokesman for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and Eraklis Diamantaris, editor and publisher of the Greek-language Ethnikos Kirikas and co-editor and publisher of English-language National Herald.
Panelists highlighted the need to spread awareness about Hellenism and Greek issues and to unite the community and motivate young adults to take action on societal problems.
“Your generation is at a turning point. You have the capacity to do more,” Papageorgiou said. “Every step forward is another step for Greece — another step for Hellenism.”
“We must not accept complacency,” Evagoras said while discussing the Greek community’s potential. “Reach out to others, go to events, build your network and your brand. Always expand in all ways.”
Livanos and Kechagiadakis discussed how they passions led them to the wine and spirits industry and the flavors and aromas that make Greek liquor unique.
Brooklyn native and LGBTQ+ comedian Gus Constantellis offered a brief stand-up performance which covered a range topics including stereotypical “Greek mom” tendencies, immigrant barriers and personal stories.
After the panels, the NHSA and Chicago-based Ariston Foundation awarded three $1,000 scholarships to students demonstrating academic excellence, leadership and service. The recipients were Katerina Dorian, Anna Pierratos and Mia Vardouniotis.
“Our initiative and collaboration with NHSA is a testament to the ability of young professionals and college students to highlight the importance of academic excellence, honoring and motivating our peers with this recognition,” Ariston Foundation President Vasiliki Mitrakos said.
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