Tell us a few words about your career, and your involvement in charitable organizations...

My studies were in Economics and Management at Oxford University, followed by a Risk Management Masters Degree at LSE. I went on to work at EFG Asset Management in London for eight years and in parallel became involved in charitable events, such as the Love Rocks Ball which aimed to make philanthropy fun and target a younger audience. When I decided to come back to Greece and work for the Museum of Cycladic Art it was a natural progression to establish the Young Patrons Program of the museum together with a committee of friends. Young Patrons is a members’ program which cultivates interest in archaeology, art, and Greek contemporary culture and which promotes positive change through funding the Museum’s community programs. The Program now consists of 430 members between the ages of 25 and 45.

And your latest projects?

I am currently involved in two new projects which truly embrace my beliefs and what I stand for. The first, Common Seas / Clean Blue Greece is a Non-Profit Organization that aims to find ways which drastically reduce the amount of plastic in our seas. Sustainability is a one-way road and I am proud to be part of a forward-thinking, research-based initiative, and making a contribution to such an important systemic change. The second project is a new venture intending to promote Greek archaeology, art, design and craftsmanship abroad.

Looking back, I feel that my career has taken various turns and directions, but all projects have somehow been relevant to each other. There is a beautiful connection between sustainability and art and culture, and my goal is to keep building bridges between the two.

Talk to us about your role in promoting Greek culture...

Artists and designers often look to historical events and cultures as inspiration. Anything from a piece of jewellery to a traditional weaving technique can spark a new idea. When exposed to the wealth of Greek history and tradition through the Museum of Cycladic Art I saw an opportunity to connect the local ecosystem to the international scene. I am captivated by our country’s vast history, so anything I can do to promote it gives me immense satisfaction. This project is still in its early stages but we are hoping to establish many promising connections and outcomes in the near future.

What does art and archaeology mean to you?

Art, archaeology (and anthropology) are at the core of my world. They form the force that connects us to the past, helps us move forward, and are a tool to create change. Each generation builds upon the culture of the one before and that is how mankind has evolved. Art is a reflection of culture.

Regarding sustainability, would you say that young Greeks are environmentally conscious?

Yes, I do think that young Greeks have become much more sensitive towards our environment but sustainability requires collective as well as individual initiatives. I would say that, so far, the biggest obstacles to progress in the country have been due to outdated legislation and poor implementation by the authorities, but thankfully with the current government things are now improving and moving in the right direction.

As a super-active woman, how did you cope with the social distancing brought about by COVID-19, and what did these times teach you?

The pandemic has been an emotional roller coaster but it has enabled us all to take a step back and review our lives. Personally, I took the time to question certain circumstances and relationships and, of course, to appreciate my home! The pandemic has taught me how adaptable and resourceful we humans can be and that it is imperative to maintain a balance between personal and professional life, focus on the present and prioritise mental and physical wellbeing.

Could you share a piece of advice?

Having travelled and explored so many places, and having taken advantage of so many opportunities, my one piece of advice is to trust your gut feeling. Do not suppress your intuition. Where your instinct takes you is usually the right place to be.