Thursday, 28 November 2024
On Monday, November 25th, PRONIA celebrated its 52nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) at its Brunswick offices. The event brought together members, board representatives, supporters, and PRONIA’s esteemed patron, the Hon. Justice Emilios Kyrou AO.
President Elpis Korosidis opened the AGM by highlighting PRONIA’s significant achievements over the past year. Ms. Korosidis shared the following key outcomes from 2023-2024:
- 3,000 hours of casework providing emergency relief and essential support.
- 15,000 hours of volunteer services supporting isolated elderly individuals.
- 79,000 hours of activity-based programs for four planned groups.
- 85,000 hours of in-home care for older community members.
Ms. Korosidis expressed deep gratitude to those who contributed to PRONIA’s success, acknowledging:
- The Greek media, whose coverage amplified PRONIA’s work.
- Generous donors and sponsors, who support the organisation.
- Dedicated board members, for their governance overnight.
- Tireless staff and volunteers, who brought compassion and excellence in delivering services.
This year’s AGM marked a leadership change, with outgoing CEO Tina Douvos-Stathopoulos concluding her 34-year tenure at PRONIA in April 2024. President Korosidis thanked Ms. Douvos-Stathopoulos for her contributions. The chair welcomed the newly appointed CEO, Sylvia Hadjiantoniou, a seasoned C-Suite Executive with extensive experience in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Ms. Hadjiantoniou shared her aspirations for PRONIA: “I am honored to lead an organization with such a profound legacy. In my first months, I have already seen the passion and resilience of our team and volunteers. Together, we will establish our strategic vision for 2025, focusing on inclusivity, innovation, and sustainable growth.”
PRONIA awarded Volunteer of the Year to Ms. Dionysia Politis for nearly 30 years of selfless service. Ms. Politis’s dedication, loyalty and consistent support have been foundational in the success of the volunteer team and have built a deep connection with the community she serves.
The AGM also recognized departing board members Voula Mesimeri AM and Liana Laios for their contributions. Voula Mesimeri, a former CEO who led PRONIA from 1989 to 2016, was acknowledged for her longstanding leadership and commitment to the organisation. New board members Julie Christopoulos and Sophie Sidiropoulos were welcomed, bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to PRONIA’s board.
Reflecting on his personal migration journey, the Hon. Justice Emilios Kyrou AO praised PRONIA’s enduring impact: “If PRONIA existed earlier it would have made a significant difference to early migrants, like my parents” he said. “I am proud to be the patron of an organisation that continues to support the Greek-Australian community with such dedication and innovation.”
As PRONIA embarks on its next chapter, the organization remains committed to empowering and supporting the Greek-Australian community through its extensive services.
For further information about PRONIA’s AGM and to access the full Annual Report, visit www.pronia.com.au.
