Hellenic and Cypriot Organisations unite to create history at first combined International Women’s Day Celebration

… and Official State Launch of the Pan-Hellenic Women’s Federation of Australia Inc.

The Pan-Hellenic Women’s Federation of Australia, in collaboration with 17 Hellenic and Cypriot organisations, will proudly host its first combined International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration on Sunday, 8 March 2026—a landmark occasion that will create history for Hellenic and Cypriot women in Australia.

This significant event will also mark the official State-level launch of the Pan-Hellenic Women’s Federation of Australia Inc. in Victoria, representing a major milestone in women’s leadership, advocacy, and unity across the Hellenic and Cypriot communities.

The celebration brings together women, families, and community leaders to honour the achievements, leadership, resilience, and cultural contributions of women, while strengthening collaboration across community organisations.

Founder of the Pan-Hellenic Women’s Federation of Australia, Georgina Papafotiou, said the event represents both recognition and momentum:

“This event is both a celebration and a beginning. Bringing together, for the first time, 18 Hellenic and Cypriot organisations to mark International Women’s Day—while officially launching the Federation at a State level—sends a powerful message of unity, collaboration, and shared purpose. We are creating history. This moment recognises the strength of women across our communities and our commitment to supporting and amplifying their voices.”

Following the event, an official Board will be appointed to represent Victoria, laying the foundation for strong governance, advocacy, and strategic growth.

Looking ahead, the Federation holds a bold national vision.

“Our hope is that within 3-4 years, this initiative will grow into a nationwide Federation, with conferences hosted in different states—uniting Hellenic and Cypriot women across Australia and strengthening our collective voice,” Ms Papafotiou said.

The event will be held at the Cyprus Community of Melbourne and Victoria, located at 495 Lygon Street, East Brunswick. Doors open at 1:30pm, with an engaging afternoon program featuring keynote addresses, performances, and entertainment.

Keynote Speakers

The celebration will feature two distinguished keynote speakers:

Liana Papoutsis – A Melbourne-based ACA-registered counsellor, lecturer, and speaker specialising in family violence, coercive control, and trauma recovery. Drawing on professional expertise and lived experience, she brings clarity, compassion, and credibility to conversations around safety, resilience, and rebuilding after harm.
Vicky Papazoglou – A committee member of the Heliades Women’s Network, is presenting on Franca Viola, the Italian activist whose courageous refusal in 1965 to marry her rapist led to landmark legal change, challenging laws that once excused rape through forced marriage.

Guests will enjoy performances and entertainment throughout the afternoon, celebrating the strength, creativity, and rich cultural heritage of the Hellenic and Cypriot communities.

This combined International Women’s Day celebration and official launch underscores a shared commitment to empowerment, collaboration, and the advancement of women—while building lasting connections across generations and organisations.