The Inaugural HMSA Careers Day was successfully held on Saturday the 7th September 2024 at the Greek Centre, Melbourne, a collaboration between the Hellenic Medical Society of Australia (HMSA) and the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM). There were over 30 Greek-Australian professionals, representing a number of fields including medicine, law, business, creative arts and more.
The professionals were all present to give students a broad exposure to the various careers paths that are available to them in the future. There was strong messaging throughout the day, especially from Mr Bill Papastergiadis, president of the Greek Community of Melbourne, as well as the panellists, regarding the importance of networking and connecting with their peers and professionals alike.
Prominent panellists included Dr Arthur Kokkinias (Adult Psychiatrist and secretary of the HMSA), Yianni Zaparas (managing partner of Zaparas Lawyers), Ross Savas (Managing Director of Kay and Burton Real Estate Agency), Melissa Pateras (Founder and CEO of Meleros Cosmetics) and Kathy Tsaples (author, chef, owner of Sweet Greek).
According to Dr Athina Pirpiris, who helped to organise the HMSA Careers Day ‘the event was an exemplar of the strong bond Greek-Australians of all generations continue to have with their heritage and traditions. Furthermore, it was also a timely reminder of the enormous contribution Greek-Australians have made to the Australian socioeconomic fabric, and the importance of imparting our community’s collective wisdom and insight to the Greek-Australian leaders of tomorrow.’
Following the introductory panels, there were breakout sessions focussing on students’ particular area of interest, followed by networking. The day has received positive feedback from students, parents and professionals alike, with plans to hold similar events in the future.
There was great support from the sponsors and the organisers thank them for their contributions to the event. The sponsors included: Zaparas Lawyers, Accountancy Group, the Commonwealth Bank, Oasis Coffee and Bakaliko Oakleigh.
