Over the past 12 years, THI has raised an impressive $37 million and implemented strategic initiatives to revitalize Greece’s economy through entrepreneurship.
It is justly regarded as one of the most significant gatherings for the Greek diaspora. The Hellenic Initiative’s (THI) 12th Annual New York Gala, held on Saturday at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City, drew 800 attendees, including some of the most prominent figures from the Greek-American, Greek-Canadian, and Greek-Australian communities. Distinguished guests included Greece’s Ambassador to Washington Ekaterini Nassika; US Representatives Gus Bilirakis and Nicole Malliotakis; and Father Alexander Karloutsos, THI’s honorary advisor.
Founded in 2012 during the peak of Greece’s financial crisis, THI was created as a collective response by the global Greek diaspora and Philhellenes to provide vital support to a struggling homeland. Over the past 12 years, the organization has raised an impressive $37 million and implemented strategic initiatives to revitalize Greece’s economy through entrepreneurship. In addition to addressing the urgent humanitarian needs of vulnerable social groups, THI has continued its support well beyond Greece’s recovery, aiding victims of wildfires, floods, and other crises.
THI Board Chairman and Co-Founder Andrew N. Liveris, a Kastellorizian born in Australia and a prominent figure in the United States, eloquently captured the organization’s essence in his speech. “What began 12 years ago as an effort to stabilize a struggling nation has evolved into a mission that contributes to global peace, security, and economic resilience, positioning Greece as an indispensable player on the world stage,” Liveris remarked. He emphasized that THI’s accomplishments are a testament to the resilience of the Greek people and the power of their diaspora.
THI Board President and Co-Founder George P. Stamas echoed Liveris’ sentiments, underscoring the gala’s importance. “The New York Gala is our largest and most successful global event every year both in numbers of our stellar community here tonight and also in funds raised for the people of Greece,” he said.
The evening paid tribute to distinguished Greek-American Dean Metropoulos and his wife, Marianne. Born in a small Arcadian village, Metropoulos immigrated to Boston with his family but remained deeply connected to his roots. Now a highly successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, he accepted his award with heartfelt emotion, joined by his wife and children.
“THI plays a significant role in supporting the economy of Greece, and more importantly the initiatives and careers of young professionals that fuel Greece’s future with talent and innovation,” said Metropoulos. “THI also gives meaning and strength to the identity of our future generations and their unique cultural roots of Hellenism.”
Marianne Metropoulos, who leads the couple’s philanthropic work through the Metropoulos Family Foundation, shares her husband’s passion. She has also explored Greek history by contributing to the production of the film Cliffs of Freedom, a historical drama set during Greece’s War of Independence.
The gala audience delivered a standing ovation to two additional honorees who traveled from Greece: Paralympic swimmers Alexandra Stamatopoulou, the 2024 Paralympic gold medalist in the 50m backstroke, and Antonios Tsapatakis, the 2024 Paralympic silver medalist in the 100m breaststroke. Their inspiring stories of perseverance and relentless dedication exemplify the true spirit of champions.