Joanna Makrylos, 22, has turned her lifelong involvement with the Hellenic Athletic Club into a coaching role, helping develop young soccer players while working as a car care consultant.
Three Greek-Australian women are among 40 finalists named in the 2026 NT News Woman of the Year awards, with organizers highlighting their leadership, resilience and contributions to the Northern Territory community, The Greek Herald reported.
Joanna Makrylos, Gella Catis and Kalotina Alexiou have each been recognized for their achievements across sport, business and community engagement, standing out in a field that drew more than 300 nominations from Darwin, Arnhem Land and Central Australia.
Makrylos, 22, has turned her lifelong involvement with the Hellenic Athletic Club into a coaching role, helping develop young soccer players while working as a car care consultant. Known for her hands-on commitment, she also secured funding through the Toyota Good for Footy grant to provide equipment and uniforms for her team, earning a reputation as a dedicated and motivating leader.
Catis, owner of Stomp Shoes since 2012, has built her Darwin CBD business into more than a retail space, creating a hub for creativity and connection. In addition to running a Greek dancing school, she is widely recognized for mentoring others and fostering a sense of community through her work.
Alexiou, who entered the civil construction industry after overcoming personal hardship, has since expanded into hospitality, launching Holtz Café and Greek Takeaway in 2023. Now managing two successful businesses, she is regarded as an example of perseverance and entrepreneurial drive.
The NT News Woman of the Year awards, now in their third year and presented by Charles Darwin University, feature 10 categories in 2026, including the newly added Health Heroes category. The program celebrates women making an impact across sectors such as sport, retail, tourism and hospitality, with this year’s finalists reflecting a broad spectrum of accomplishments across the region.