The 6th Annual Hellenic Initiative Annual Gala -2018

By: Gloria Smith, Associate Editor for World Liberty TV

The Hellenic Initiative’s 6th Annual Gala on Sept. 21

Supports Entrepreneurial Programs in Greece

Event Honors Paul Polman, CEO of Unilever and THI’s Regeneration Program Partner and Philanthropist Corinne Mentzelopoulos, Owner of Château Margaux.

Andrew N.Liveris Chair of Gala with his wife

The Hellenic Initiative (THI), which leads the Greek diaspora community internationally in raising awareness and capital for Greece, is hosting its 6th Annual Gala to raise funds that will be invested in entrepreneurial programs in Greece.

Dr.Abbey with Honore Paul Polman CEO of Unilever

The gala also will support Greek NGOs that foster economic development opportunities and provide crisis relief for underserved communities in Greece, particularly children. Last year’s gala raised more than $2 million.

Dr.Abbey with John S.Calamos CEO Calamos Investments

The Hellenic Initiative’s 6th Annual Gala 2018, Honorees were: Paul Polman, CEO of Unilever and THI’s Regeneration program partner.

Dr.Abbey with Vasiliki Petrou Senior VP Unilever Prestige

THI’s ReGeneration program was launched in 2014 to train, mentor, and place highly qualified millennials in internships at top Greek and multinational companies. More than 320 internships have been created at more than 100 companies.

L-R Dr.Abbey with Andrew Gounardes State Senate Candidate & Mr Naji

Recognized as the top internship program in Greece, more than 80 percent of participants secure a contract extension or hire.

Corinne Mentzelopoulos, philanthropist, owner, and CEO of Château Margaux.

Dr.Abbey with Consulate General of Cyprus Alexis Phedonos Vadet

Attendees included: Greek-American and Greek economy and investment experts and entrepreneurs John Koudounis, CEO, Calamos Investments and THI Chairman Andrew N. Liveris, former chairman and CEO of The Dow Chemical Company.

Many Greek Guests in attendance

Hellenic Entrepreneurship Award winner Evangelos Pappas, Founder/Inventor, RT Safe medical technology company Celebrity and social guests expected to attend include Princess Tatiana of Greece.

L-R Nicholas M.Logothetis Vice Chair Libra Group with his brother

Serving as emcee will be Chris Diamantopoulos, actor HBO’s “Silicon Valley,” Amazon’s “The Dangerous Book for Boys,” and Disney’s voice of Mickey Mouse.

Over one thousand people were in attendance at the THI Gala 2018.National Anthems of Greece and USA were by, The Jimmy Vali Band., Invocation was by Alexander Karloutsos, and live auction by Kevin Doyle AVP Sotheby’s.

Over 1000 people in attendance

About THI: Founded in 2012, THI is a global, nonprofit, secular institution mobilizing the Greek diaspora and Philhellene community to support sustainable economic recovery and renewal for the Greek people. THI’s programs address crisis relief through strong nonprofit organizations. THI also builds entrepreneurial skills in a new generation of business leaders.