Hellenic Initiative’s London Gala Raises Over $300K for Greek Causes

On September 22, the London Gala of The Hellenic Initiative (THI) donated approximately 340,000 euros ($326,000) to aid Greece's economic growth, entrepreneurship, and crisis assistance.

Nearly 400 guests celebrated the THI London Gala's tenth anniversary at London's famed Dorchester Hotel.

The Gala commemorated "ten years of uniting the global diaspora for Greece with a reception and silent auction."

Following supper, THI Board Member Nikos Stathopoulos gave a welcome. Stathopoulos, THI UK Trustee Constantine Logothetis, and THI International Ambassador Princess Tatiana served as the event's co-chairs.

Hellenic Initiative: London Gala shows support of diaspora for Greece

“The remarkable love and support of the diaspora for Greece and its people exist all over the world, from the USA to the UK to Australia to Europe,” Stathopoulos said. “The London Gala is a shining example of this.”

The event honoured two UK-based charities active in Greece.

Stathopoulos noted that it was fitting this year as the “eyes of the world were on the UK at the passing of our beloved Queen that we honour two UK-based charities, in this most philhellenic of countries.” He presented an award to the Conservation Collective, and Princess Tatiana presented a second award to the Prince’s Trust International.

The THI Gala Honoree, Conservation Collective, is a global network of seventeen local environment foundations dedicated to preserving the environment and reversing climate change. The Collective does work in the Cycladic and Ionian islands and in Greece’s Argolic Gulf.

Prince’s Trust International (PTI) is an organization founded by the Prince of Wales, now King Charles III, to address the global crisis in youth unemployment. PTI has supported thousands of Greek youth through education and employment opportunities.

After dinner, popular Greek singer Despina Vandi performed for the enthusiastic crowd. Vandi is one of Greece’s most successful and multitalented performers, with her singing and acting career transcending Greece’s borders.