The National Herald and The Hellenic Initiative have begun a partnership to introduce the NEXTGEN of Greek/Cypriot ‘movers and shakers’ to the rest of our Community around the world. Established to inform its readers about all things related to our homeland and its respective communities throughout the world, TNH is now providing THI’s New Leaders (40-years-old and younger), with a new platform to showcase their ideas and to engage their communities in a deeper, more meaningful way while simultaneously building a bridge to Greece and Cyprus. Our next featured New Leader is Marissa Eliades. Get to know her below!
Last Name, First Name
- Eliades, Marissa
Alma mater?
- University of Michigan (BA), University of Miami (JD)
What city do you live in?
- Brooklyn, NY
Where in Greece are you from?
- Chios, Karpenisi, and Ioannina
Occupation?
- Senior Privacy Counsel
What motivated you to get involved with THI?
- To connect with my heritage, give back to important causes in Greece, and grow my Greek network in NY.
What do you hope to achieve through THI?
- I hope to make a significant impact on the Greek community by supporting important causes.
Favorite activity to take part in where you live?
- Staying active (pilates and dancing), cooking, reading, traveling, and trying new restaurants.
Favorite place to take your non-Greek friends when they visit you in Greece?
- Paros and Antiparos
Go-to Greek dish/drink when you’re missing the homeland?
- Pastisio
Favorite Greek product you can find outside of Greece?
- Dodoni Feta
Top three people of Greek/Cypriot descent you admire?
- Tina Fey
- Giannis Antetokounmpo
- Arianna Huffington
In addition to THI, how are you involved in/help the Greek/Cypriot community?
- Hellenic Professional Women.
What is the biggest crisis Greece/Cyprus faces today?
- Economic instability.
One piece of advice an elder has given you that has proved invaluable?
- Treat others how you want to be treated.
Favorite quote from a Greek philosopher?
- What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.” – Pericles
One Greek/Cypriot tradition you’ll never stop keeping?
- Cooking for Greek Easter.
How has your Hellenic background helped shape who you are today?
- My hellenic background has shaped me to connect with my faith, prioritize my family, and enjoy the simple things in life.
Life Motto?
- Don’t worry, be happy.
