Professional Executives

Aristi Tzoni

Director of the Social Action Department at YMCA Thessaloniki

“It is crucial to recognize the challenges of our time, to be inspired, and to contribute to paths of mutual understanding and leveraging changes in individual and collective worldviews on issues of human respect, guided by a profound democratic belief and the humanitarian dimension of human relations and our relationship with the environment, especially when the history and founding principles of the organization you work for support this.”

Chara Argyroudi (07/2017 to 02/2018)

Head of Refugee Programs

“Working with vulnerable populations for me is not just a job but a calling. Addressing it with a stereotypical work ethic and sterile procedural approaches is futile and, in some cases, dangerous. Sensitivity and empathy are the core components of serious and honest work in supporting the children of vulnerable groups and their families who are in such great need of our help.”

Maria Vouchara (09/2018 to 12/2020 & 01-15/03/2021)

Coordinator of REACT Actions at YMCA Thessaloniki

“As the coordinator of REACT actions at YMCA Thessaloniki, I believe I have contributed to offering children many memorable moments and experiences, guiding them towards values and ideals for better coexistence among people.”

Konstandia Liouza (09/2018 to 05/2020)

Coordinator of the Preschool Educational Program for Refugee Children Aged 2 to 4 Years at the “DIA-Drasis” Child Center – YMCA Thessaloniki

“The ‘DIA-Drasis’ program was a significant intercultural experience with various challenges and remarkable outcomes. The collaboration and capability of the educational team managed to highlight good practices that contributed to the success of the program, and we hope they will be further utilized.”

Chrysanthi Panagiotidou (09/2018 to 05/2020)

Coordinator of the Intercultural Activities Program for Preschool Children Aged 2 to 6 Years at the “DIA-Drasis” Child Center – YMCA Thessaloniki

“Interaction with multiple languages and cultural groups, besides academic and professional interest, significantly broadens one’s perception of self and the world.”

Ariadni Alexiou (12/2019 to present)

Assistant at ILC – HELIOS at YMCA Thessaloniki

“My involvement with the refugee issue gave me the opportunity to connect with people from many different countries and learn about the socio-political conditions prevailing there. With empathy and an optimistic perspective, I continue my contribution to the refugee cause with unwavering dedication.”

Alicia Madehli (05/2021 to present)

Coordinator at ILC – HELIOS at YMCA Thessaloniki    

Dolores Tarrafeta

Head of Refugee Programs (10/2018 to 06/2020)

Financial Assistant at ILC (06/2019 to present)

“I have worked professionally in refugee programs for two years, but as a volunteer, I participated in many different programs for several years. Being able to dedicate myself professionally to social justice felt almost like a necessity at a certain point in my life. I find it extremely stimulating to contribute my efforts to creating a fairer society where everyone belongs.”