The Hellenic Initiative (THI) successfully held its second Annual Charity Gala in Monaco, raising over 124,000 euros to support its Summer Youth Academy. The event, which took place at the Stelios Haji-Ioannou Charitable Foundation, was hosted by Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, founder of easyGroup and THI Board Member.

The gala was graced by numerous notable figures, including Greek basketball legend Nikos Galis, who delivered a compelling speech on the unifying power of sports and its role in promoting social integration and empowerment among youth. Galis, the only Greek basketball player inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, emphasized the importance of teaching ethical values and breaking down social and cultural barriers through sports.

The funds raised will support the THI Summer Youth Academy, a free basketball camp for children aged 14-18 from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The camp, hosted at Leonteios School of Athens from July 1 to 26, is a collaboration between THI and Eurohoops. It aims to provide a unique experience combining basketball training with activities designed to develop both on-court and off-court skills. The camp has registered 200 participants, double the initial target, with spots allocated based on social and economic criteria to support the most vulnerable families.

George P. Stamas, Chairman of the Board of The Hellenic Initiative, expressed pride and excitement for the initiative, thanking attendees and Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou for his hospitality. “Drawing inspiration from the hero of our youthful years, Nikos Galis, we continue our work emphasizing cooperation, youth empowerment, and community service,” Stamas said.

Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou remarked on the success of the evening and the importance of supporting youth through educational and training programs. “Thanks from the bottom of my heart to all those who joined us today and supported another important initiative of ours,” he said. “Our goal remains the strengthening and empowerment of young people.”

Discover more on the Stelios Foundation website here.

Featured image (from left to right): Goerge Stamas, Nikos Galis, Stelios Haji-Ioannou, Michael Printzos