The Cyprus Diaspora Forum, founded by Paul Lambis, took place at the Parklane Resort and Spa in Limassol, Cyprus, March 6-9. The four-day B2B event brought together Cypriot diaspora communities, prominent figures from Cyprus’ public and private sectors, media, academia, and civic society with the goal of recognizing and promoting the importance of Cyprus’ diaspora while strengthening relations through entrepreneurship, innovation, philanthropy, cultural and social engagement.
In addition to prominent business professionals and talented Cypriots of the Diaspora who attended the event, the Cyprus Diaspora Forum has attracted a high level of interest from HNWI and foreign investors interested in the island’s growth sectors and its unique investment opportunities.
The event started with an exclusive Breakfast Networking Event, attended by the Limassol Mayor, Mr Nicos Nicolaides. Mr Nicolaides outlined the importance of the Diaspora in forging connections and joining forces to support Cyprus through politics, business and culture. The Breakfast Networking Event was addressed by prominent individuals such as John Christodoulou, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Marios Tanousis, President of Invest Cyprus, Angelos Gregoriou, CEO and co-founder of Dynamic Works, Thanasis Tsokkos, General Manager of RIK and many others. They all mentioned the importance of the Diaspora and gave valuable insights into the way forward for Cyprus and its global brand. n his welcoming address at the opening ceremony, attended by the American Ambassador and the Australian High Commissioner, Paul Lambis, founder of the Cyprus Diaspora Forum, stated that Cyprus has evolved into a dynamic business hub offering numerous investment and employment opportunities for both locals and foreigners.
The following 4 days included panels on interesting topics such as hospitality and tourism, entrepreneurship, the future of business, media and culture and many more. Entrepreneurs, policy-makers, stakeholders and the business world from Cyprus and abroad, shared valuable insights on their respective topics, generating lively dialogue and excellent thought leadership.
The event concluded with an impressive gala dinner attended by more than 350 people, with a rich entertainment programme, referencing the Cyprus traditions and notable local artists who are making waves in Europe. The gala also included the 1st CYDIA Awards, given to individuals who have made their mark on the global stage. The Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Mrs Tasoula Hadjitofi, “The Icon Hunter,” who is renowned worldwide for her work combatting art trafficking. In 1997, she coordinated “The Munich Case,” one of the largest art trafficking sting operations in European history since WWII. More than 5000 artifacts were found hidden in the double ceilings and hollow floors of the Munich apartments of Aydin Dikmen, a Turkish dealer known as “The Archaeologist.” Tasoula’s work as a campaigner to protect the world’s cultural heritage spans over 30 years.
The Forum left the best impressions to all attendees and was extensively covered in local and global press. The Founders of the Forum are already making plans for its second year, promising an even bigger event in 2025.
