The Hellenic Professional Women, Inc. [HPW] recently held their inaugural annual “Career and Employment Forum” Breakfast panel discussion event where over 85 Greek-American women professionals and college students gathered to meet and hear from a dynamic panel of experts in various fields on career advancement, and personal success stories.
The Forum brought together seven accomplished professional women who shared their knowledge, insight and personal experiences, aimed to help and inspire women of all ages to seek and reach their career goals. Presented in two panels with Q&A sessions, the discussion was moderated by Haeda Mihaltses, Director of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Intergovernmental Affairs. The first panel shared their career experiences and personal advice. They included Dr. Lorraine Chrisomalis-Valasiadis, MD, OB-GYN; Anastasia Kavalis Miano, Senior Account Manager, Clear Channel Communications; Aravella Simotas, Attorney, New York State Assemblywoman; Aspasia Zervas, PhD, Professor of Civil Engineering, Drexel University. The second panel focused on how to develop a personal/professional brand, offered resume writing tips, interview techniques and communications skills – they included Dimitra Manis, Global Head of HR, Thompson Reuters; Alexandra Nestoras, Senior Associate Director of Career Development, Barnard College; Jaqueline Peros, Certified Image Consultant, JMP Image and Style, LLC.
“We assembled an extraordinary group of successful Greek-American professional women — the entire morning was charged with energy, insights and inspiration. We all gained valuable information. It was gratifying to see the genuine offer of assistance and guidance from our panelists, and we are so grateful for their volunteer time,” said Maria Frantzis, Founder and President of HPW.
Guests included Consul General of Greece, Aghi Balta, and Consul General of Cyprus Koula Sophianou. The Forum, sponsored by Pro Metal Construction, Inc., offered mentoring, networking and internship opportunities for women in the areas of chemistry, financial services, pharmacy, medicine, and media planning/advertising. Attendees had the opportunity to introduce themselves, and briefly speak about their industry or profession to facilitate networking among participants. The next annual “Career and Employment Forum” will be held in spring 2012.
The Hellenic Professional Women Inc. (HPW) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and supporting professional opportunities for Greek-American women and students through networking, mentoring and education.
HPW was founded by insurance executive Maria Frantzis in November of 2007 and incorporated in September of 2009. She envisioned a group that would help women advance their professional goals, build personal relationships, and promote their businesses while developing vibrant mentorship and employment programs.
For more information visit HPW at www.hellenicprofessionalwomen.org.
