“We are thrilled to host such networking opportunities for women of all ages, which can certainly help further their careers and goals in life. In turn, we are truly inspired by the caliber of our Greek-American women who overcome daily challenges to realize their dreams,” said Maria Frantzis, founder and president of HPW.

Guest speaker and entrepreneur Elle Sakellis shared her insights and expertise on the challenges of starting and growing your own business. After graduating from Columbia University and spending 10 years working in finance, she shared her story of her major shock after 9/11 and the loss of many of her friends who worked with her. As a result, she left New York and spent four months in Greece trying to recover. She began making jewelry as a creative and emotional outlet. When she returned to New York, she launched Otrera in 2004, which quickly grew into a very successful private label jewelry company. Inspired to expand her collections, she designed the now iconic Evil Eye Scarf, referred to as the “#1 Celebrity Must Have” and continues to design prints around good luck charms from around the world. Some of her clients include Victoria’s Secret, Boston Proper, Spiegel catalog.

Hellenic Professional Women Inc. is a not-for-profit organization whose purpose is to provide networking, educational, business and career opportunities, and mentorship programs to its members. HPW programs include regular meetings with guest speakers in all areas of expertise, professional development workshops, and career and job readiness programs. For more information about HPW, membership, and other events, visit www.hellenicprofessionalwomen.org