A special event dedicated to the memory of the founder and first president of the Public Benefit, Scientific, and Cultural Foundation Photos Photiades, was held on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, in the gardens of the Photos Photiades Breweries, celebrating the Foundation’s 30 years of commitment.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Ilona Photiadou Michailidou, President of the Foundation, spoke about the founder’s vision and the three decades of contribution to the Cypriot society and culture. She also emphasized that the Foundation will continue on focusing on culture, the environment, and education, with special emphasis on the development of our youth.
On behalf of the President of the Republic of Cyprus, the Minister of Education, Sports, and Youth, Dr. Athina Michailidou, said that the multifaceted activities of the Foundation constitute a unique chapter, which has become a treasure of Cypriot society. Referring to the excellent cooperation she underlined that the student competitions Costas Montis and Modern Greek Language, play a crucial role in the Ministry’s efforts to cultivate, and enhance the Greek language, moving towards a modern, democratic, and inclusive school.
The Honorary President of the Foundation, Professor Georgios Babiniotis, with great emotion spoke about the charismatic personality of Photos Photiades, revealing his immense sensitivity and deep love for culture and how this transformed into work and action. A “true gentleman” as he characterized him, with respect for intellectuals, scientists, and people of art and letters, led to the creation of the Foundation to serve as a continuous substantial cultural intervention in the life of Cyprus.
Almost 20 years after winning the 1st Prize at the Costas Montis Essay Writing Competition, Mr. George Charalambous revealed how his participation was the springboard for an intellectual quest that ended in a unique and profound experience.
The highlight of the evening was the performance of the winning student teams of the Pan-Cypriot Song Composition Festival “Marios Tokas – Costas Montis” 2023-2024: Agios Georgios Lyceum Larnaca – Mikis Theodorakis Music School and Pancyprian Gymnasium – Nicosia Music Gymnasium, who enchanted the attendees with their music and creativity.
The event was attended by representatives of Parliamentary Parties, Ministers, state officials, cultural institutions, media representatives, and other distinguished guests.
