His next big project wasn’t a company, a transaction or a legal case. It was his city. Charalambos Prountzos shares why he chose to take his experience beyond the boardroom and put it to work for the future of Nicosia.

Charalambos Prountzos, born in Nicosia in 1978, hails from the occupied villages of Gerolakkos and Akanthou. He holds an LLB (Hons) from the University of Bristol (2001) and is a Barrister-at-Law from the Inns of Court School of Law, London, with a Diploma in Professional Legal Skills from City University. A licensed insolvency practitioner and lawyer, he is the Managing Partner of Prountzos & Prountzos LLC, which he founded in 2010. He has significant experience in regulated markets, competition law, mergers, acquisitions, and energy projects. Charalambos led legal services for a Big4 firm in the CEE, SEE, and Central Asia region from 2019 to 2023. He has served as Chairman of the Council at the Open University of Cyprus and on the Board of CYENS, a research center. He was also involved in the Cyprus reunification talks. Charalambos is married to journalist Gogo Alexandrinou, and they have two children.

He spent years helping businesses around the world navigate the future of technology. Now, he is helping Cyprus build its own. Demetris Skourides shares how a global career in cloud, AI and digital transformation became a mission to turn Cyprus into a place where innovation can thrive.

Demetris Skourides is the Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation, and Technology of the Republic of Cyprus and Chairman of the National AI Taskforce. He holds a BSc in Computer Science from Arizona State University and an MBA from Henley Management College. Additionally, he has been trained in digital transformation, AI, data monetization, and sales through programs at Columbia, Stanford, MIT, and Harvard. With a career spanning Oracle and Amazon Web Services, he has held executive roles across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific. At Oracle, where he worked since 2006, he played a key role in driving cloud and ISV solutions transformation. He later joined AWS as Industry Strategist for EMEA, focusing on financial services, retail, manufacturing, and energy. Demetris Skourides spearheaded the establishment of Cloud Partner Centres of Excellence in Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, South Korea, Kenya, and South Africa, enabling innovation and new revenue streams. He also chairs the Board of Directors of the Research and Innovation Foundation (ex officio).

Sometimes the next chapter of your career isn’t about building another business—it’s about helping thousands of others build theirs. Theodoros Loukaidis shares his journey from multinational corporations to the heart of Cyprus’ research and innovation ecosystem.

Theodoros Loukaidis is the Director General of the Cyprus Research & Innovation Foundation (RIF). Prior to joining RIF in May 2020, Theodoros held strategy and business development roles within large multi-national corporations, including CK Hutchison Holdings Limited and Colt Technology Services Group Limited, a Fidelity Investments Company. He holds an MBA from Warwick Business School, UK, an MSc degree in Communications and Signal Processing from Imperial College, London and a BEng (Hons), First Class, in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from UMIST, UK

He left Cyprus to learn from some of the world’s biggest brands. Then he came back to transform one of his own. Michalis Antoniades shares how global experience, new ideas and respect for legacy are shaping the next generation of a family business.

Michalis Antoniades is the CEO of Voici La Mode Group of Companies and Co-CEO of RetailCura, a position he has held since summer 2026.  At VLM Group, he leads one of the region’s leading retail, hospitality and real estate groups, with more than 60 years of presence in Cyprus, representing brands such as M&S, Sfera, Celio, Café La Mode, Accessorize, Mamas & Papas, Monsoon, Etam and Undiz. As Co-CEO of RetailCura, he is also responsible for driving the Marks & Spencer business across Cyprus and Romania, leading the strategic direction and growth of the brand in the region. He has an in-depth understanding of omnichannel fashion and food retailing, having previously worked in the UK at Amazon in stock management and buying roles and at Marks & Spencer in retail management. He also completed consulting projects for Selfridges and PayPal while completing his MBA at London Business School (2014). He holds an undergraduate degree from the London School of Economics (2009).

Sometimes the best business ideas begin when you stop analysing the opportunity and decide to create it. George Pitsillides shares his journey from finance and consulting to co-founding Velostays and building a new-generation hospitality business.

George Pitsillides is the Co-Founder and Director of Velostays Ltd, a modern hospitality management company reshaping how short-term rentals are positioned and operated in Cyprus. With a focus on thoughtful property presentation, revenue strategy and seamless guest experiences, he has helped develop Velostays into a growing brand serving both property owners and travellers. His approach is grounded in a Master’s degree in Finance and Investment with Distinction from Durham University, alongside two years of consulting experience at IMR, bringing together commercial insight, analytical thinking and a genuine understanding of the market.

Behind many successful founders is someone who helped them believe their idea could become a business. Celia Hadjichristodoulou reflects on a journey dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs with the knowledge, funding and connections they need to move forward.

Celia is the Founder and Managing Director of GrantXpert Consulting, a leading EU funding consulting and training company, with a strong track record in supporting startups to develop, innovate and grow. Since 2000, GrantXpert has a pivotal role in organising the “Microsoft for Startups Cyprus” programme, in collaboration with the European University Cyprus and Microsoft – an initiative designed to support start-up founders in developing their business idea, through training, networking and mentoring activities. Since 2009, GrantXpert has trained more than 10,000 participants in entrepreneurship and start-up development, leadership and employability skills, business plan development and enhancement of soft and digital skills. The team also provides practical support, helping start-ups in reaching out to investors, accessing national and EU funds and receiving expert training and mentoring services.

Sometimes you don’t need decades of experience to spot an opportunity—you need the courage to act on it. At just 24, Nicolas Economides turned his hospitality experience into a business of his own, proving that entrepreneurship has no minimum age.

Nicolas Economides is the Founder and Director of Velostays, a short‑term rental management company based in Cyprus. Having studied International Business and Marketing in Florida and worked in the hospitality industry in Pafos, he developed a strong passion for guest experience and modern property management. At just 24, Nicolas launched Velostays to help property owners unlock stress‑free, high‑performing rental income through professional hosting, transparent operations, and a focus on long‑term asset care.

The final whistle may end the game, but not the journey. Panagiotis Trisokkas shares how two decades of professional basketball shaped the discipline, resilience and leadership that continue to define his life far beyond the court.

Panagiotis Trisokkas was born on August 29, 1980, and hails from Liopetri and the occupied village of Patriki in Famagusta. He is a graduate of Frederick University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and holds a Master’s degree in the same field from Kingston University in the United Kingdom. He worked for ten years as a banking officer at Eurobank Cyprus Ltd and is the President of the National Betting Authority since October 2024. He was a professional basketball player for two decades, competing with leading Cypriot and Greek teams and serving as captain of the Cyprus National Basketball Team. He has earned numerous titles and distinctions and has also served as President of sports associations such as PASK and EEAK. He also served as a Board Member of the Cyprus Olympic Committee (COC) and the Cyprus Sports Organisation (CSO). He is a certified basketball coach, having served as Head of the Basketball Academies of Enosis Neon Paralimni, and a member of the Cyprus Basketball Coaches Association. At the same time, he maintains active social, charitable, and volunteer involvement, firmly believing that sports are an integral part of culture.

She has seen more than 3,000 startup pitches—but what makes one truly stand out? Dora Trachana shares what she has learned from eight years of backing founders, spotting potential and helping bold ideas grow into successful businesses.

Dora Trachana is a Partner at Uni.Fund VC with over a decade of experience in incubation, acceleration, and corporate innovation programs. She has built strong partnerships with European incubators and an extensive global start-up network. At Uni.Fund, she leads deal flow and startup evaluation, having reviewed 3,000+ EU-based startups and executed 60+ transactions over the past eight years. Dora provides strategic support to portfolio companies, driving business growth and operational excellence. She holds a BSc in Management Science and Technology and an MSc in Information Systems from the Athens University of Economics and Business, both awarded with scholarships.

True champions aren’t defined by the medals they win, but by the moments they refuse to give up. Stylianos Malakopoulos shares the personal journey that transformed adversity into purpose, and challenges into opportunities.

Stylianos Malakopoulos is a Paralympian, member of the Hellenic National Para Triathlon Team, and one of Greece’s most distinguished para athletes. He has represented Greece at the Paralympic Games, World and European Championships, earning international medals and setting world records. Recognised in Forbes 30 Under 30 Greece 2024, he is widely known for turning adversity into achievement. Through his keynote speeches, he inspires individuals and organisations to embrace resilience, inclusion and high performance, empowering them to transform challenges into opportunities and achieve lasting impact.

The strongest organisations aren’t the ones that resist change—they’re the ones that lead it. George Pantelides shares why transformation, innovation and bold leadership have become the defining competitive advantages for businesses in a rapidly changing world.

George A. Pantelides is the Lead Partner at Deloitte Cyprus and holds the position of Head of Deloitte’s Advisory Services Team, specifically the Strategy, Risk and Transactions Advisory Services & Technology and Transformation Services. He is also a member of the corresponding Leadership Team of Deloitte Middle East. Additionally, he holds the position of Chief Strategy Officer. At OEB, he has been President since 8 May 2025, having previously served as Deputy President and member of the Executive Committee and the Board of Directors since 2016. Mr. Pantelides has over 20 years of experience in providing advisory services to local and international organisations operating in various sectors of the economy, such as the Financial sector, Hospitality & Catering sector, Consumer Products sector, Health sector, Energy sector, Technology sector, and many other sectors. Mr. Pantelides has played a pivotal role in executing notable local and international transactions, contributing to the formulation of their growth strategy, aiding in the successful completion of projects, and managing change, thus achieving maximum value for all parties involved. Additionally, he has contributed to the successful implementation of mergers and acquisitions of large organisations at both local and international levels. Throughout his career, he has spearheaded the development of organisational transformation initiatives, implementing innovative solutions that have contributed to their evolution and strengthening their position in both the local and international competitive environment. In this context, he has contributed to the formulation of organisational business strategies and the transformation of their organisational and operational models to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of businesses, as well as their ability to successfully manage their challenges and ensure sustainable growth. Furthermore, Mr. Pantelides has contributed to the development and implementation of innovative initiatives that have a proven positive impact on resource management, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of organisations. He has also played a significant role in the implementation of technology and digitisation solutions aimed at enhancing automation and modernisation of businesses, thereby achieving higher levels of productivity and competitiveness. Finally, both through his position and his active involvement in the business community of Cyprus, he has significantly contributed to important reforms in Cyprus.

In the future of work, your personal brand can become your greatest asset. Margarita Orlova shares how authentic storytelling and digital creativity can turn influence into opportunity.

Margarita Orlova is a Cyprus-based content creator, influencer, and digital marketing professional whose career spans fashion, social media, and digital content creation. With a background in fashion marketing and experience working with Dior in Spain, she later transitioned into social media management and content creation, working with Digital Tree. For the past three years, she has focused full-time on content creation, building a community of over 58,000 followers across TikTok and Instagram through authentic storytelling around life, food, travel, experiences, and businesses in Cyprus, while collaborating with leading local and international brands.

The next generation isn’t changing what people search for—it’s changing where they search. Andy Gee shares how AI is redefining visibility, growth and the future of digital marketing.

Andy Gee is the Co-founder of Onlyseo, where he has helped generate over €15 million in revenue for his clients. Through a Search Everywhere Optimisation approach, he helps businesses get found for the products and services they offer, whether on Google, ChatGPT, or anywhere else. He also helps business owners generate more leads and revenue through personalized AI outreach campaigns, physical marketing packages, and other creative growth hacking strategies.

Some journeys take you around the world—but never away from where you belong. Phanos Theophanous reflects on a career spanning global finance, sharing how ambition, purpose and staying true to your roots can create impact far beyond borders.

Phanos Theophanous is a managing director at Barclays Private Bank and has a practice that is inherently international, focusing on globally minded UHNW and family office clients in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. He has been named Private Banker/Investment Manager of the Year by the Citywealth Magic Circle Awards, recognised as Leading Individual (Banker) by the WealthBriefing European Awards, and has been consistently featured in the Spears 500 of leading Ultra High Net Worth Wealth Managers since 2017. In 2025, his commitment to society beyond the financial sector was acknowledged with the CYDIA Contribution to Society Award at Cyprus Diaspora Forum, recognising his outstanding dedication to strengthening the Cypriot community and diaspora through service, leadership and philanthropy.

The strongest businesses aren’t the ones that change who they are—they’re the ones that never stop becoming better. Marina Gregoriou shares how a culture of quality and innovation drives long-term success in a family business.

Marina Grigoriou is the Director of Quality Management at Grigoriou B.E., with more than 20 years of experience in quality systems management and food safety, ensuring compliance with international standards. She also actively participates in shaping the company’s marketing strategy. Combining scientific expertise with business experience, she aims to promote a culture of quality, supporting the continuous growth and improvement of the family business and contributing to the evolution of the food industry sector in Cyprus.

Kyriaki Christodoulou is a Chartered Accountant and Group Finance Director with a strong background in finance leadership, governance, financial strategy, reporting, and business transformation. Combines technical accounting expertise with a commercial mindset, analytical thinking, and strong leadership skills. Experienced in driving improvements through technology, business intelligence tools, and data-driven decision-making. Holds a First Class Honours degree in Quantity Surveying from the University of Reading, having excelled academically and received top-student awards. Qualified as an ACA Chartered Accountant, passing all exams on the first attempt and achieving first prize worldwide in Audit & Assurance. International audit experience includes complex, high-profile clients in challenging environments.

Success isn’t built overnight—it’s earned through decades of trust, leadership and the courage to keep evolving. Christos V. Vasiliou reflects on a career shaped by resilience, lifelong learning and leading through change.

Christos V. Vasiliou joined KPMG in Cyprus in 1994 and became a Partner in 1999. Christos has been involved with the audit of large financial institutions including major banks, insurance companies and investment funds. In 2016 he was appointed Deputy Managing Director of KPMG in Cyprus and Managing Director in 2019. In the past, he was Head of the Advisory Department in KPMG Cyprus. He is a member of the Executive Committee of KPMG in Cyprus, a founding member of CIFA (Cyprus Investment Funds Association). He served as a Council member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Cyprus for a number of years. He is also the Chairman of the Cyprus-Australian Business Association (Cyprus Chamber of Commerce & Industry)

Success isn’t about staying in your comfort zone—it’s about having the confidence to start over in a new industry. Pantelis Ftelechas shares the lessons behind building and growing businesses that have earned the trust of customers at home and abroad.

Pantelis Ftellehas is a highly accomplished entrepreneur and senior executive with over 30 years of experience spanning retail clothing stores, solutions to hair loss and baldness, and investment sectors. He has founded and successfully developed multiple businesses, including Terranova, Calliope & Piazza Italia Fashion Retail Stores, and HDC Hair Clinic, demonstrating strong leadership in strategic growth, operations, and financial performance.  He has built scalable business models, driven sustained revenue growth, and built an internationally recognized healthcare brand. In addition to his business ventures, he has held board and advisory roles, actively invests across asset classes, and holds an Economics degree from the London School of Economics

Building a business is one thing. Building a community that changes lives is another. Christopher “Chip” Barnett shares why creating opportunities for people to connect has always been the real mission behind Cyprus Comic Con.

Chip is Dondake’s front-line strategist and relationship lead, with over 19 years of experience across sales, partnerships, event management, and operations. A natural communicator with a background in psychology, he specialises in understanding people, shaping narratives, and navigating high-stakes negotiations. His strength lies in turning vision into action, whether through sponsorship strategy, sales funnels, budget oversight, or partnership development. As a founding organiser of Cyprus Comic Con, Chip has played a key role in scaling the event to national prominence, leading B2B outreach, media partnerships, guest relations, and major sponsorship negotiations. He brings the same structured, people-first approach to client work at Dondake, focusing on growth, strategy, and execution. Chip thrives at the intersection of strategy and storytelling, helping projects move forward with clarity, confidence, and momentum.

What starts as a passion can become a movement. Chris Ellinas shares how a love for gaming, comics and pop culture grew into Cyprus Comic Con—bringing thousands of people together around a shared passion.

Chris Ellinas is a creative strategist and operational lead with over a decade of experience across digital content, marketing, community building, and large-scale event organisation. As Managing Director of Gamers’ Boulevard and co-founder of Cyprus Comic Con, he has built and led communities at scale, balancing long-term vision with hands-on execution. At Dondake, Chris focuses on strategic delivery and outward-facing direction. He works across brand narrative, content strategy, outreach, partnerships, and campaign planning, ensuring that creative ideas translate into clear messaging and practical outcomes. His strength lies in aligning people, ideas, and execution into a single, coherent story. Chris is known for his ability to manage complex operations while maintaining a strong public voice. His experience spans content production, team coordination, guest and partner relations, sponsorship management, and programme development. As a core co-founder of Cyprus Comic Con, he has played a central role in shaping its identity, growth, and ongoing connection with its audience.