As The Hellenic Initiative Australia enters its next chapter, we are pleased to introduce our new President. Having been part of the organisation for over a decade, George’s journey reflects a deep and enduring commitment to supporting a strong and sustainable Greece and strengthening the connection with the Greek Australian diaspora.

The Kailis name is synonymous with the Seafood Industry in Australia, particularly in Perth, Western Australia. George P. Kailis, the family patriarch, founded the Perth seafood business GP Kailis & Sons in 1926. His four sons would follow their seafaring ancestors from the Greek island of Kastellorizo into the seafood business.

In this conversation, we explore George’s vision for the future, the values that guide him, and his reflections on identity, leadership, and impact.

Q: As you step into the role of President, what are your key priorities for The Hellenic Initiative Australia in the year ahead?

A: Stepping into this role, I am very conscious of how much THI Australia has evolved. It was founded during the 2012 financial crisis, when the priority for Greece was crisis relief – there was no time to plan, only to act.

Today, the challenges are different but just as important.  To adapt to these changes, we are undertaking a strategic review which will include a five-year plan focussing on how we can more effectively mobilise the diaspora and contribute to Greece’s prosperity.

A key priority for me is broadening our supporter base. We have already begun this through initiatives like the Women of the Greek Diaspora Forum, and we are planning an even larger forum this year. At the same time, I have been engaging with younger Greek Australian professionals, and it has been incredibly encouraging to see their desire to stay connected and contribute. This will result in the launching of THI Australia New Leaders in the coming weeks.

Finally, a major focus remains delivering the inaugural Delphi Economic Forum in Australia. While recent events forced a postponement, the continued support from our partners has been very reassuring, and we remain committed to bringing this to life in late 2026.

Q: You have been part of THI Australia since 2015. What has kept you personally committed to the organisation’s mission over the years?

A: Undoubtedly my connection to Greece and the friendships created have genuinely enriched my life. Of course, we are all aware that Greece is very much responsible for its recent economic woes. However, in the context of what Greece has given to the world for over 2000 years this is a blimp and now more than ever it is time for the diaspora to help her emerge from this challenging period in her history.

Greeks have proven themselves to be resilient. Just think of the 400 years of Ottoman rule where the language, culture and religion all survived. If this does not make you proud nothing will. 

Q: Some believe the need for humanitarian support in Greece has passed. From your perspective, what realities do people often misunderstand?

A: Yes, the economy has improved but there are many aspects of Greek life that are still well below accepted EU standards. In 2026, approximately 26.9% of the Greek population, approximately 2.74 million people – is estimated to be living at risk of poverty or social exclusion. Youth unemployment is still around 14 % which is more than double the national average. Wages remain very low especially compared to the rising costs of living. There is also the issue of Greece’s shrinking population which has come about largely because of the lack of confidence young Greeks have in their financial ability to raise a family. 

Q: What is one moment during your time with THI that has stayed with you?

A: There are many moments that have touched me. One is hearing how a small group of Greek Americans who had seen first-hand how bad the situation was in Greece more than 13 years ago, approached the then CEO of Dow Chemical Andrew N Liveris AO and implored him to use his influence and experience to help Greece. This was the genesis of The Hellenic Initiative. Andrew along with co-founder George Stamas set about making this their lifelong mission and soon after THI chapters were established in Australia, Canada, and the UK. 

Equally powerful was visiting the Doctors of the World Clinic Greece Open Polyclinic in Athens and meeting the former President and paediatrician, Dr Chara Tziouvara. A clinic that provides essential healthcare services to the poorest of the poor. That day certainly put many of life’s priorities into perspective. 

Volunteering and seeing first-hand the amazing philanthropic work done by charity founders Alex Theodoridis (Boroume) and Maria Karra (Emfasis) was both humbling and inspiring.

Q: Your family were among the early Greek immigrants to Australia. What lessons or values from them have stayed with you and continue to shape your leadership today?

A: I have been fortunate  to have had tremendous role models in my life and whilst I never knew my paternal grandfather (G P Kailis) his Presidency of the Hellenic Community in Perth was well documented. He instilled in his 6 children (including my father Michael) the significance of our Greek heritage, the importance of giving and to always lead by example. 

Q: What message would you most like to pass on to the next generation of Greek Australians about identity, opportunity, and giving back?

A: Embrace your Greek ethnicity with all your strength, never take it for granted. Honour the sacrifices made by those who left Greece to come to Australia for a new life by preserving our traditions and culture including language and religion. Find ways to stay connected to your Greek roots by joining the various associations and travel back to Greece as often as you can. 

Q: For someone visiting Greece for the first time:

One place they absolutely must visit? When you need to escape the τρέλα (craziness) of Athens (which I love) Hydra stands out as one of my favourite islands. It has a no car and motor bike policy, is kept spotlessly clean and is very accessible to Athens. 

A museum that captures the spirit of Greece? The Benaki Museum stands out for me. This neoclassical mansion houses a comprehensive collection of treasures that takes one on a journey from the prehistoric period through antiquity up to the present day.

It also has a fabulous gift store and cafe which is great spot to be on a Sunday morning around 10 am to watch the passing parade which takes place right in front of the museum on Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens.

A local taverna experience they should not miss? I love Greek food and Manari Taverna in the heart of Athens is one of my favourites. For something a little more fancy I would recommend Pharoah which is super cool and has great seasonal menu with interesting twists on classic Greek dishes we all know and love.

End.