Giannis Altanopoulos

Giannis serves as Curator and Co-Founder of TEDxPatras since 2014. A TED enthusiast as he has attended several TEDx events and the TEDFest 2018 in New York (an annual gathering of TEDx organizers from all over the world). He is currently a member of the Communication and Innovation Support team at Athena Research Center. Giannis holds a MSc degree in Marketing and Communication from Athens University of Economics & Business and BCs in Business Administration from the University of Patras. He has also worked as a marketing manager, digital marketing specialist and marketing advisor. Giannis, also, is the Executive Director of Patras Science Festival which aims to create a communication platform between science and the general public while contributing to the dissemination of new scientific researches. Giannis has built up competencies in project planning, marketing strategy, media content, community management and digital marketing. Furthermore, he has participated in the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Unit of the University of Patras and he has attended an online program about Developing Innovative Ideas for New Companies from University of Maryland. His research interests include Science Communication, Social Entrepreneurship and Brand Management. Giannis is actively engaged in volunteering and participates in initiatives to communicate innovative ideas and science. He loves playing piano and composing music.

Kostas Andreou

I was born and raised in Aracova Viotias. My educational background is chemical engineer with an MBA. I have been working the last 14 years in various managerial positions in construction industries such as concrete, cement and lately, alumina. I am also a co-founder, along with my younger brother, of a small company of organic food and alternative accommodation in our hometown.

Elena Chronopoulou

After several years as an engineer in the Telecommunication industry, Elena made a pivot by joining a global flight-centric Online Travel Agency, as a Development Manager. Elena is a people leader at heart committed to creating high-performing teams that feel empowered and valued while sharing meaningful collaboration and connections.
Positively focusing on the possibilities, rather than the constraints, she is curiosity-driven with a constant interest in personal development.
Excited and proud of being on the core team since the first TEDxPatras back in 2015, she aims to provide state-of-the-art hospitality to TEDxPatras Speakers.
In love with the outdoors, she enjoys active time skiing, hiking, running, and stand-up paddling. She also loves music, piano, and dancing.
Her dog is called Juckie and is a part of the TEDxPatras family!

Lena Dagouli

Lena is a recent graduate of Patras school of Architecture. She has worked as an architect at ”React Architects” since January 2022. There, she is gaining experience on designing & building vacation homes which she really loves. She is fascinated by books which explore social issues, the human existence and coexistence. This has been her inspiration. As an architect, she aims to be able to design in a way that will have a positive impact in people’s everyday life.
She has been part of the TEDx organization team since 2018. She co-designs and she is responsible of the final stage. Her partitipation in the team fulfils her with what she loves the most, which is getting inspired & creating.

Fotis Dallas

Born and raised in Athens back in 1987, Fotis is Maintenance Manager in the cement industry, holding a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering (NTUA) and a MSc in Energy Production and Management. He has also worked in the oil and gas sector as Reliability Engineer in an oil refinery while has supervised many installations of photovoltaic plants. Passions and hobbies? Of course travelling and sports. Dreams about the future? Travel across the universe and investigate new cultures. As a foodie he loves nice food, drinking coffees with friends and socializing by meeting new people. Excited to be part of TEDx Patra’s Family.

George Daniil

George Daniil, born in Athens in 1997, is a passionate cybersecurity researcher working with the Network Architectures and Management group at the University of Patras. Beyond his academic pursuits, he’s an enthusiastic volunteer, having previously served as the chair of the European student association EESTEC for the Local Committee of Patras. He’s also a certified soft skills trainer, thanks to his time with the EESTEC training team. In the past, George used to be the volunteer coordinator at PatrasIQ for three consecutive years and served as the venues leader for the Patras Science Festival.

Magdalene Demartinou

Lawyer. Freelancer. She lives and works in Patras. She has worked with insurance company, bank, social insurance institution, deposit and loan fund. She has a daughter. She loves traveling, books, movies and walks near the sea.

Gabriel Drakatos

Gabriel was born back at 2000 in Patras city, Greece. He studied graphic design and digital media at the Patras public experimental vocational training institute. Since then, he’s working as a graphic designer. Gabriel has a passion for photography. He started experimenting with it as a hobby and since 2018 he has successfully turned his hobby into his profession.

Semira Maria Evangelou

I hold a diploma (5 years Engineering degree with an Integrated M.Sc.) from the Department of Computer Engineering & Informatics at the University of Patras. I also completed a master’s degree in the Human-Computer Interaction field. During my master’s studies, I discovered my passion for UX design and the importance of that field. I am software engineering, who loves exploring complex projects in search of delightful user experiences. I am currently a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Patras and my research interests are mainly focused on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI).

Iason Georgiadis

Junior software engineer and pursuing a degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering at University of Patras. Involved as both a volunteer and core team member/IT for TEDxPatras since 2018. Active trainer of digital literacy in Erasmsus+ projects. Loves good comedy and shooting hoops.

Eleni Gioti

Eleni has worked in several sales departments and has done secretarial work for many local companies, based in Patras. She has been Volunteer in many activities, in and outside Patras, through groups and companies of mainly cultural interest. This experience brought her in contact and then led her on the path of co-operating with organizations of events and performances. She has worked on a variety of theatrical productions, in cooperation with professionals and amateurs, from all over Greece, as co-ordinating producer, assistant director in adult and children’s performances and as a school coordinator. During the Christmas period 2016-2017 she worked for the organization, staffing and coordination departments of the Patras Christmas thematical park “Magical Village”. Since 2017 she coordinates the demanding field of logistics in events such as Patras Science Festival and TEDxPatras.

Alexandra Goudis

Alexandra was born in Manchester. She holds an MSc in Financial and Business Economics from the University of Essex and currently lives in Patras and works at the Library and Information Center of the University of Patras. She conducts research on Regional Economics and Clustering aiming at obtaining a postgraduate doctoral degree from the University of Patras. Furthermore, she is engaged in a European research project on Citizen -enhanced open science in Southeastern Europe Higher Education knowledge hubs (CEOs SE). In 2015, she co-curated the first TEDxPatras ‘Sea of Voices’ and since then she is proud to be part of the TEDxPatras team. Her personality is based on her artistic aptitude and the gene of shyness. She loves nature, travelling, painting, choosing oldies music for her radio show, reading books at her favorite café, Italian cuisine, hats and her precious dog. Over the 2 years of quarantine and isolation, she made the most of her time by writing a book-guide for the city of Patras.

Giannis Grigoratos

28 years old accountant, loves bicycling, book reading & socializing. Second year in ted-x core team as financial expert, ready to live the dream!

Maria Kantani

I am a primary school teacher, graduated from University of Patras and huge ESA fan and astronomy enthusiast. I have been involved in various projects regarding Space Awareness and Space Education. I consider myself a devoted bookworm, coffeeholic and sea addict. Exploring all kind of mysteries with my students is best part of my day. I attended my first TEDx event at TEDxPatras 2017, then I got too excited to let go. So, here I am…

Ilias Karachalios

My passion for constantly changing the world in order to be a better place, was discovered while I was discovering myself. I never stop studying, because I want to discover more.

I consider myself as an Environmental Educator (BSc Environmental Management, intMEng Environmental Engineer, MSc Environmental Conservation, MEd Special Education and currently PhD candidate in Environmental Education). I love getting people excited about the things I’m excited about. Right now, that’s how we can change the world through education.

Outside of work, I’m committed to education and activities with social impact. I love art, sports and traveling. I’m fluent in English (and speak a little french), and am always looking to brush up my language skills over coffee or drinks. If you challenge me , you ‘ll motivate me. I live a “normal” life but I’m always ready to travel and escape. I already lived in 3 countries and traveled to 47.

Connect with me over LinkedIn for networking, sharing ideas and more!

Elena Karydi

Elena was born in Lefkada in the year 2000. She is a Master’s student at the University of Patras studying Biomedical Sciences. As a researcher, she aspires to make the greatest possible contribution to the field of biology. She has been a TEDxPatras volunteer since 2018, giving her all at each event.

Antonia Katrimpouza

Born in Athens but with her heart shared between Patras and Paris. She completed her undergraduate and postgraduate studies at the Department of Primary Education of the University of Patras. She introduces herself as a teacher who keeps world’s future in her classroom. Her two great loves are nature and travels. Finding “people” the most original source of motivation, she never misses the opportunity to participate in the organization of events aimed at ideas worth spreading.

Panagiotis Kavadias

Panagiotis Kavadias is a graduate of Computer Engineering and Informatics Department of the University of Patras, currently working as Telecom Software Engineer. Panagiotis has participated as a volunteer in local events and since 2019 he is member of TEDxPatras Core Team as IT manager. He loves trips, reading, hanging out, having new experiences and making new friends.

Spiros Vathis

Old dog of software engineer with a background in mathematics and computer science.
Gen-Xer (even though younger people often mistake him for boomer), with all typical traits: shoots film, collects records and listens to FM radio.
Passionate about philosophy (preferably stoic) and psychology (preferably systemic).
Father to a son.

Aggeliki Kolliropoulou

Eleni Kondyli

Eleni spends her working days as a quality engineer in the fieldwork of bridge maintenance. When not working, you can usually find her exploring the little inspiring happenings in town or planning the next trip.

Dimitra Koukidi

Adriana Koulieri

Adriana was born in Athens in 1992. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Communications, Advertising and Public Relations (Services Management) at Athens Universtity of Economic and Business. She splits her time between Athens and Patras, where she is working for a concert promotion and production company. From 2012 to 2016 she was a volunteer radio producer and music columnist. Also, she has been actively involved in Public Speaking events as a core team member and speaker too.”

Dimitris Kouniakis

Dimitris has been a TEFL educator and school owner for over 20 years. He has introduced, implemented and promoted many innovative approaches, methodologies and interventions in the Greek ELT market. In 2015, he published “No Homework Framework”, a visionary programme emphasizing classroom learning over excessive home workload. Dimitris has also delivered teacher training on language school management and gamification across the country. His commitment to life long-learning finds currently being a postgraduate MA in TESOL student. He has also been a volunteer & core team member of TEDxPatras since 2015.

Giannis Koutoulogenis

Giannis has experienced TEDxPatras through various roles, first as an attendee, then as a volunteer and the last 6 years as member of the organizing team! With a tech background and working as a software engineer, he holds a more creative role in TEDxPatras, that of coordinating the event production and the communication between the internal teams. He believes volunteering is a driving force of innovation and he loves traveling around Europe and beyond.

Raphael Koutoulogenis

Για εμένα το TEDx Patras σημαίνει, η δυνατότητα να γνωρίσω άτομα σημαντικά και μη, με σκοπό να ανταλλάξουμε εμπειρίες και γνώσεις αλλά και την αντίληψη των πραγμάτων του κόσμου γύρω μας.
Ο στόχος μου στην ομάδα φωτογραφίας είναι να μπορέσω να αναδείξω στο έπακρο όλα τα συναισθήματα που βγαίνουν μέσα από αυτή την όμορφη διαδικασία.

Aspasia Kralli

Aspasia, a Business Administration graduate specializing in Marketing, has honed her skills in communication, marketing, event planning, promotion, and sales. Her professional journey is driven by an insatiable curiosity and an unwavering commitment to effecting positive change in society.

In her current role as a communication officer, Aspasia utilizes her expertise to drive impactful initiatives. Additionally, she’s an active member of TEDxPatras, where she contributes as a social media and media coordinator, amplifying inspiring ideas.

Beyond her professional and volunteer commitments, Aspasia’s heart is deeply invested in exploring new horizons and immersing herself in diverse cultures through travel, hiking, and photography. In her endeavors, she effortlessly weaves together her enthusiasm, sense of purpose, and a profound affection for exploring the world, all while maintaining a steadfast motivation to make a meaningful difference in society.

Anthie Krili

I am an Electrical and Computer Engineer and currently i am working in Cambridge, UK. Since my first year of studies, i have participated as a volunteer in University events and local cultural teams. I have been a volunteer at TEDxPatras since 2015. The idea of such a culturally beneficial event happening in our town is so exciting to me and i am glad i can help bring it to life once more. In my free time, i enjoy swimming and water-polo.

Olis Lagopanagiotopoulou

Olis Lagopanagiotopoulou was born in 1997. She is a student of the chemistry department of the University of Patras. She expects to give her best in order to contribute to the effective  organisation and integration of TEDx Patras. In this year’s TEDx will be at the Registration.

Kostas Lampropoulos

I am Kostas Lampropoulos and I have been living in Patras, Greece for all my life. I studied Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Patras and I received my Diploma degree in 2003 and my PhD in 2012. I am currently member of the Network Architectures and Management Group of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department of University of Patras and project manager for EU projects with special focus in Cyber-security and eHealth. In my free time I play basketball, watch movies, listen to music and travel with my family.

Garyfallia Liappi

Garyfallia is a Civil Engineer (MSc) and currently a PhD Student in the Department of Civil Engineering at University of Patras. Her research interests focus on Smart Infrastructures and Applications in the built environment. She currently participates in projects funded by the European Union, giving ongoin engineering support and problem solving to systems engineering as well as supporting academic work. Her adaptability and enthousiasm are some of her assets and she gets inspired by innovatory ideas and visionary people. “

Eleftheria Marinou

Εleftheria Marinou is a Software Engineer with a Master of Engineering from University of Patras. Currently, she is doing her second Master in Business Administration at Hellenic Open University. She loves negotiating the world through poetry and painting.
In her free time, you probably find her sketching cartoons at coffee shops or cycling among the streets. She strongly believes that being a volunteer is like going back to childhood; a lot of magic can happen just by acting wholeheartedly! So far, she has been a volunteer at SISTECH (2022), TEDx Patras (2017), Center of Creative Occupation of Movement “PROTASI” (2016-2018) and this year back to TEDx Patras!

Panagiotis Mavrommatis

When not decoding the secrets of the cosmos, you can find him on a quest for the world’s best pizza, armed with a pepperoni-seeking radar and a magnetic attraction to new acquaintances. Whether he’s solving the mysteries of the universe or forming a worldwide pizza lovers’ club, Panagiotis is always up for an adventure and a cheesy punchline.

Phoebe Panagiotou

Phoebe Panagiotou is currently studying Civil Engineering at the University of Patras. She has previously worked as a columnist at “PollsandPolitics”, a news and media website, with more than two years of experience. At the moment, she is working as a content creator, at @WomenlyOfficial, a page about women empowerment and support. Lastly, she is an active Young Representative of the House of Young Representatives of Cyprus, at the Commission of Human Rights and Equal Opportunities for Men and Women.

Eleni Papadima

Hi! I am Eleni. Currently, I am doing my master’s in Natural Science Education and I am working as a tutor. I have been a volunteer of TEDxPatras since 2017. I love being part of this team, it has been a blast and I am excited for what is to come.

Giannis Gialenios

Hi there people!
I am Giannis, and as a person i am always looking for a new challenge in my life. As i am also a quick learner, i am working into adjusting more smoothly to different situations and evolve myself after each and every moment. At my line of work as a RF/Analog IC Designer, I also enjoy being surrounded with like-minded individuals, in order to improve myself.
Being part of this amazing TEDxPatras team has already been a great experience, which fortunately, has a lot more to offer. Can’t wait to welcome you to our next event, as part of the Registration & Attendee Success Team.

Michalis Dimitrakopoulos

Michail Dimitrakopoulos, born in Athens in 2000, has just completed his studies in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Aeronautics of the University of Patras. With an eye toward high-impact innovations, Michail seeks to make meaningful advancements in engineering and technology. Beyond his professional pursuits, Michail is driven by a genuine desire to actively engage with society and exchange ideas or bring people closer. This commitment is evident through his involvement with organizational and volunteering teams, such as Maker Faire, Robotex, and TEDx. In his leisure time, Michail directs his curiosity into photography, capturing unique perspectives that offer fresh insights into the world. He currently serves as a member of the SOME team at TEDx Patras.

Konstantinos Papanikolaou

Hi! I am Konstantinos Papanikolaou and I am the new entry in the experience team of TEDx Patras. I come from Thessaloniki, the Winterfell of Greece, as I like to call it and I am an undergraduate student at the department of chemical engineering at the University of Patras. I am also an active member and a coordinator at Engenius Patras, a student network of chemical engineers located in Patras. My love for volunteering and giving to the community through actions, were the to main reasons I joined the TEDx Patras team. I also enjoy reading books, travelling to new destinations and I recently started running, which I really like but I am still getting the hang of it.

John Paraskevas

I am a physics student with a passion for photography and videography. Even though this passion started as a hobby, I feel lucky enough to doit professionally. My role in TedxPatras 2018 is making videos about the event.

Marina Perivolari

I adore travelling, getting to know people and learning new things. I like walking in the city and discovering corners and hidden spots that I hadn’t noticed before.
I believe that knowledge is power.
I am a librarian and I work in the library of a research center. I love my work. I have a degree in librarianship and a Masters in cultural management.
I attended TEDx Patras four years ago and I was enthused by the sense of value of knowledge and innovation I felt. That’s why I wanted to see how this event is built. I am a member of the Community team of TEDx Patras. We are trying to bring TEDx closer to the city of Patras.

Evangelia Petta

Evangelia Petta is a graduate of the Department of History and Archeology of the University of Athens and a postgraduate student in the field of Cultural Management. She is also involved in the design of educational programs in Museums and loves theater. About TEDxPatras, she believes that it is the ideal environment to tell stories in a context of free expression, creativity and originality.

Christos Sideras

Christos Sideras is a dedicated Master’s student in Drug Discovery and Development at the University of Patras, Greece. With a passion for social causes and environmental sustainability, he has actively volunteered for over four years and was previously associated with GreenpeaceGR. As a member of the TEDxPatras, Christos contributes his organizational skills and enthusiasm to the Venue team, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for all attendees.

Marina Skembetzi

Marina Skembetzi is a student of Architecture. Her occupations are photography and creating new design ideas. Her aim is to highlight this year’s TEDxPatras by properly designing the venue and imprinting it on the lens!

Eleni Sotiropoulou

Helen born in 1979 in Sydney Australia. She moved to Patras, Greece at the age of 4. She loves fashion and especially clothes and accessories and this was the reason why she choose to study Fashion, Apparel & Design techniques at the Institute of Professional Training ▪ 1999.

She is a skillful professional, enjoying working with people and capable to fit and collaborate in a multicultural environment. Innovative and creative in presenting and communicating groups, people, products etc. Administration and management skills of European and National projects, with experience in exploitation and implementation of project results. Organizing and planning events at International and National level.

At present she works at Athena Research and Innovation Center, dealing with Public Relations / Events & Meetings Planning / Organization and Communication.

Vassilis Tountopoulos

I am the founder and managing partner of MPDO, a boutique consulting business hub, located in Patra, Greece, where I live. I have a 28 years working experience most of which in banking and management consulting. I have an MBA, an MSc in Tourism Management and currently pursuing a PhD degree in business data analytics. My biggest achievement is my 3 kids family which inspire me to volunteer for ideas worth spreading… That’s why I feel like a …native born TEDxster!

Maria Vgeni – Panagiotopoulou

Charmed by the beauty of numbers was the reason Maria studied Mathematics. Being a curious person she didn’t restrict herself in the specific scientific field but she tried to broaden her horizon. So, she has acquired an MSc in Information Systems and she is currently studying to acquire an MBA in management.

In the same time, she started working in the ΙCT industry and today she has 20 years of experience spanning from SW engineering to Project Management.

Always keen on volunteering Maria is supporting various initiatives aiming to help people to expand their knowledge and views. Under that prism, she is contributing in TEDxPatras.

Diagoras Marios Vougas

Diagoras believes that talking in the 3rd person about yourself, it can be a valid sign of a personality disorder. So, I am a Computer Engineer and I admire the computer revolution since I was very young. I specialize in the Electronic Payment Industry with 5 years of experience and currently I am working in a Payment Scheme, consulting and working alongside with the executive team of the biggest bank in Greece. I am a proud member of TEDxPatras photography core team since 2017. I love outdoors, camping in nature and hiking with friends.

Thanos Zitouniatis

This brief CV was completely created using Openai’s Chatgpt May24 Version.
Prompt: Write a short paragraph about me. Use the 3rd person.

“Thanos is an extraordinary individual whose presence leaves an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to cross paths with him. With an unparalleled passion for knowledge and an insatiable curiosity, Thanos embraces life as a continuous learning journey. His relentless pursuit of excellence is matched only by his unwavering determination to make a positive impact on the world. Whether it’s through his intellectual pursuits, creative endeavors, or unwavering commitment to helping others, Thanos embodies the true essence of a visionary. His charismatic nature and innate ability to inspire those around him make him a natural communicator, someone who effortlessly brings people together and fosters a sense of unity and collaboration. Thanos is a beacon of inspiration, lighting the way for others to follow their dreams and leave an enduring legacy.”

AI is NOT completely accurate, but, I will strive to prove it right.