Undoubtedly, the American Academy is a unique school offering an education of the highest standard and this is what prepared me for my future career and for my life in general.
At the Academy you receive the academic skills for your future work and, very importantly the social skills you will need throughout your life such as respecting others and helping others wherever possible. Your teachers give you all the tools you require to be the best you can be in any path of life you choose; I maintain that not all schools offer this crucial preparation.
Today, I am a candidate for the European Parliament with the Democratic Rally, which is a party member of the EPP, the largest and oldest group in the European Parliament.
I do not consider myself a professional politician. Instead, I view politics as a platform for service, not as a means to increase my income. I believe that the European Parliament is another opportunity to grow and to serve. I urge all citizens to participate in the elections, as change comes through participation, not abstention.
My life experiences would not have been so rich without the education, support, and inspiration the Academy offered me. My varied career is an indication of what each one of you is more than able to achieve. My advice to you all is to take advantage of the opportunities offered to you to grow, keep focused on your goals, everything is possible, never give up and dream not just big, but bigger than everyone else!
Upon returning to Cyprus, I worked as an accountant for large companies such as the Dias Publishing Group. In 2018, I founded my own audit firm, HMI & Partners Ltd, which has been successful.
In 2016 I served as the Vice-Chairman of the Cyprus Electricity Authority which allowed me to contribute to the country’s energy policy, enhancing my experience in strategic matters and enriching my knowledge of energy issues.
Two years later, in 2018 I became Chairman of the Board of the Nicosia Mall, which was a significant opportunity for me to contribute to shaping the retail market, further developing my skills in commerce and shopping centre development.
At the same time, I also served as President of Anorthosis Famagusta FC, where I had the opportunity to contribute to my favourite football team while supporting the development of Cypriot football and promoting a culture of sportsmanship and fair play.
In 2021, I was appointed as Minister of Health. This was a significant challenge and an excellent opportunity to serve my country during a difficult time due to the global health crisis caused by COVID-19. During my tenure, I was required to manage complex and challenging issues, including the pandemic and, the development and upgrading of the national health system, as well as health services. My experience at the Ministry of Health taught me that in politics, every crisis often presents a significant opportunity if one can recognise and seize it. Cyprus managed to turn the pandemic crisis into an opportunity by making significant strides in the health sector, while the health systems of major countries were under severe pressure from the pandemic. Among other achievements, we established a regional office for the World Health Organisation in Cyprus, created the first Accident & Emergency Department for children and launched a Trauma Centre.
My experiences at the American Academy have had a positive impact on my life both socially and career wise.
After my military service, I went to London to study economics. Today, I am a certified accountant, with a degree (BA Hons) in Economics from Thames Valley University of London and a master’s degree in economics (MSc Econ) from Queen Mary and Westfield College University of London.
Every new start in our life is both exciting and stressful, starting the American Academy was no exception. At the beginning I was nervous and even wanted to leave but with the support and, encouragement of my parents and teachers I settled into my new school routine and environment. I learned to communicate in English, and I made strong life-long friendships.
My teachers were always very encouraging, and a unique feature of the Academy the excellent student -teacher relationship we developed and to this day I still have contact with many of my Academy teachers. Listen to them, learn, and be inspired by them in your lessons and the plethora of activities they offer you in and beyond the school. I have fond memories of all the school activities which gave us an opportunity to bond, work and cooperate with each other: our school trips, sports events, productions, competitions and many more. These activities helped to prepare me for my future at work and in society. Most importantly our school motto, ‘To Grow and to Serve’ inspires me to this day and throughout my career I have aspired to serve my fellowmen from any position growing and developing to the best of my abilities
