The Philo4Thought Hellenic Professional Mentoring Initiative is pleased to present a special 2015 “Young Professional of the Month” article in honor of Greek Independence Day! The goal of our publications is to provide positive, successful role models who will inspire the next generation of young professionals. A preliminary criterion for #YPM candidates is their active engagement in an entrepreneurial initiative or career path. Candidates are typically of Hellenic origin and part of a philanthropic, humanitarian or environmentally conscious field. The most essential qualification they have in common, however, is the spirit and compassion to persevere, and the heart to share their knowledge and experience with others.

We have had the pleasure to meet today’s featured professional, Elpitha Tsoutsounakis, at a conference hosted by the Pancretan Association of America in Chicago in 2014. In an era when terms like “independence,” “liberty,” and “freedom” ring so heavily with the significance we place on our personal and professional identities, it’s so important to stop and see what the women in our community do to lead and contribute to the community by example… with heart and with dignity. Elpitha is a perfect example. Respected Professor, designer, community leader, wife and mother, we are very pleased and honored to share her journey with you today.

ARTICLE: Identity & Creativity

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: Many thanks to Elpitha Tsoutsounakis for sharing her story with us, and to Zaharoula Marmatakis, PAA’s Women’s Executive Director, for her personal testimonial of our wonderful young professional.