THLG 71st Conference, 30 Oct – 2 Nov 2024

Dear THLG Members,

The THLG Hellenic Conference has concluded, leaving us with countless cherished memories and heartwarming moments shared among friends and colleagues. Judging by the plethora of photos and warm testimonials, it was undoubtedly a resounding success. Let’s revisit some of the highlights and interesting moments.

To begin with, the location of our hotel was undoubtedly the best the city has to offer.  Situated alongside the waterfront it offered breathtaking sunsets and countless moments of relaxation, enjoying drinks while taking in the fresh sea breeze.

Blessed with perfect weather throughout, the conference began with a delightful Welcome Dinner on a warm and serene evening at the Marrone restaurant in the eastern part of the city. The night’s highlight was largely debatable; the delicious Moussaka or the lively Greek plate-breaking tradition that had everyone singing and dancing alongside the host team?  One could not easily decide, as our host member had prepared a genuine folklore experience including a live band and a singer.  Definitely an ice-breaking event bringing us all together in an attempt to discover our inner Zorba and connect to the Greek way of life.

The following morning began with an invigorating Stretching & Mobility Session led by Angelos Cosmatos by the waterfront, setting the tone for a productive conference day. During the Conference, key updates were delivered by THLG ExCom members:

Colin D’Abreo (Treasurer) shared THLG Budget items,

Richard Lee (CSR Manager) informed of CSR future plans,

Alessio Bianchi (Admissions Officer) discussed membership growth,

Marianne Blechingberg (BDO Officer) covered sustainability initiatives, and

Elisabeth Cosmatos (President and Marketing Manager) outlined all MarComs feature the past 18 months.

The agenda also featured captivating presentations:

Thessaloniki’s Port Prospects by Mr. Sacha Van As, Commercial Manager of Thessaloniki Port

Greek Language – A journey around the world by Mr. Theodore Papanghelis, Emeritus Professor of Classics,

Neuroscience: Practices for Optimal Decision Making by Dr. Nikolas Dimitriadis, Neuromarketing and Communication Specialist.

Additionally, impressive case studies and presentations were given by the members, ensuring that we all gained valuable knowledge about their company projects and country opportunities.

THLG president, Elisabeth Cosmatos, and our host, shared some of the city’s rich history and culture in her opening speech and attendees received thoughtfully chosen gifts, including a backpack for the Mt. Olympus hike, a copy of Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis, personalized T-shirts featuring philosophical quotes, and a THLG safety jockey.

We also organized a special Fun Day for family members who were not attending the conference. Led by Evi Charalambidou, a Thessaloniki native with an in-depth knowledge of the city’s culture and hidden gems, the group embarked on a route combining sightseeing and local culinary delights.  Evi guided the group to the Holy Church of Saint Dimitrios, Thessaloniki’s Patron Saint, a historic UNESCO World Heritage site known as one of the city’s oldest and largest churches. They visited the Roman Agora and strolled through the small alleys of Athonos square.  Along the way, the participants tasted traditional Greek treats, including the famous bougatsa (a sweet or savory pastry), Greek coffee, and olives. The tour continued through landmarks such as the Arch of Galerius and the Rotonda and came to an end with a delightful lunch with beautiful views of the city’s iconic White Tower.

The Greek spirit continued to shine during the Gala Dinner at the eclectic award-winning Grada Nuevo where chef Apostolos Rigas had prepared a fine dining 6 course meal for the guests boasting Mediterranean flavors.  The enchanting atmosphere was elevated by a violinist from the Thessaloniki State Orchestra, performing timeless classics.  Attendees received certificates featuring symbols of peace (olive branch) and wisdom (owl), and in a uniquely Greek touch, each member was crowned with a golden olive tiara in honor of the ancient Greek god whose characteristics fit them, revealing among us Zanes, Cupids, Dionysuses, as well as Aphrodites and Athenas. This joyous and playful moment added an extra sparkle to an already remarkable evening.

The next two days showcased Greece’s culture and natural beauty.

Our first excursion took us to the Tombs of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, and the Museum of Aigai.  Our host member was able to secure the esteemed tour guide Constantinos Sfikas who captured his audience in the details he shared of ancient Greek history and mythology.  Walking the same paths as Alexander the Great and gazing upon the landscapes he once knew, we couldn’t help but feel awe for the legacy surrounding us.  After the tour, we enjoyed an extraordinary lunch at a traditional local taverna, where every dish was made from local ingredients, one slow-cooked for 16 hours in the fireplace. The restaurant was in a peaceful remote village that gave us the perfect opportunity for a group photo in the meadows.  Whilst enjoying our meal, we were surprised by the performance of traditional dances. Dressed in decorated local costumes, the dancers waved wooden swords with precision, dramatically striking them against the ground to symbolize ancient battles.

Our second excursion took us to Mt. Olympus, the mythical home of the Greek gods.  Firstly, we visited the Olympus National Park Information Center where we were informed of the unique flora and fauna of the mountain as well as the history of conquering its peak, Mytikas, at 2917 meters high.  We continued walking in the Olympian Forest which nested the Greek gods according to mythology and were able to spot Zeus’ throne between the two mountain tops.  We were enchanted by the silent forest that humbled us with its magical autumnal colors and echoing stillness.  During our hike, we made a stop at the magnificent waterfalls of Enipeas river.  A moment to reflect, but also try a Norwegian traditional herb schnapps offered by Thomas Parlow.  At the same time, several of our members attempted to and succeeded in building a rock tower making it evident that nature has a common code of communication that unites so many people, allowing each one to bring part of their culture to the group.

Overall, the members seemed enthused with the vibrant rhythm of the city, which easily shifts from a place of relaxation and contemplation into a place full of life and action, full of fun and gastronomy and as the conference drew to a close that final evening, farewells were exchanged outside the hotel lobby, emotional but filled with the promise of our future reunion. Our next gathering is already set: The Hague in May 2025. Until then, ΕΙΣ ΤΟ ΕΠΑΝΙΔΕΙΝ (Iss to Epanidin – “Till We Meet Again”).

Best regards,

THLG ExCom