Inaugural Screening of “Winds of Change” documentary

Olympian and founder of Winds of Change Dr Sophia Papamichalopoulos and her team held a successful inaugural screening of the documentary Winds of Change in Cyprus on 15 October.

This marked the first local screening following its highly acclaimed international premiere during the Olympic Games in Paris this past summer. The documentary captures the historic circumnavigation of Cyprus, an unprecedented journey driven by the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect.

The event was hosted by the United Nations in Cyprus at the UN Chief Mission Residence, with the support of the French Embassy in Cyprus. It celebrated the powerful role sport can play in promoting peace, understanding, and collaboration across societal divides.

A Symbolic Setting for Collaboration and Reconciliation

The screening, held at the UN Chief Mission Residence—a site imbued with symbolic importance—reinforced the evening’s message of unity and reconciliation. Attendees included a diverse cross-section of guests, ranging from representatives of both Cypriot communities and diplomatic missions to sailors, athletes, and Olympians. The evening featured keynote speeches by Mr. Colin Stewart, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Deputy Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on Cyprus (SRSG/DSASG), and H.E. Ms. Clélia Chevrier Kolačko, French Ambassador to Cyprus. Both speakers emphasized the documentary's powerful narrative and the unique ability of sport to foster positive change.

Dr. Papamichalopoulos also addressed the audience, reflecting on her vision behind the expedition and highlighting the critical role of the Olympic spirit in overcoming challenges and building connections in the face of adversity.

About the Film

Winds of Change chronicles the journey of an Olympian and her bi-communal crew as they undertake the first circumnavigation of Cyprus in fifty years. Produced and directed by Alistair Meharg of Helical Productions, the documentary follows Sophia Papamichalopoulos, an Olympian and IOC Young Leader, who sets out on an ambitious mission: to sail around the divided island of Cyprus with a team of young Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.

For nearly five decades, political complexities have made such a journey impossible. However, with a vision of forging a new narrative of collaboration, Papamichalopoulos assembled a team of young Cypriots from both sides of the divide to embark on this historic voyage. Their aim was to challenge perceptions, inspire youth, and foster connections through the unifying power of sport. This transformative journey was made possible by the dedication and support of individuals from both communities.

Watch the Trailer:

Featured Participants: Sophia Papamichalopoulos OLY, Christopher Papamichalopoulos OLY, Erem Hidiroglu, Gözde Akyel, Koulia Patsalidou, Luana Liassi, Melek Kaptanoglu, Nilhan Uzman, Andrianos Charalambous, Berke Dagli, Giannis Minas, Gürdal Safel, Paris Zingis, Cemre Ipciler, Michael Donahue, and many others.