Inspiration goes through action: Two athletes' personal journeys and the story of Karaiskakio

A fascinating discussion took place between Olympic champion Pavlos Kontides, Paralympic champion Maria Markou Pikkoua and the Founder of Karaiskakio Foundation, Michalis Karaiskakis, during Inspire 2024: Entrepreneurial Festival, taking place on Makarios Avenue in Nicosia.

Addressing the festival audience, the three emphasised that professional and business success means "breaking barriers, overcoming barriers and also giving back to society."

The two athletes with the support of OPAP managed not only to overcome difficulties but also to become social role models for young men and women.

Pavlos Kontides had some encourages words for the youth: "Let your dreams be so big that they think you're crazy," he said characteristically.

Recounting his own adventure with the waves – pun intended – the Olympic champion spoke of a period of self-reflection which he said is "necessary" for those who want to succeed.

He young people to have a "compass" in life to find the path to achieve their dreams.

Maria Markou Pikkoua, who was in a car accident in 2009 while still a schoolgirl, told the audience: "After the accident, I had a lot of problems to deal with on a daily basis, but I got over it. I had two options: To shut myself off at home or to take my life in my own hands. And I chose the second option."

"I feel proud that I managed to survive and be alive. I managed to overcome all the problems I had. When things get difficult, they can be overcome; and I am a living example of that," she added.

The Founder of Karaiskakio Foundation shared his own personal stories of perseverance and leadership, highlighting how taking action in the face of adversity can lead to meaningful change. Michalis Karaiskakis referred to “a flood of humanity from our fellow citizens”, noting with pride that "we have the largest bone marrow bank in the world in relation to our population".

He said the most rewarding thing for the foundation is when a compatible donor is found, “which means we have achieved our objective”.

And addressing the two athletes he concluded: “Great athletes are also great human beings as well.”

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