What is your current role, and where do you work?
Senior Officer at the Ministry of Interior, Cyprus.
Can you share a bit about your personal and educational background?
I am a proud graduate of American Academy Larnaca, a school that shaped not only my academic path but also my character and lifelong friendships. Growing up, I was encouraged to value education, discipline and service to the community — principles that were reinforced during my years at the Academy.
My years at the Academy were filled with experiences that remain standing in my memory. I was a member of the basketball team, which taught me discipline, teamwork and resilience. I also participated in the Weir Camp — first as a camper and later as a helper — experiences that strengthened my leadership skills and deepened my connection to the school community. The Shield games against the English School, the enriching extracurricular activities, and the sixth-year efforts in the Canteen to raise funds for the trip to Greece, all contributed to a strong sense of belonging and responsibility. I was also a regular blood donor, reflecting an early sense of civic responsibility. These experiences complemented the strong academic foundation the school provided.
One of my most treasured memories is the Top Class show we presented in our final year. The preparation process for that performance, together with the Talent Show and the unforgettable trip to Greece, were among the most exciting and defining moments of our school years. Those shared experiences brought us exceptionally close, creating bonds that have endured over time and evolved into friendships that feel more like extended family.
Academically, I later pursued studies in Economics and International Politics, followed by a Master’s degree in European Studies. I continued with a Master’s in Business Administration and a Master’s in Public Sector Management, building a multidisciplinary foundation. Each step built on the previous one, allowing me to combine economic analysis, strategic thinking and public administration in a meaningful way.
How did your career path unfold from graduation to where you are today?
After completing my studies, I was drawn to public service, motivated by a desire to contribute to institutional development and policymaking. My academic background in Economics and European affairs naturally led me towards roles involving governance and administration.
Over time, through continuous learning and professional dedication, I progressed within the public sector. Today, I serve as a Senior Officer at the Ministry of Interior, where I contribute to policy-making and administrative work that directly impacts citizens and the functioning of the state. My career path has been shaped by steady growth rather than sudden leaps — each role providing valuable experience, responsibility and perspective.
My connection with the Academy, however, did not end at graduation. Years later, I had the honour of serving on the American Academy Alumni Foundation Board of Directors, and I was privileged to be the first Chairwoman, a position I held for four years. Contributing to the American Academy Alumni Foundation community and helping strengthen the bridge between past and present generations of students was a deeply meaningful chapter in my journey. Serving as Chairwoman of the Board allowed me to give back to the institution that played a formative role in shaping my character and values, while supporting its continued connection with new generations of students.
What professional achievement are you most proud of and why?
While professional milestones are important, I am most proud of contributing consistently and responsibly to public service. Working in the Ministry of Interior requires integrity, analytical thinking and a strong sense of duty — values that were instilled in me early on.
Overall, I am particularly proud of having built a multidisciplinary academic background that allows me to approach complex challenges with both analytical rigor and practical understanding. Bridging theory and practice in the public sector is something I value deeply.
Equally, serving as the first Chairwoman of the American Academy Alumni Board stands out as a special achievement. It was an opportunity to give back to an institution that shaped me and to help strengthen its alumni network for future generations.
How did your experience with AAL contribute to your personal or professional growth?
AAL gave me the opportunity ‘to grow and to serve’. It gave me far more than academic knowledge. It instilled discipline, critical thinking, and a strong sense of responsibility for the community. The balance between academic excellence and extracurricular engagement — particularly through sports — helped me develop resilience, teamwork and leadership skills.
The Shield games against the English School Nicosia, the Weir Camp, the sixth-year efforts to raise funds for the trip to Greece, the Top Class show, the Talent Show and the memorable trip to Greece were not just events — they were formative experiences that built character and lifelong friendships.
AAL also nurtured confidence. It encouraged us to think independently, express our views and aim high. The culture of high standards and mutual respect prepared me well for university and later professional life.
What advice would you give to current AAL students?
Embrace every opportunity the school offers— both inside and outside the classroom. Academic excellence is important, but some of your most valuable lessons will come from teamwork, creativity and shared experiences. Participate actively — whether in sports, weir camp, student initiatives or performances. The friendships you build will stay with you for life.
Invest in learning deeply rather than quickly. Be curious, stay disciplined and remain open to growth. Most importantly, remember that success is built gradually through consistency and commitment. The foundation you build at AAL will stay with you long after graduation — often in ways you only fully appreciate years later.
