By Nick Stamatakis
On Sunday afternoon, November 30, the day following the historic premiere of Kapodistrias by Yiannis Smaragdis at the Museum of the Moving Image, the Federation of Hellenic Societies and the Know Thyself Initiative, together with Helleniscope, organized a remarkable event at Stathakeion to further honor both the Director and the First Governor of Greece. Rarely has the Greek-American community presented such a unified, dignified, and uplifting presence. The gathering showcased the very best of Hellenism, reflecting the full breadth and depth of its identity. Nomiki Kastana and Dimitris Kalamaras introduced the event.
Giannis Smaragdis himself addressed the audience, offering rare and compelling insights into the challenges and vision behind the completion of this important historical film.
During the event, several significant announcements were made:
Vassilis Mataragas (President of HANC) and Kostas Vangelatos (President of the World Association of Cephalonian and Ithacesian Societies): A bronze statue of Kapodistrias in Hellenikon has already been completed and will be installed in the central square of the Municipality of Hellenikon in the coming months. Plans were also announced for a marble statue to be placed in or around the Greek Parliament. The President of the Greek Parliament has already approved a related proposal, as previously reported by Helleniscope. Additionally, 2026 was announced as “The Year of Kapodistrias,” an initiative by Corfiot organizations to officially designate the year as a national and international celebration of Kapodistrias.
Theodore Pavlakos (former President of the Panlaconian Federation): He announced the inauguration of a Sparta Museum and an Ancient Greek Theater at the University of Connecticut, a remarkable project spearheaded by the organization Paideia.
Nickos Kastrinakis (President of the World Council of Cretans): He announced the formation of an informal “World Council of Hellenism.”
Eleni Phufas-Jousma, representing the International Committee on Germany’s Debt to Greece, reported on the multiple dimensions of these debts stemming from the Second World War, as well as ongoing efforts to enforce their repayment.
Haralambos Vasiliadis, President of the Holy Institution Panagia Soumela, delivered a report on the Hellenic Genocide and then surprised the audience with a powerful and inspired interpretation of the teachings and enduring legacy of Kapodistrias.
Natalia Kapodistria shared her deeply personal experience of the film, connecting it to her Corfiot roots and her descent from the Kapodistrias family.
Sevi Boutos reflected on the broader philosophical outlook of Hellenism toward the world—one rooted in peace, guided by law, and anchored in universal values.
At the conclusion of the video, viewers can watch statements from many of the major sponsors of the premiere, as well as other participants, sharing their reflections on Kapodistrias and his enduring significance.
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