Demetris Skourides - Shaping Cyprus as a Global Innovation Powerhouse

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Demetris Skourides, the Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation, and Technology of the Republic of Cyprus, a visionary leader who is reshaping the country’s future and putting Cyprus on the global map of science, innovation, and AI.We explore his journey from a global career at Oracle and AWS to becoming the architect of Cyprus’s Vision 2035, where he now leads groundbreaking initiatives in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and space research. Demetris shares how he has built international bridges through AI diplomacy and partnerships with nations like the UAE, Japan, and Israel, proving that even a small country can have a big voice in global innovation.You’ll hear how he:✨ Repositioned Cyprus as a strategic innovation hub between Europe, the Middlle   East, and Asia✨ Launched CSPARK, the country’s first space research and innovation centre, in collaboration with NASA and COSPAR✨ Advocates for human-centric AI, ensuring technology serves people and not the other way around✨ Champions inclusive leadership, empowering women in science, technology, and entrepreneurship✨ Operates at what many call “unicorn speed” to turn vision into measurable national transformationRecognised as one of the Top 100 Global Power Leaders and honoured with the CYDIA Impact Award, Demetris embodies servant leadership with ethos, heart, and an unshakable commitment to building a better future for Cyprus and the world.Join us for a conversation that goes beyond science and technology, it’s about vision, leadership, and the power of innovation to transform societies. 🌍🚀

In this heartwarming and inspiring episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I sit down with the multi-talented Laura-Stefania Efthimiou—accountant by profession, biophilic designer by passion, and the creative force behind Design With Moss.Laura shares her extraordinary story, from growing up in post-communist Romania after the loss of her father, to watching her mother courageously move to Cyprus to support the family. Her journey of strength, resilience, and reinvention takes us through marriage, relocation to Ireland, life in London, and ultimately finding a new beginning back in Cyprus—where her artistic soul truly came to life.🌿 In This Episode, We Explore:✨ How Laura turned a hobby into a thriving moss design brand👩‍👦 The bond she shares with her son, her biggest cheerleader and “moss ambassador”🎨 Her background in fine arts and accounting—and how both fuel her creativity and business🌱 The healing power of nature and the science behind biophilic design🌍 Her international life experience—from Romania to Ireland, London, and Cyprus🧘‍♀️ How her Moss Workshops create meaningful, mindful moments for families and individuals📺 Her pivotal live TV appearance that gave her the courage to go all-in on her creative dream💚 Why moss art is more than decor—it’s a return to calm, connection, and creative flow🧠 For Listeners Who Are:Passionate about nature, mindfulness, and creativityCurious about turning a side hustle into a soulful businessLooking for motherhood inspiration and balancing art with lifeInterested in how biophilic design enhances well-beingSearching for purpose after life transitions, breakups, or relocationsEager to explore creative entrepreneurship and design as a form of healing✨ About Laura-Stefania Efthimiou:Founder of Design With Moss, Laura-Stefania is a Romanian-born artist and accountant who now calls Cyprus home. With a Master's in Accounting and a deep love for art and nature, she fuses her talents to craft serene moss installations and lead therapeutic moss workshops across the island. Her mission? To inspire calm, connection, and creativity through the natural beauty of moss.https://www.designwithmoss.com/

In this episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I’m joined by the extraordinary Viola Edward, a transcultural psychotherapist, award-winning mentor, conscious business consultant, and an unstoppable force for global empowerment.From escaping war-torn Lebanon at the age of 13 to becoming a leading voice in emotional resilience, conscious leadership, and breathwork, Viola's story is one of profound transformation and boundless compassion. Her journey is not just about survival, it’s about turning hardship into healing, and purpose into power.Viola is the co-founder and CEO of GRIT Academy, honorary president of Charity on Wheels – Fashion for a Cause, co-creator of BQ – Breath Intelligence, and the visionary behind the GRIT Method and Direction by Emotions. She is also the president of Global Mentoring Network, where she uplifts women, leaders, and changemakers through mentorship, education, and emotional empowerment. She is also a Creative Women Board Member.🌟 In This Episode, Viola Shares:🌍 Her incredible migration story from Lebanon to Venezuela and how it shaped her values💡 The life lessons that fueled her mission to help others heal, rise, and thrive🌀 The power of conscious breathing and how breathwork transformed her life👥 Why mentorship and emotional intelligence are vital tools for future leadership💼 Her work in holistic business consultancy and creating inclusive corporate cultures🧠 Why she believes emotional efficiency and healing modalities belong in every workplace📖 The passion behind authoring and co-authoring over 20 books on wellness and leadership❤️ Her philosophy: “Love, belief in humanity, and being action-oriented”🌱 Perfect For Listeners Who:Are navigating personal or professional transformationBelieve in the power of mentorship, breath, and gritWant to lead with heart, soul, and emotional intelligenceAre looking for ways to fuse healing with leadershipAre inspired by stories of global impact, resilience, and conscious entrepreneurship✨ About Viola Edward:An Iraqi born, Lebanese-childhood, Venezuela-raised, living in Cyprus changemaker, Viola Edward is a global speaker, serial entrepreneur, and soulful leader whose life mission is to serve humanity with love, breath, and purpose. She integrates breathwork, psychotherapy, and business strategy to help individuals and organizations evolve into their highest potential—sustainably and systemically.https://gritacademy.co/bq-en/https://gritacademy.co/bq-espanol/

In this deeply moving and multifaceted episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I’m joined by Andreas Athinodorou—a man who bridges the world of high-level international finance and heartfelt community leadership.As the Founder and CEO of ATG Funds, Andreas brings over 30 years of international experience in corporate finance, global asset management, and investment structuring. But beyond the spreadsheets and boardrooms lies a soul deeply connected to Cyprus, its people, and its history.We talk about the story of the Kyrenia Nautical Club, originally based in Kyrenia until the Turkish invasion of 1974 forced its exile. In 1982, it was re-established in Limassol, where Andreas, an accountant with a spiritual heart, is helping shape its next chapter.Andreas shares the incredible initiatives of the club, including the annual 25-mile kayaking event from the Mari Naval Base to Limassol, honoring the fallen heroes of the Mari tragedy in 2011. With over 100 paddlers—young and old—this event represents far more than sport; it’s a powerful expression of remembrance, resilience, and unity.🌊 In This Episode, We Explore:🧭 Andreas’s journey from finance to philanthropy🏦 His international career in corporate finance and fund management🇨🇾 The historical legacy of the Kyrenia Nautical Club and its exile🚣 The club’s mission to empower youth through rowing, kayaking, and values🔥 The annual tribute to the Mari Naval Base heroes and the meaning behind it🌱 Plans for expanding accessibility, especially for paddlers in wheelchairs🌍 How the club fosters inclusion, courage, and connection—within Cyprus and beyond💡 Why sport is not just an activity, but a vehicle for freedom and collective memory✨ About Andreas Athinodorou:A seasoned financial professional and the CEO of ATG Funds, Andreas Athinodorou is also a passionate advocate for social responsibility, historical remembrance, and youth empowerment. With deep roots in Cyprus and a spiritual outlook on life, Andreas brings clarity, compassion, and conviction to every endeavor—whether he's advising clients or mentoring young athletes at sea.📌 Perfect for Listeners Who:Are inspired by stories of resilience, community, and historical remembranceWant to understand how finance and philanthropy can co-exist meaningfullyBelieve in the power of sports to unite, heal, and inspire future generationsAre curious about Cyprus’s rich history and its ongoing quest for justice and peaceTo find out more about the Kyrenia Nautical Club visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/canoenok or Instagram page https://www.instagram.com/kyrenia_canoe_n_kayak_team/You can read more about NOK’s work and how to contribute here: NOK Brochure 2025

In this forward-thinking episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I talk to the brilliant and multifaceted Andrew Coudounaris—a South African-born entrepreneur, innovator, and Co-Founder of Onyx Radio and Onyx Media Tech. Now based in Cyprus, Andrew brings a global perspective, a passion for media technology, and an unwavering drive to create meaningful, immersive experiences through sound and screen.We talk about his inspiring journey—from growing up in South Africa to building a home and business in Cyprus, and how his cultural background has influenced his entrepreneurial path. Andrew shares insights into the founding of Onyx Media Tech in 2012 and how it quickly evolved into a global player in the media innovation space.With divisions like Onyx-Glass, Onyx Screen Media, and the cutting-edge Onyx Radio, Andrew and his team are not just imagining the future—they're building it. Whether it's reshaping how we interact with retail environments, rethinking digital signage, or redefining music streaming, Andrew is leading a movement rooted in passion, creativity, and technology.🎧 In This Episode, We Talk About:🌍 Andrew’s journey from South Africa to Cyprus, and what home means to him today💡 The story behind Onyx Media Tech and its explosive global growth📻 How Onyx Radio is creating personalized, curated sound experiences🖥️ The power of interactive media and digital signage in today’s world🚀 The role of R&D and innovation in staying ahead in a fast-moving industry🎶 Why music, technology, and storytelling are more connected than ever💬 The importance of resilience, reinvention, and staying curious as a modern entrepreneur✨ About Andrew Coudounaris:Andrew Coudounaris is a tech visionary and entrepreneur with a passion for pushing boundaries. As Co-Founder of Onyx Radio and Onyx Media Tech, he has played a key role in delivering next-generation solutions to some of the world’s biggest brands. Known for his global mindset, creative approach, and ability to stay ahead of trends, Andrew’s work spans continents and industries, inspiring others to think bigger and bolder.📌 Perfect for Listeners Who:Love stories of innovation, entrepreneurship, and global transitionsAre curious about the intersection of technology, music, and mediaWant a behind-the-scenes look at building cutting-edge companiesAre ready to be inspired by someone who lives boldly and creates fearlessly🎧 Tune in and discover how Andrew Coudounaris is turning technology into art—and dreams into immersive digital realities.

In this inspiring episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I talk to the remarkable Larisa Miller, a powerhouse entrepreneur, global strategist, and visionary leader who is reshaping the way we do business across the world.Born on a farm in Hershey County, Pennsylvania, Larisa’s journey from rural beginnings to global boardrooms is nothing short of extraordinary. We explore her deep Hungarian roots, and how Budapest remains her soul’s recharge station, offering not just beauty, but a profound connection to heritage, strength, and self-renewal.Now the Founder and CEO of Phoenix Global and AIR, Larisa shares the philosophies and driving forces behind her bold leadership. Her ability to disrupt traditional business models, craft long-term strategies, and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs has made her one of the most sought-after voices in modern leadership.We talk about her multi-continent impact, working across the USA, UAE, and beyond and how she balances innovation with sustainability. Larisa also opens up about empowering women, developing a disruptive mindset, and making strategic investments that go far beyond capital—supporting vision, transformation, and legacy.🎧 In This Episode, We Talk About:🌿 Larisa’s Hungarian heritage and why Budapest is her soul’s sanctuary🚜 Growing up on a Pennsylvania farm and how her rural roots shaped her leadership style🌍 Leading with vision as CEO of Phoenix Global & AIR, across global markets💡 The importance of purpose-driven disruption in business🎤 Her work as a speaker and author, inspiring change across sectors and continents💪 Empowering women and future leaders through action, not just words📈 How she redefines investment to align with transformation and global progress🔥 The mindset shift needed to lead with courage, compassion, and clarity in uncertain times✨ About Larisa Miller:Larisa Miller is a globally respected entrepreneur, speaker, investor, and transformation strategist. As CEO of Phoenix Global and AIR, she leads organizations across borders with bold, future-ready solutions that prioritize innovation, sustainability, and long-term success. Her ability to inspire, disrupt, and deliver results has positioned her as a trusted advisor and thought leader across multiple industries.📌 Perfect for Listeners Who:Love stories of global leadership and courageous transformationWant practical insights on disrupting the status quo and leading with purposeAre passionate about women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, and future-forward thinkingSeek inspiration to turn roots into wings—from humble beginnings to global influence🎧 Tune in to hear how Larisa Miller combines heritage, heart, and high-impact leadership to shape the future—one empowered decision at a time.

In this episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I’m joined by legendary Australian broadcaster George Donikian, a man whose voice has shaped newsrooms across three national TV networks and whose story is as rich as the cultures he proudly represents.We dive into George’s Greek-Armenian roots, growing up in Sydney speaking Greek, Armenian, and Turkish before learning English at the age of seven. He reflects on his father’s journey from Athens to Australia, the early challenges of migration, and the deeply personal moment when his father, despite his reservations, drove with him to Queensland to support the start of his television career.George shares candid memories of being encouraged to change his name in radio, navigating identity in Australian media, and the importance of staying true to your cultural heritage. We also share a mutual love for the Middle East, Armenia, and the deep beauty found in ancient cultures that are too often misunderstood.From soccer dreams and shoulder injuries to breaking barriers in multicultural broadcasting, this conversation is rich with wisdom, resilience, and insight. George opens up about the importance of representation, the stories behind his television rise, and the power of vulnerability when carving a public path.🎧 In This Episode, We Talk About:🧬 The impact of George’s Greek-Armenian heritage and his trilingual upbringing🚘 A father’s quiet act of love—supporting George’s unlikely career in television🎙️ His early radio days and being asked to anglicize his surname for ‘audience comfort’📺 Breaking new ground with SBS World News, Nine Network, and Ten News🌍 Why we both love the Middle East, Armenia, and the beauty of ancient cultures🎤 What it takes to hold space as a public voice across decades of changing media🗣️ The importance of authenticity, identity, and finding your voice in a noisy world✨ About George Donikian:George Donikian is an Australian media icon with a career spanning radio, television, and public speaking. Born in Sydney to Greek-Armenian parents, George brought a global voice to Australian newsrooms through his work with SBS, the Nine Network, and Network Ten. Known for his gravitas, warmth, and multicultural insight, George has also worked as a documentary host, MC, speaker, and media trainer—empowering others to find their voice in the modern media landscape.📌 Connect with George Donikian:Website: donikianmedia.com.auLinkedIn: George Donikian

In this episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I talk with the brave and inspiring Tsvety Roo, a digital nomad, solo traveler, and soul searcher who’s turned the world into both her home and her teacher.Once thriving in a high-powered career at a New York City agency, Tsvety made a radical shift: she gave it all up to embrace minimalism and nomadic living. With nothing but a backpack and an open heart, she has spent the past two years journeying through 22 countries and 37 destinations, redefining what it means to belong and what it means to be truly connected.✨ In this episode, we talk about:• The rising epidemic of loneliness in a hyperconnected world• How solo travel can lead to deeper connection with others and with yourself• The powerful moment she chose to walk away from a “secure” life that no longer felt  fulfilling• The challenges and beauty of living without a permanent home• The freedom that comes when you realize you always have a choice• Lessons learned from meaningful connections with strangers across the globeTsvety shares her powerful personal transformation, from feeling stuck and isolated to creating a life of purpose, freedom, and authentic connection. Her journey is a reminder that sometimes, the scariest steps we take are the ones that lead us back to ourselves.🌍 Whether you’re dreaming of solo travel or seeking a life of more meaning and less ‘stuff,’ this conversation will stir your spirit and challenge your comfort zone.📌 Connect with Tsvety RooInstagram and Websitehttps://www.instagram.com/tsvetyroo?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.tsvetyroo.com/💬 “We think we have no choice—but freedom often begins with one brave decision.” – Tsvety Roo

In this deeply moving episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I speak with a remarkable woman whose life story reads like a journey from suppression to soulful awakening.Born and raised in Czechoslovakia, behind the borders of the Western world, her early years were shaped by the restrictions of life before the Velvet Revolution. But it was in the aftermath of political transformation that another, more personal revolution began—one of intuition, healing, and empowerment.✨ In this episode, we explore:• What life was like behind the Iron Curtain• How she discovered she was born intuitive and deeply empathetic• The synchronistic events that led her to manifest a life by the sea in Cyprus• Her journey through heartbreak, loss, and the healing power of inner work• Why emotional trauma lives in the body—and how it affects our health and  relationships• How she now helps women heal through somatic therapy, quantum energy work,  and NLPHer story is not just about healing—it’s about remembering who you truly are and reclaiming your power after pain. Through the wisdom of her own experience, she now guides other women to live emotionally healthy, embodied, and fulfilled lives.🌀 Whether you’re navigating emotional pain, seeking your purpose, or simply love stories of resilience and transformation, this episode will touch your heart and awaken your soul.💫 Her WorkSpecializing in mind-body healing, she empowers women to release stored trauma, awaken their intuition, and live with clarity, joy, and connection.

In this vibrant and heartwarming episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I talk with the charismatic and passionate Tonia Buxton—British TV presenter, restaurateur, author, and proud ambassador of Greek Cypriot culture.We dive into a rich conversation about life, family, Cyprus, and how Tonia followed her passion to become a global voice for Cypriot food and heritage. From the vibrant dishes of My Greek Kitchen to the stories of how it all happened Tonia shares how her love for history, health, and culture has shaped her journey.✨ We also talk about:• The deep connection between food and identity• Tonia’s inspiring views on healthy aging• What it’s like raising strong, creative children—including supporting her daughter    Antigoni’s dreams• How she blends tradition with modern wellness• Her experiences on Discovery Channel Travel & Living, Good Morning Britain,    This Morning, and Sunday BrunchTonia’s energy is contagious and her stories are filled with flavour—both literally and figuratively. This episode is a celebration of heritage, passion, and purpose.🎧 Tune in to hear about:• The bravery of Achilles and the wisdom of Socrates (yes, we go there!)• What drives a woman to represent her roots with such flair• How to live fully and fabulously—at any age💫 Whether you’re a foodie, history lover, or just in need of some serious inspiration, this one’s for you.🔗 Connect with Tonia BuxtonWebsite | Instagram | Bookshttps://www.toniabuxton.co.uk/https://www.instagram.com/toniabuxtonhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Books-Tonia-Buxton/s?rh=n%3A266239%2Cp_27%3ATonia%2BBuxton📚 Tonia is the author of five books on food, health, and holistic living, and her shows have aired in over 30 countries. Her story is proof that when you mix passion with purpose, magic happens.