The Greek Experience Team

Marianna Michalitsianou

Founder - Public Relations & Program Director

A seasoned communications professional with a diverse background. She holds a degree in Communications Media & Culture from Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences. Marianna has conducted research on Leadership Development & Training and was a member of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC). Her expertise spans International transportation and Trade, Business Management, Media, and Event Organizing. Marianna's passion for community service led her to co-found the local volunteer group Pire-Active, focusing on environmental and philanthropic initiatives. She has volunteered for cultural and media organizations and held key roles such as General Manager at Agape Greek Radio and Director of Sales & Marketing for the Greek International Film Festival Tour of Canada. As the Founder of Empiria World Inc., Marianna demonstrates a strong entrepreneurial mindset, operating online cultural platforms such as Empiria Greece and Empiria Events for global Greek communities. She is the visionary behind The Greek Experience event, showcasing the richness of Greek culture. Marianna thrives on teamwork, collaborating with like-minded individuals to bring creative projects to life and make a positive impact on communities worldwide. Currently also serving as a Senior Consultant at Integrated Consulting Services (ICS), she excels in strategic consulting and cultural advocacy.

Vasia Argyris

Food & Hospitality Director

Boasting over 25 years of experience in the Food & Beverage industry and Corporate Restaurant Management, Vasia is a highly accomplished professional in the culinary field. As the owner of multiple food & beverage businesses, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. Vasia is also the owner of the Niagara Adult Learning Center, highlighting her dedication to education and community development. With a passion for helping others achieve their potential, Vasia excels in mentoring, coaching, and supporting individuals. Her event planning expertise, refined over a decade, has been pivotal in organizing successful events. A graduate of the University of Toronto, Vasia has a rich professional history with renowned organizations such as Starbucks in Greece, Shopsys, Good Life Fitness Clubs, and the iconic Constellation Hotel, where she has made a significant impact. Throughout her career, Vasia has served over 1 million people, raised substantial funds for various causes, and actively engaged in civic activities supporting organizations like the United Way and Habitat for Humanity, embodying her commitment to giving back to the community. Currently serving as a Sales representative at RE/MAX Real Estate Centre Inc., Vasia continues to leverage her diverse skill set and experience to make a positive difference in both professional and community endeavors.

Denise Georgiou Newell

Tourism & culture Director

Founder & Curator at Travels Jubilee. Denise Georgiou-Newell boasts over 15 years of experience as a certified travel counselor and destination expert. Renowned for her consulting and intuitive approach with her clients, she ensures personalized, concierge-style service, establishing herself as a respected leader in the travel industry. She & her team, having explored over 80 cities in 25 countries, offer meticulously vetted travel recommendations. Denise’s specialties include culinary tours, romance travel, destination weddings, family and multigenerational travel, bucket list adventures, and health and wellness retreats. These focus areas allow her to craft memorable journeys tailored to each client’s vision. Currently, Denise is excited about having her coordinating side shine as part of the team of The Greek experience which will premiere on October 5, 2024. This innovative event aligns with her passion for linking Canadian travel enthusiasts with the Greek market, leveraging her expertise to enhance cultural connections. Her long-term commitment to this project underscores her dedication to enriching the travel landscape and creating meaningful tourism experiences. Denise’s vision for travel transcends ordinary tourism, fostering deep, transformative encounters for her clients.

Gina Skagos

Business Relations Director

A Certified Professional Accountant with a delectable twist! Renowned for her expertise in the world of boutique taxes, Gina is the maestro of selective sin taxes including wine, spirits, tobacco, and cigars. She stands as the proud recipient of prestigious awards including the coveted CIO Award in Canada, Amethyst and Applause Awards in Ontario. Gina has a burning passion for fostering international trade between Greece and Canada. As a former Board of Director with the Hellenic Canadian Board of Trade, in 2016 the team pioneered a trade mission with Canadian businesses to Greece orchestrating a symphony of collaboration and B2B engagements with Eurobank and several internationally acclaimed brands at the FoodExpo in Athens, Greece. Several of which are coveted and prominently displayed on store shelves. Gina's talents extend far beyond the boardroom. Not only a connoisseur behind the numbers, but she’s also a culinary aficionado in the kitchen having been trained as a chef at none other than George Brown College, Canada's premier culinary arts school.