Shemaine Bushnell Kyriakides
The spotlight was on Cypriot sailing champion Pavlos Kontides on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, as he was awarded the prestigious Man of the Year title at the 23rd Bank of Cyprus Man of the Year Awards ceremony. This marks the fourth time that Kontides has claimed the honor, a testament to his continued excellence in sailing, with his achievements serving as a source of inspiration for both Cyprus and the wider international community.
Held at The Royal Hall in Nicosia, the annual event recognized individuals who have made significant contributions across various sectors, shaping Cypriot society and beyond. Kontides’ victory was met with a warm round of applause from the audience, affirming his place as a national icon.
But Kontides wasn't the only star of the night. The ceremony also celebrated two remarkable figures with the Greek of the Year distinction. Pyrros Dimas was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contributions over the years, while Dimitris Papanikolaou received recognition for his tireless work in raising autism awareness.
An emotional moment came when the late musician Stelios Pissis was posthumously awarded, highlighting his resilience and perseverance, which continue to inspire many.
The ceremony, attended by high-profile guests including President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, Speaker of Parliament Annita Demetriou, and several other political, business, and cultural figures, was hosted by Tasos Tryfonos, with musical entertainment provided by singer Kostis Maraveyias. Greek actress Dora Makriyannis served as the ambassador for the awards, promoting the values and legacy of this long-standing institution.
The Bank of Cyprus Man of the Year Awards, founded in 2001, continues to be the largest and most respected awards program in Cyprus, recognizing exceptional men who exemplify vision, ethos, and action across various fields. This year’s awards also highlighted accomplishments in management, sports, science, culture, and social causes, with notable figures like Xenios Konomios, Dr. Michael Mavrovouniotis, and Karolina Pelendritou also receiving accolades.
The event’s success was made possible with the support of various sponsors, including Bank of Cyprus, University of Nicosia, Johnny Walker Whisky, OPAP Cyprus, Alfamega Supermarkets, and others, all of whom contribute to celebrating the pioneering spirit that the awards stand for.
With Pavlos Kontides once again leading the charge as Man of the Year, the ceremony was a fitting tribute to the exceptional individuals who continue to shape Cyprus’ future and inspire generations to come.
See the list of winners below:
1) ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
Adamos Serafidis - The CEO of Fameline Holding Group, was recognized for his extraordinary achievement in guiding a small island nation to a prominent position on the global map, particularly in one of the most demanding and strategically important sectors of the economy. His success, which influences vast financial resources, geopolitics, and international alliances, is seen not only as a business triumph but as a national achievement.
Presenters: Xenios Konomios, Chief Operating Officer of Bank of Cyprus, and Pieris Markou, CEO of Deloitte.
2) ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Pavlos Kontides - Two time Olympic silver medal winner in sailing.
Presenters: Our Paralympian, Karolina Pelendritou, and SPOR FM 95.0 contributor Savvas Kossiaris.
3) SCIENTIST OF THE YEAR
Dr. Michael Mavrovouniotis - Recognized for his outstanding contribution to global knowledge, having been acknowledged by the scientific community as one of the top researchers worldwide. His work in the field of big data has earned him this prestigious recognition.
Presenters: Kyriakos Kokkinos, Ambassador of the Digital Agenda Cyprus Summit, member of the Board of Directors of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology and former Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, together with the Mayor of Nicosia, Charalambos Prountzos.
4) CREATIVITY / CULTURE
Andreas Georgiou - Recognized for his exceptional ability to create worlds that captivate, inspire, and move audiences. As a talented actor, director, and producer, he transforms each of his works into an experience of emotion and lasting memory.
Presenters: Christiana Artemiou and Dimitris Tokaris.
5) INTERNATIONAL CYPRIOT OF THE YEAR
Kleitos Teklos - Recognized for his visionary work, which transcends borders. Through his creative efforts, personal dedication, and commitment, he has written his own remarkable story of success and artistic achievement.
Presenter: The Ambassador of this year's Bank of Cyprus Man of the Year Awards, Dora Makriyannis.
6) UNIVERSITY OF NICOSIA EXCELLENCE AWARD
Nikos Pattichis - Honored for his lifelong dedication to supporting and promoting the fine arts and artists. Through his passion and vision, he has contributed to publications, exhibitions, and cultural activities that have significantly enriched and strengthened the culture.
Presenter: The Senior Vice-Chancellor at the University of Nicosia, Constantinos Fellas.
7) POSTHUMOUS AWARD
Stelios Pissis - Composer
Presenter: George Tsiakkas
8] GREEK OF THE YEAR
Dimitris Papanikolaou - A top athlete of his generation with numerous national, European, and world titles, honored for his bravery in speaking openly about raising his autistic daughter after he had kept it hidden for years.
Presenter: Stella Kyriakides, former Commissioner for Health and Food Safety of the European Union.
9) MAN OF THE YEAR
Pavlos Kontidis
Presenter: President of the Parliament, Annita Demetriou.
10) LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT in memory of Christos Iakovidis
Pyrros Dimas - A three-time Olympic gold medalist recognized for his extraordinary achievements.
Presenter: His Excellency, the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides.
