7 Successful Cypriots Living Abroad
Celebrating Global Success Stories of the Cypriot Diaspora
Cyprus has produced numerous successful individuals who have made significant impacts globally. These Cypriots, known for their exceptional achievements, have excelled in various fields including business, entertainment, and sports.
Here’s a list of seven successful Cypriots of the diaspora:
Field: Business
Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou is the founder of easyJet, one of the most successful low-cost airlines in Europe. Born in Greece to a Cypriot family, he has expanded his easyGroup brand into various sectors, including hotels, gyms, and car rentals. Stelios is also known for his philanthropic efforts through the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation, which supports education, entrepreneurship, and environmental initiatives.
Field: Tennis
Achievements: Australian Open finalist (2006), Wimbledon semi-finalist (2006)
Marcos Baghdatis is a retired professional tennis player who achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 8. He gained international fame with his energetic playing style and significant performances in major tournaments, particularly in the 2006 Australian Open where he reached the final.
Field: Business
Theo Paphitis is a British retail magnate and entrepreneur of Cypriot origin. He is best known for his appearances on the BBC business program "Dragon's Den" where he invested in numerous startups. Paphitis has revitalized several retail chains, including Ryman and Robert Dyas.
Field: Law and Business
Achievements: CEO of a major insurance company in Australia
George Savvides is a notable Cypriot-Australian businessman known for his leadership in the healthcare and insurance sectors. He has held top executive positions in several large companies and is recognized for his contributions to business and community services in Australia.
Field: Real Estate
Andreas Panayiotou is a prominent British property developer of Cypriot descent. He is the founder of the Ability Group, a large property company that owns and manages numerous residential and commercial properties in the UK. Panayiotou is known for his significant impact on the real estate market.
Field: Shipping
Marios Iliopoulos is a successful shipping magnate of Cypriot origin, known for his substantial influence in the maritime industry. He has built a robust portfolio of shipping enterprises and continues to be a key figure in global shipping.
Field: Modeling
Sophia Hadjipanteli is a Cypriot-American model and social media influencer. She has gained fame for her distinctive look and has been a prominent figure in promoting body positivity and challenging beauty standards in the fashion industry.