Project Connect, the non-profit organization dedicated to youth empowerment and maritime education, successfully held its annual “KICK START THE NEW YEAR” event on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.

Emphasizing this year’s theme, “FOCUS & ACTION,” the event took place in a dynamic “phygital” (physical and digital) format, hosted by Athens College – Bodosakeio in Kantza, Pallini, one of the first seven schools to enroll in Project Connect’s Adopt a Ship program, in presence of U.S. Ambassador to Greece, George J. Tsunis. Present at the event were, also, among others President of Athens College, Dr Pollalis and Mr Kalogeras, Athens College Elementary School Principal.
Mr. Chrysostomos Lefteratos, a dedicated Athens College teacher and one of the first educators to adopt the Adopt a Ship program, warmly welcomed students and guests. Athens College has been a consistent participant since the program’s introduction to Greek classrooms in January 2019. Mr. Lefteratos showcased a video highlighting students' shipping-related projects, and he also presented a heartwarming reading of an e-mail exchange between a student and a ship captain, emphasizing the unique interaction at the program’s core. Two students, wearing captain’s hats provided by Project Connect, read aloud a letter exchanged between a Maran Tankers vessel and an elementary class in Davlia, Central Greece.
Mr. John Xylas, Union of Greek Shipowners’ representative/Treasurer, Founding Member of Project Connect, shipowner, and recently elected Chairman of INTERCARGO, praised the program for bridging Greek Shipping with the classroom:
“We are grateful to the teachers for their dedication. Through ‘Adopt a Ship,’ students truly grasp the value of the seafarer’s profession, and they learn practical skills along the way.”
Dr. Adamantia Spanaka, Project Connect’s Educators Consultant, guided the attendees through the key elements of the Adopt a Ship initiative. She explained how the program fosters interdisciplinary learning by using captains' responses as the basis for lessons in geography, English writing, literature, history, and more, illustrating the program's practical learning opportunities.
Project Connect’s Founder & Director, Ms. Irene Notias, welcomed and expressed her gratitude for the Ambassador’s attendance:
“We feel so fortunate that the Ambassador chose to address our young minds today, in one of his last public interaction to his post. His passion and commitment set a wonderful example—focus, action, effort, and love for one’s country can take anyone a long way forward. This is truly an inspiring way to start the New Year.”
U.S. Ambassador to Greece, George J. Tsunis, during his keynote speech shared his personal journey—rooted in Greek heritage—on becoming an Ambassador and underscored the importance of shipping to the global economy and to Greece. His address reached 2,185 pupils and 108 teachers from 51 elementary, 19 secondary schools, and 8 Nautical Vocational High Schools (EPAL) across Greece, as well as participating schools in Florida, USA.
In total, more than 4,200 pupils in 222 classes are enrolled in the Adopt a Ship program this school year. The pupils that missed this event will have a chance to view the recorded version.
“They are lucky to have the ‘Adopt a Ship’ program in their schools,” remarked Ambassador Tsunis. “My hope is that each of you will be inspired to pursue your dreams.”
Project Connect presented the Ambassador with handcrafted nautical gifts made by pupils of the 45th Elementary School of Thessaloniki, commemorating his involvement.
The day concluded with uplifting and motivational sessions anchored by the theme “Focus & Action”. Life coach Michalis Fragkiadakis (FOS Breakthrough) led an engaging talk, “Opinion & Knowledge: Breaking Illusions,” encouraging students to challenge assumptions and explore personal growth. Dr. John Kalogerakis closed the event with “Kick Start the New Year with FOCUS & ACTION,” energizing everyone to pursue their New Year’s resolutions with confidence and determination.
This year, is the NPO’s 10th year anniversary and there will be many special events coming up.

Watch the 1st part of the event on Project Connect's Youtube channel here.