The Greek Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Southern Africa, KZN Region, held its Annual Gala Dinner on the 18th March 2000 at the Community Hall in Durban North. the event was successful and well attended by heads of the State and Region as well as members of the diplomatic corp.

The evening was put together by our famous Greek entertainer, Mr. Themis Ventouras.

Guest speaker was the prominent Greek advocate George Bizos who mentioned the progress and contribution that Hellenisim in South Africa had made towards the social and economic development of this country. The Greek Chamber of Commerce handed a cheque for R10 000,00 to advocate G. Bizos for The Nelson Mandela's Children Fund.

This year the Chamber honoured seven Hellenes from the region -

• Young Entrepreneur of the Year - Dimitros Galanakis who started his own business, Micropack, (to import & wholesale to computer dealers) only 11 years ago and now supplies more than 1000 dealers nation wide, including an office in the UK and two other local companies.
• The Cultural Award - Diamond Bozas, retired artist whose paintings have been acquired by art galleries within South Africa as well as in the UK. He is also recognised as an international flower arranger, judge and demonstrator. Mr. Bozas might be retired, but he is still actively involved in the arts, not only in the region but nationally.
• Community Award - Mr. & Mrs. A. Tselentis, what can be said about this family who have always assisted, promoted and contributed to Hellenes in the community as well as the KZN Region and are still continuing to do so.
• Academic Award - Stavros Stavrou, development policy analysis, social, economic and marketing research not only in this country but other countries of the world.
• Business Enterprise - Nick Christodoulou, who has developed Kokstad and is still continuing to build and create employment.
• Life Time Achievement - Mr. DP Syrris (late) Born 1908 in Samos joined the trading house of Ralli Brothers of London and was sent to India where he stayed for 24 years. In 1956 he emigrated to SA and after various entrepreneurial businesses in Johannesburg, he moved to Durban in 1966 and started a shipping concern - Pandora Maritime, known today as "Panafco Maritime" with agencies in all South African ports.
• Environmental Award - Dr. N. Zaloumas not only a good dentist, but also world famous environmentalist, second only to Ian Player.

We sincerely thank all who contributed to the successful evening, especially our sponsors and our members. Particular mention should be made to our friends for their understanding of any inconvenience caused during arrival and seating of the tables. We can only learn and improve from our mistakes.

REGIONAL COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEMBERS