ATHENS – [Photos by Capital Link]
The “Capital Link Sustainability Forum,” titled “Public & Private Sectors: A Shared Vision for Sustainability” was successfully held for the 16th consecutive year attracting significant participation confirming its role as one of the most significant forums for dialogue on sustainable development in Greece, highlighting the crucial role of cooperation between the State, businesses, and society in shaping a sustainable development model.
The Forum was held on May 26, at the Divani Caravel Hotel in Athens, under the auspices of the SEV Hellenic Federation of Enterprises and CSR Hellas, with the participation of high-level representatives from the government, the business community, international organizations, and institutions.
Panel discussions and interventions underscored the critical importance of strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors to shape a modern, resilient, and sustainable development framework capable of effectively responding to the economic, social, and environmental challenges of today’s world. Special focus was given to the role of responsible entrepreneurship, innovation, and investments that generate positive social and environmental impact, while also highlighting the growing importance of integrating ESG principles into the strategic planning and operations of organizations and businesses.
The Forum concluded with the presentation of the “2026 Capital Link Sustainability Leadership Award” to Alexandra Palli-Giannakopoulou, Deputy Regional Governor for Entrepreneurship & European Programming, Attica Region, and Chair of CSR Hellas, in recognition of her long-standing and substantial contribution to the promotion of responsible business practices, sustainable development, and the integration of ESG principles in Greece and internationally.
The award was presented by the President of the Hellenic Parliament, Nikitas Kaklamanis, conferring special prestige and deep symbolic significance to the award, while also highlighting the importance of Palli-Giannakopoulou’s contribution and work in the field of sustainability and socially responsible development.
In his heartfelt speech, the President of the Hellenic Parliament, stated, inter alia, that “Alexandra Palli-Giannakopoulou possesses business experience, institutional consistency, a European presence, and social sensitivity, combining economic acumen with responsibility and social cohesion with respect for the environment”.
“But beyond her education and professional career, she is above all a mother of four and a woman who has successfully balanced family life with a particularly dynamic and meaningful presence in the public and business spheres. At a time when demographics represent one of the most significant challenges for our country, her personal journey takes on even greater value and symbolism”, Kaklamanis said, congratulating the honoree “for building a family alongside a successful professional pursuit. You absolutely deserve today’s award”
The honoree was introduced by Nicolas Bornozis, President of Capital Link, and Olga Bornozi, the company’s Managing Director.
In their short address, they noted among other things, that “with vision, dynamic leadership, and deep commitment to the principles of corporate social responsibility, Alexandra Palli-Giannakopoulou has established herself as one of the most influential figures in the field of sustainable entrepreneurship, actively contributing to the shaping of a modern culture that links economic growth with social cohesion, environmental responsibility, and the creation of long-term value for society.
As Chair of the Board of CSR Hellas, she plays a decisive role in strengthening the organization’s mission and influence, establishing it as a key institutional pillar for the promotion of corporate social responsibility and modern sustainable development practices in Greece. Under her leadership, CSR Hellas has evolved into a significant platform for collaboration and dialogue among businesses, institutions, and civil society, while contributing to strengthening Greece’s international presence in the field of sustainable entrepreneurship. Through her work and her vision, she inspires organizations and new generations of leaders to adopt practices that combine economic growth with a positive social and environmental impact.
Her overall contribution extends beyond her institutional role: Ms. Palli-Giannakopoulou is a shining example of leadership and responsibility, inspiring current and future generations of entrepreneurs and leaders to adopt a development model that creates long-term, sustainable value for the economy, society, and the environment”.
The screening of a special video dedicated to the honoree’s career and work followed.
Upon receiving the award, Alexandra Palli-Giannakopoulou warmly thanked the organizers and spoke about the importance of collective effort, cooperation, and an ongoing commitment to a more sustainable future.
Referring to Capital Link, she said that “it does not merely offer exceptional conference organization. Through consistency and perseverance, it has built bridges of communication between Greece and the international business and investment community and has opened a steady and meaningful dialogue on the future of the economy and entrepreneurship in our country”.
Regarding the award, she noted that “it is not merely recognition of an effort. It also serves as a reminder that growth has value only when it has a meaningful and measurable impact on society, the environment, and people”.
“Today, through my role in the Attica Region, as Deputy Regional Governor for Entrepreneurship and European Programming, I support the need for tools and policies to reach businesses, local communities and people, where development is tested in practice. Different paths, which in the end all return to the same values”, she added.
“I see this award as a commitment to continue working for a more responsible entrepreneurship, for institutions more open to cooperation, for a development that is not measured only by numbers, but also by the footprint it leaves,” Palli-Giannakopoulou said. “The award marks the beginning of a deeper responsibility and continuity and not the end of the journey! Again, I warmly thank Olga and Nikos Bornozis and all of you who are here today and honor me”.
