CDU appoints first Greek studies ambassador

A world-renowned Greek artist with a passion for music has been appointed as Charles Darwin University’s first ambassador for its Greek studies program.

Nikos Kourkoulis said he would use his appointment to promote the program, including during upcoming music performances to thousands of people across Australia and overseas.

Mr Kourkoulis moved to Darwin earlier this year with his wife and two children and said both the Greek and wider communities had helped the family feel at home.

“For some people Darwin is the end of Australia, but for me it is the beginning,” he said.

“I can do something and start something here that I am very passionate about.”

Mr Kourkoulis has released more than 10 albums during more than 30 years and plans to perform around Australia before beginning his United States tour in 2016. 

He said the largely Greek audiences who attended his concerts would likely be interested to find out about the Greek studies program.

Mr Kourkoulis has rich ties with CDU and has invited students on the CDU Greek In-Country Language Program to visit his Greek home town of Kavala during the program. The town was also home to the king of the ancient Greek kingdom of Macedon, Philip II of Macedon, who was also the father of Alexander the Great.

Mr Kourkoulis was appointed as CDU’s Greek studies ambassador after the CDU Foundation Guardians of Greek Language and Culture received approval from the CDU Foundation Board.