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When Dia Drossos first stepped foot into the United Nations Headquarters, she felt the gravity of the location, what it stands for, and the important work conducted on its grounds.
“Standing in the U.N. headquarters in New York makes you feel unstoppable and empowered,” Dia says.
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America’s Girl Delegates to the United Nations program provided Dia the opportunity to enter the walls of the U.N., but also allowed her to represent her religious and cultural values on a global stage.
The program, founded by Niki Devaris-Morgulis and operating through the Archdiocese’s Department of Inter-Orthodox, Ecumenical, and Interfaith Relations, allows Greek Orthodox high-school girls to utilize their unique talents and uplift them to go forth and become the next generation of change-makers and peace-builders.
Dia now attends Boston College, where she majors in International Studies and minors in philosophy and theology; she also figure skates for the school. She is originally from Chicago, and attends Ascension of Our Lord Greek Orthodox Church in Lincolnshire, Illinois when she is home.
Curious about the challenges women face worldwide, Dia was inspired to join the Girl Delegates program because she wished to advocate for girls and women who do not have the same access to education she does.
“I have gained a more holistic perspective on life since joining this program,” Dia says. “The networking opportunities that take place on U.N. grounds are unlike any other, because everyone around you is so driven to make change.”
Dia’s faith drives her advocacy goals, and she is keen to show others at the U.N. and in her everyday life how empowering the Greek Orthodox faith is.
By offering her opportunities for a new perspective, the Girl Delegates program prepared Dia for her college studies and laid the groundwork for her future professional career. She was able to connect with representatives from the Cypriot government, the Soccer Unity Project (a non-governmental organization [NGO] based in Boston), and other diplomats and advocates.
As a Girl Delegate, Dia solidified her passion for international relations, and feels humbled that she could use her voice on behalf of the Archdiocese and alongside other Greek Orthodox girls.
Dia also highlights the importance of woman-to-woman support and guidance. “Mentors like Niki Devaris-Morgulis continue to empower me,” she says.
Likewise, the relationships she built with fellow Girl Delegates continue to have a positive influence on her life.
“Being a teenage girl can be so uncomfortable and confusing, but being surrounded by an environment where we are put forward and empowered changed the way I see myself and the way I see my peers,” Dia says. “The girls in this program continue to inspire me and are some of the people that I rely on when making key decisions in my life.”
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