Minister of the Year
The award goes to Finance Minister Makis Keravnos, who inspires confidence in the market regarding economic management despite significant increases in government fixed expenses, particularly payroll. Due to his age and experience, Keravnos is also considered the “coolest” minister in the government, known for using humour - even to troll his critics - while emphasising his willingness to resign if it would make others feel more comfortable. Memorable quotes include: “I’m not a magician, I’m the Finance Minister,” “We budget at home too, not just in the state,” and “inflation doesn’t obey ministerial circulars.”
Deputy Minister of the Year
Cyprus’s Deputy Minister of Shipping, Marina Hadjimanoli, is a low-key yet highly successful figure in her role, particularly in promoting and enhancing Cyprus’s position in the international shipping community. In 2024, she was named Shipping Personality of the Year by the International Propeller Club in the US - the first Cypriot to receive this prestigious award. She has represented Cyprus at major international forums, including the IMO General Assembly, and played a key role in developing the national cruise tourism strategy and preparing the EU Council agenda for Cyprus’s presidency, focusing on sustainability and innovation in shipping. She emphasises that the success of Cypriot shipping depends on strong public-private sector collaboration, which she has actively promoted.
MEP of the Year
The award goes unanimously to MEP Michalis Hadjipantelas, who distinguished himself in the European Parliament through his expertise and diligence. His proposal for joint procurement of medicines among EU member states was approved by the Public Health Committee (SANT), aiming to strengthen the supply and security of medicines such as antibiotics, vaccines, and insulin. He is an active member of key committees including Economic and Monetary Affairs, Public Health, and Taxation, showing his broad influence. He has also served as rapporteur on issues such as tax competitiveness and adaptive fund allocation. His nomination for “Best Newly Elected MEP” at the 2025 MEP Awards highlights his growing international recognition.
MP of the Year
Alexandra Attalidou is one of the most active, determined, and multifaceted members of Parliament. She stands out for her consistency, social awareness, and unwavering commitment to human rights, transparency, and fighting corruption. Through her work on parliamentary committees, she has systematically highlighted institutional issues and public administration malpractices. She has been instrumental in passing legislation on the “Source of Wealth” control for the Attorney General, Deputy Attorney General, and judiciary, strengthening accountability at the highest institutional level. She has also championed reforms to end lifetime benefits for former Presidents of the Republic and Parliament, and persistently exposed the “golden passports” scandal. A relentless opponent of corruption, her empathy and principled approach make her voice not just different but essential.
Company of the Year
The banking sector deserves the award. After a decade of struggling, Cypriot banks now attract investors and aim to catalyse a broader opening of the economy to Eastern markets. A stronger, outward-looking banking system can better support Cypriot businesses and households. In the first half of the year, net new loans reached €1 billion, nearly matching the total funding of the Recovery Fund (€1.2 billion).
Entrepreneur of the Year
The award goes to Stelios Hatziioannou. In 2025, he continued to support young Cypriot entrepreneurs through the Stelios Awards and the Bi-Communal Awards, fostering Greek-Cypriot and Turkish-Cypriot collaboration. The Stelios Awards offered a total prize of €200,000, a record number of participants (77 applications), and the Bi-Communal Awards provided €410,000 to 96 entrepreneurs forming 48 joint teams. Hatziioannou’s “quiet” initiatives leave a lasting impact, promoting creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and bi-communal cooperation.
Scientist of the Year
The award goes to Dr. Loizos Loizou. International oncology platform OncoDaily included him in its 2025 list of the 100 most influential people in oncology, recognising his long-standing contribution to paediatric oncology, international collaboration, and reducing healthcare inequalities. According to the ELPIIDA Foundation, the award reflects global recognition of a Cypriot model of scientific, social, and humanitarian work developed over decades with consistency, cooperation, and vision. Professor Loizou pioneered paediatric oncology services in Cyprus since 1990, contributing to high childhood cancer survival rates and establishing modern care standards for young patients.
Artist of the Year
Alkinoos Ioannides remained a steady reference point for contemporary Cypriot and Greek culture, not only through music but through his overall public presence. With concerts as collective experiences and clear, unambiguous expression, he proves that art can remain demanding yet profoundly human. In an age of fast consumption and fleeting memory, his consistent work and socially conscious approach stand out, making his cultural voice especially significant.
Journalist of the Year
Eleni Vretou distinguished herself through the CyBC's Trito Programme 'Proino Dromologio' combining rigorous research, clarity, and institutional courage. Through interviews that delve beneath the surface, she has highlighted issues of power, justice, and social responsibility, avoiding sensationalism. Her work is methodical, fact-driven, and capable of turning complex issues into understandable narratives. She demonstrates that journalism is not just information transmission but a public service, leaving a significant mark over the past year.
Sports Team of the Year
2025 was a landmark year for Pafos FC. The club “grew” and rose to prominence in Cypriot football, winning its first historic championship, entering the Champions League group stages, and continuing to achieve milestones that make Cyprus proud in Europe. The team’s achievements enrich the story of Cypriot football.
This article was originally published on the Greek-language Politis website.