An Interview with Irene Vantaraki – International Affairs Strategist - Α Mastermind Behind Global Networking
Irene Vantaraki is a pioneering entrepreneur and lobbyist whose vision and determination have earned her international recognition. As the driving force behind "Monaco Day" and the "Greek House" in Davos during the World Economic Forum, Irene has gained a reputation for organizing high-profile events that foster dialogue, innovation, and collaboration. As a single mother who raised her son on her own, Irene's story is one of resilience and perseverance. Through hard work, she managed to establish a successful company that hosts world-class events at the Davos Lodge, bringing together global leaders, politicians, and innovators to tackle critical challenges.
Her leadership in organizing “Monaco Day” reflects her commitment to creating platforms that blend economic excellence, sustainability, and technological advancement. Her passion for meaningful discussions and transformative solutions makes her a dynamic figure and an expert in International Affairs Strategy. As she says with the quote by Theodore Roethke: "What we need are more people who specialize in the impossible."
Irene shares with us her journey, the challenges she has faced, and her goals for the future, offering a unique insight into the values and philosophy that guide her work and life.
How was the idea for Greek House Davos born, and what was the biggest obstacle you faced?
The idea for Greek House Davos was born from a deep personal reflection on the direction we want to take for the future of Greece and the next generations. The need to reshape Greece’s image internationally and strengthen its economic position became my goal as well. Through my travels, I observed entrenched perceptions of our country, often seen as economically weak despite its cultural richness. The biggest obstacle was overcoming these stereotypes. The current reality shows that some companies wield more power than certain nations. This raises concerns about Greece's position on the global stage. Greece needs to strengthen economically while addressing environmental and geopolitical challenges, particularly the environmental crisis that will impact the Mediterranean over the next 30 years. At the same time, it must preserve its identity as a bridge between East and West. Greek House aims to promote a resilient Greece, confident and wise in facing modern challenges.
How does Greek House Davos operate, and what is its vision?
Greek House is a successful international organization that, once again, will bring together prominent business leaders with a focus on Greek issues. However, its distinction is twofold, as it has emerged as one of the most influential business hubs at the annual Davos conference. Its success lies primarily in the exceptional individuals who participate and contribute to the development of innovative approaches and solutions to global issues. Furthermore, the true vision driving Greek House strengthens its ability to influence international developments. By creating a platform where leaders can exchange ideas, Greek House facilitates the dissemination of Greek ideas and culture while simultaneously promoting the Greek economy on a global scale.
Monaco Day: What is the main vision behind organizing this event in Davos?
Monaco Day combines Monaco's ambition with its commitment to shaping a better future. The vision is to position Monaco as a dynamic hub of financial leadership, sustainable innovation, and global collaboration. The event highlights Monaco's strategic role in addressing global challenges—whether in finance, sustainability, energy, or technological advancements—while strengthening its influence as a center of innovation, culture, and luxury.
What were the key milestones in your career, and how did they shape you?
From a very young age, I felt a strong desire for independence and autonomy, and continuous learning has always played a central role in my life. At the age of 19, I combined my studies with working in the family office of a major shipping family, where I worked alongside the vice president. I consider this experience to have defined my professional profile for an international career, offering me knowledge and skills I could not have gained elsewhere. Amid the challenges and difficulties of the work environment, I found a space to grow and improve, building the future I had always dreamed of.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated field like lobbying?
The biggest challenge was overcoming the stereotypes associated with my gender and managing doubt. I had to constantly prove my worth through hard work, knowledge, and professionalism. However, these difficulties made me more resilient and determined to achieve my goals and earn respect. Women have made progress in terms of equality and independence, but we still face challenges and stereotypes rooted in past eras.
You communicate and collaborate with internationally renowned entrepreneurs. Can you share the unique qualities of some personalities?
Throughout my extensive career, I have had the great honor of meeting many significant personalities, but none has left as profound an impression on my heart as Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. Dedicated to peace, ecology, and the unity of Churches, his work transcends religious boundaries, influencing societal issues. With wisdom and humility, he unites diverse religious traditions, serving as a model of leadership and a source of inspiration for all. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to stand by him and learn from his gentle yet powerful presence.
Which women do you admire and why?
I admire two women immensely. First, Georgette Moshabaher, founder of La Prairie, diplomat, and successful entrepreneur, who combined the business sector with international diplomacy. She possesses all the qualities I admire in a woman: sharpness, leadership, justice, and a love for life. The second is the wife of a leading entrepreneur, who together with her husband, has built a vast empire, and is the driving force behind his success. These two women, with their unique contributions, showcase the strength and complexity of the female nature.
What are the keys to success? Would you like to share an example from your own life?
Success in the professional world never comes suddenly, and there is certainly no magic key to unlock it. For me, success means having access to numerous opportunities in our career. After years of hard work and effort, we can confidently say that a professional path has stabilized. However, we are fully aware that nothing is guaranteed, and our struggle to stand out on the international stage is ongoing. Our experience from our offices in Switzerland has proven to be crucial, as it has opened the door to a global market and secured the international recognition we sought. This recognition is not the result of chance, but a product of hard work and relentless persistence. The need for continuous development is imperative, as conditions in the global market are constantly changing.
How does a woman, a single mother, manage to succeed in such a demanding professional field?
The strength of a mother is unique—she builds a bridge of resilience with every challenge she faces and crosses it with love and determination. A mother raising her child alone can succeed in a demanding professional field by drawing from her inner strength, setting proper priorities, and treating every obstacle as a lesson. My ability to balance roles with grace and persistence is a daily testament to this strength. Finally, my deep faith in God helps me view life as a miracle.
Interview: Fotini Androulaki
Photography: Math Studio/ Marios Theologis
Make up: Maria Vogiatzi
