Team South Africa in Greece marks a successful New Year celebration
9 February 2026
The South African community (Team SA) in Greece, in close collaboration with the South African Embassy in Athens, proudly hosted a vibrant New Year gathering at the Rythmos Event Hall on 31 January 2026.
The celebration brought together members of the community for an evening dedicated to unity, cultural pride, and shared purpose. The event opened with heartfelt wishes for a prosperous and fulfilling 2026.
Throughout the evening, guests reflected on the strength, resilience, and enduring spirit of South Africans living in Greece. The gathering underscored the essence of Ubuntu, the belief in our shared humanity, and the importance of staying connected to one’s roots, traditions, and collective identity.
South African Ambassador Dr Lindiwe Msengana-Ndlela highlighted key national milestones on the horizon, including the upcoming State of the Nation Address on 12 February and the 30th anniversary of the inception of South Africa’s Constitution. This landmark document, celebrated worldwide as a beacon of democracy and human rights, remains a powerful reminder of the country’s transformation.
These commemorations, together with Freedom Day, honour South Africa’s journey from oppression to democracy and reaffirm the values that continue to guide the nation.
Furthermore, the Ambassador acknowledged the deep historical ties between South Africa and Greece, bonds strengthened by generations of families who carry a profound love for South Africa, even from afar.
The Ambassador continued and said:
“I would like to appeal to you, individually and collectively, to contribute and serve humanity and both our countries as we seek to strengthen people-to-people relations. All of us have a role to play in this generation, for today and future generations. As President Nelson Mandela once said: What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life that we lead.”
She emphasised that every contribution by each member of the South African community in Greece counts, be it considered to be small or big, every act of kindness makes a difference.
In his remarks, the Programme Director of the event, Mr Stavros Messinis shared his optimism for the year ahead, outlining initiatives designed to further elevate the presence and impact of the South African community in Greece. He highlighted plans to expand cultural, sporting, educational and business activities, reinforcing the community’s growing footprint. Events such as this, he noted, play a vital role in keeping people connected and strengthening the bonds that hold the community together.
The gathering was also introduced to the new Political Counsellor at the Embassy, Mr Jaimal Anand.
South African Embassy in Athens, Greece