SAGAPO = I LOVE YOU in Greek
Sagapo Children’s Foundation is a humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential through education. Sagapo commits in creating awareness to transform lives and restore hope. By educating the children of today, we envision positive change in current communities, and encourage the passing on of their knowledge to future generations.
Sixty-seven million primary school-age children around the world are not enrolled in school. Lack of education puts these children at a greater risk for exploitation, early marriage, racism, violence, and drastically decreases down their expected income. Our mission is to create a better learning environment for children and increase awareness among their parents, communities, and governments about the necessity and importance of proper education. We commit to honour the right for all children to have access to education so they have the chance to evolve and excel. Our respect and deep love for children are the driving force for our cause.
Sagapo Children’s Foundation works in putting relationship back into education and learning – seeking synergy between all aspects of education: ethos, curriculum, pedagogy, management, procurement and resource use, architecture and community links – with emphasis on such values as respect, trust, participation, ownership, democracy, openness and environment. The good news is that many people are more than ready for this challenge today and willing to join us on the journey!
Sagapo Children’s Foundation is committed to a holistic and humanistic vision of quality education worldwide, the realization of everyone’s right to education, and the belief that education plays a fundamental role in human, social and economic development.
Education is a fundamental right, necessary for the development of each person and society as well as for the welfare of all individuals. All children, both boys and girls are entitled to qualitative basic education. Nowadays, millions of children and especially girls are deprived of this right in many parts of the world.
A more qualitative basic education enables both girls and boys to gain access to basic knowledge and everyday life skills which are necessary for them to live responsibly in the society and take full part in the life of their country, their community and their family. Education provides access to a better life.
It may end generations of poverty and diseases and it provides a means to a long lasting social, financial and political development.
The organization unites a devoted team of people who truly believe that education is the fundamental step in children’s blossoming and shaping their future. Our team’s diverse professional backgrounds create the important structure of the foundation, and further in the delegation of possibilities in which we can encourage the message of education. Sagapo’s founders and members dedicate themselves in sharing their specific knowledge and passions to children around the world.
Founders
Born in the city of Limassol, Cyprus, Christina embarked on a journey of knowledge and exploration that would shape her into the visionary she is today. Her educational pursuits led her to the scenic shores of Nice, where she delved into the intricacies of Economics, and later to the cultural capital of Paris, where she honed her expertise in Tourism Management.
With an unwavering passion for fostering meaningful connections and creating memorable experiences, Christina established in 1982 Drakos Travel-DMC in Limassol. Specializing in conference tourism and event management, her company has been at the forefront of orchestrating impactful gatherings that leave a lasting impression.
For over three decades, Christina's lens has captured the essence of humanity in its purest form. A wordwide traveler, her photography is not just a documentation of places, but a profound exploration of the human spirit. Children, with their boundless curiosity and untapped potential, have always held a special place in her heart, becoming a central focus of her work.
Her artistic vision has garnered international acclaim, earning her the prestigious title of Excellent Artist Photographer from the esteemed FIAP (Federation Internationale de l’Art Photographique – EFIAP). Yet, for Christina, the true reward lies in giving back.
Driven by a deep sense of purpose, Christina has dedicated her exhibitions and acclaimed photo albums – from "The Journey" in 1997, to "Angels of Light" in 2000, "Close Ups" in 2002, and "Mother India" in 2009 – to charitable causes close to her heart.
Through the proceeds of her artistic endeavors, she has made a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. Charities such as the Ayia Skepi Drug Rehabilitation Centre and Theotokos Foundation in Cyprus, Doctors Without Borders (MSF), Make-A-Wish, UNESCO, Child Focus, and numerous others have benefited from her generosity and unwavering commitment to social impact.
Following the whispers of her heart and the call of her inspirations, Christina founded "Sagapo," a beacon of hope and love for underprivileged children worldwide. The name itself, meaning "I love you" in Greek, encapsulates the Foundation's core mission: to create nurturing learning environments where every child can thrive and flourish within their communities.
With Sagapo Children's Foundation, Christina continues to weave a tapestry of compassion, education, and empowerment. Every step taken, every heart touched, is a testament to her enduring love for humanity and her belief in the transformative power of giving.
Vasilis Lekkas
Antreas Koualis
Myrsini Aristidou
Orestis Aristides
