A few days ago, I had the privilege of attending the Melbourne University Greek Association (MUnGA) networking event—a vibrant gathering that brought together members spanning decades of leadership and dedication. It was a night filled with nostalgia, shared experiences, and a deep appreciation for the continuity of this cherished association.
Established in 1968, MUnGA has been a cornerstone for many Greek-Australian students, providing a space for cultural connection, leadership development, and lifelong friendships. Listening to the speakers that evening—John Petrakis, Helen Hatzis, Theo Markos, Jonathan Angelopoulos, Peter Karakousis, and many others—reminded me of the invaluable legacy we are all part of. Each of us, at different points in time, took on the responsibility of leading the association, guided by a shared vision of community service and cultural preservation.
As the 2014 President of MUnGA, I spoke about the importance of honoring the contributions of past members while forging a path forward for future generations. Reflecting on my time in this role, I am struck by how much I learned about leadership and the value of serving a community. Leading MUnGA taught me that true leadership is not about individual accolades, but about fostering a sense of belonging and empowering others to take on new challenges.
One of the most significant lessons I took from my experience was the importance of continuity. It is not enough to achieve success during your tenure; you must also ensure that the organization is in a stronger position for those who follow. This means building solid foundations, mentoring new leaders, and being willing to step back to allow others to shine. The event was a testament to this, with representatives from every era sharing how they contributed to MUnGA’s legacy and how the association, in turn, shaped their personal and professional lives.
Serving the community is at the heart of what we do. Whether it’s through organizing cultural events, advocating for students, or simply being a supportive presence, the work we do at MUnGA has a lasting impact. It helps students from smaller schools or those looking to connect with their heritage find a place to belong and thrive. For me, giving back is not just an obligation; it is a privilege that enriches both the giver and the receiver.
The event also highlighted the critical role of community engagement. Being actively involved in initiatives like MUnGA teaches us the value of collaboration, resilience, and the power of a united community. These experiences extend beyond the university setting, influencing how we engage with and contribute to broader societal causes. As I continue my work at St John’s College and in various community organizations, I carry these lessons with me, always striving to create spaces where individuals can grow, connect, and lead.
Looking ahead, I am filled with optimism. The current committee and student members are as passionate and dedicated as ever, eager to continue the work that was started over half a century ago. It is through their commitment that MUnGA will remain a beacon for future generations, nurturing leaders who will continue to give back to the Greek community of Melbourne and beyond.
To everyone who has been part of this journey—thank you. Your contributions, big or small, have made a difference. Together, we celebrate our past, cherish the present, and look forward to a bright future for MUnGA.
Here’s to the next chapter of this incredible association!
Kristian Raspa 
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