About

Sofia's Journey

Sofia began as a competitive sailor, where her passion for sports drove her to achieve success on a global stage. Beyond her athletic achievements, she has used her expertise to empower the next generation through sports education, collaboration with international sports bodies, and advocacy for healthy living.

Sofia continues to inspire athletes and young people, emphasizing the importance of values such as effort, perseverance, and the pursuit of a better life through sports and education.

 

Sofia OLY

Sofia has dedicated over 18 years to promoting sports, culture, and education through collaboration with prestigious organizations worldwide as the World Sailing, Hellenic Sailing Federation, International Olympic Academy and many more. With a strong background in competitive sailing and sports education, she is committed to inspiring others and fostering the values of effort, persistence, and a healthy lifestyle.

Sofia Papadopoulou OLY, Olympic bronze medalist and First Lieutenant of the Hellenic Air Force, is a leader in sailing, sport governance, and gender equality. With advanced degrees in Sports Science and Olympic Education, she is pursuing a PhD in Sport Management while driving initiatives like the award-winning SailFem project to empower women coaches. A Vice Chair at World Sailing and active member of multiple international sport bodies, Sofia champions the Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship—leaving a lasting legacy both on and off the water.

Professional Experience

Vice Chairman of Regional Games Committee & Member of Youth Events Committee (2025-2028)

Member of Sub-Committees Regional Games & Youth Events (2021-2024)

Hellenic Sailing Federation

Project Coordinator  

“Steering The Course – Istioploia Genous Thilikou”

Greek Women in sailing  program

 

Evolving Minds

Performance Coach

Testimonials

Testimonials

Beatriz González Luna Ruiz – Vice Chair of World Sailing

“We had the pleasure of collaborating with Sofia on the Regional Games Sub -Committee of World Sailing, where she demonstrated exceptional professionalism throughout our time working together. She had brought valuable collaborative spirit in her commitment to the growth and with the development of sailing. I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside with Sofia, and I am inspired by her passion and capacity; She is   truly an inspiration for the future sailors!!!”

George Mavrotas – General Secretary of Sports – Olympian of Water Polo

“Despite Sofia’s remarkable athletic achievements, which have reached the heights few attain — including an Olympic medal — she did not rest on her laurels. A restless and creative spirit, she now shares her knowledge and passion with the younger generations of her sport and beyond, showcasing the strength that lies within sports.”

George Saranteas – My personal Physical Trainer – Coach of Volleyball Women Team of Artemis Korydallou

“My first contact and collaboration with Sofia in 2006 led us to an Olympic medal in Beijing in 2008. Since then, whether as a friend or in her role as Vice President of Artemis Korydallos Women Volleyball team, we have connected our paths through dozens of athletic and social initiatives, always based on mutual respect and shared goals for what we love and serve from every position: sports in all its forms.”

Elena Michael – Founder of Young Stars of Cyprus – Evolving Minds - Youth Coach Trainer, Speaker, Mum, Design Thinking Enthusiast

“Sofia has the gift of inspiring trust in you. No matter the goal or how big it is, she takes you by the hand, and any resistance fades away. You follow her, and she guides you step by step. She is like a favorable wind—not intimidating with her strength, but giving you momentum.”

Stratos Achlatis – Representative of Hellenic Sailors Athletes in the Board of HSF - Para sailor Champion

“Sofia has the gift of inspiring trust in you. No matter the goal or how big it is, she takes you by the hand, and any resistance fades away. You follow her, and she guides you step by step. She is like a favorable wind—not intimidating with her strength, but giving you momentum.”

News

Projects

Coaching

Privacy Policy

Photo Credits

“Join us

to elevate

the next generation”