In a powerful episode of the Made in Cyprus podcast, Martin Zarian sat down with Paul Lambis—author, playwright, producer, and visionary behind the Cyprus Diaspora Forum. Born in South Africa and now living in Cyprus, Paul shares how his journey through diaspora identity inspired a mission to reconnect Cypriots around the world. His story is one of purpose, cultural pride, and a belief that the island’s future lies in the strength of its global community.
From Johannesburg to Limassol, Paul Lambis has always straddled two worlds. But it’s that very experience—of belonging and not belonging—that now fuels one of Cyprus’ most ambitious initiatives: the Cyprus Diaspora Forum. Designed to reconnect global Cypriots with their heritage and homeland, the forum isn’t just about identity. It’s about unlocking opportunity, attracting investment, and redefining Cyprus as a global business and innovation hub.
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A Life Between Continents
Born and raised in South Africa, Lambis is part of a generation of Cypriots shaped by migration. Growing up under apartheid, he was acutely aware of social divisions and the complexities of belonging. His identity as a Cypriot was kept alive through language, tradition, and a strong sense of community among the diaspora. “We were raised as if we had never left Cyprus,” he recalls.
Yet when he returned to the island years later, Lambis experienced a disconnect. While Cyprus had transformed economically and socially, it lacked a coordinated effort to tap into the vast potential of its global diaspora. That realization became the seed for the Cyprus Diaspora Forum.
Seeing What Others Miss
“People in Cyprus often underestimate the power of the diaspora,” Lambis says. “They don’t realize how deeply rooted their culture is abroad or how influential Cypriots have become globally.”
From world-class doctors in the US to tech entrepreneurs in the UK and Australia, the Cypriot diaspora isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving. Lambis believes Cyprus has a unique opportunity to turn that global network into a strategic national asset.
The Cyprus Diaspora Forum: Building Bridges, Not Just Events бы
What began as an idea has evolved into a full-scale initiative. The Cyprus Diaspora Forum is a multi-day event that merges business, culture, heritage, education, and innovation. Held in Limassol, it brings together international Cypriots from sectors as varied as real estate, finance, tech, arts, and academia.
But it’s not just a conference. The forum creates lasting links between people and institutions—from matchmaking investment opportunities to reconnecting families and celebrating cultural heritage. Attendees include industry leaders, global influencers, and even familiar faces from Netflix. The program includes panel discussions, fireside chats, student mentoring, parallel sessions, and on-demand content.
Culture As Currency
For Lambis, culture is not a soft asset—it’s a competitive one. “We use Cypriot weaving, local produce, art, and language not just as symbols of identity but as ways to connect meaningfully,” he explains. The forum features traditional music and culinary experiences alongside panel discussions and innovation showcases.
This fusion is intentional. It reflects Lambis’ belief that Cyprus doesn’t have to choose between heritage and progress. Instead, it can lead to both. The Cydia Awards and gala night underscore this blend of recognition, tradition, and modernity.
Changing The Narrative: From Holiday Island To Business Destination
One of the forum’s most urgent missions is to change how the diaspora sees Cyprus. For many Cypriots abroad, the island is still seen primarily as a place to vacation or retire. Lambis wants to shift that mindset—to position Cyprus as a serious destination for business, investment, and innovation.
“It’s not enough to love the island from a distance,” he says. “We need people to see Cyprus as a platform for global impact.”
Diaspora As Soft Power
Beyond funding and networks, the diaspora holds another vital asset: influence. Lambis describes Cypriots abroad as cultural ambassadors and economic diplomats, uniquely positioned to shape how Cyprus is perceived and engaged internationally.
“The diaspora can open doors that no institution can,” he notes. “They are trusted, established, and embedded in global networks.”
Not Just For Cypriots By Blood
Importantly, the forum isn’t limited to ethnic Cypriots. It also welcomes non-Cypriots who have made the island their home or invested in its future. From long-time residents to foreign entrepreneurs with deep ties to the island, the forum champions inclusion.
“It’s about shared commitment,” Lambis says. “If you’re contributing to Cyprus, you’re part of the story.”
Retaining Local Talent: A Personal Challenge
Lambis also speaks candidly about the challenge of keeping young talent in Cyprus. He shares the story of encouraging his son to see opportunities at home instead of moving abroad.
“That’s part of why this forum matters,” he explains. “We need to create pathways for the next generation to build their future here.”
To that end, the forum includes student-focused sessions, mentorship opportunities, and intergenerational dialogue aimed at bridging the gap between local youth and global professionals.
The Bigger Picture
The forum also comes at a pivotal moment for Cyprus. With sectors like gaming, fintech, and sustainable development growing rapidly, the country needs to reposition itself beyond the “sun and sea” narrative.
“The diaspora can help lead that shift,” Lambis says. “They bring capital, knowledge, and networks. But they also bring a perspective—a global mindset that Cyprus needs now more than ever.”
Looking Ahead
With its next edition set for 2025, the Cyprus Diaspora Forum is gearing up to expand its reach and impact. Lambis envisions deeper institutional partnerships, greater involvement from the next generation, and more platforms to keep the diaspora engaged year-round.
“We’re not just building an event,” he says. “We’re building a movement.”
For anyone who has ever called Cyprus home—or still does in their heart—this forum is an invitation to reconnect, contribute, and co-create the island’s future.
