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Ena Foundation Launches New Era of Collective Progress In Cyprus

Introduction

In a landmark initiative aimed at fostering a more equitable and resilient society, the Ena Foundation has officially commenced its operations in Cyprus. This independent, non-profit organization is committed to mobilizing the power of every individual, act, and community to drive collective progress and generate lasting societal impact.

Mission And Vision

Founded by entrepreneur Tasos Papanastasiou and co-founded by Christiana Panagi, the Ena Foundation is inspired by deep-rooted Cypriot and Greek values of unity, integrity, and selfless generosity. The organization is funded primarily through private resources and is dedicated to enhancing social progress through concrete, sustainable initiatives.

Empowering Athlete Careers

Central to its suite of programs is Beyond The Medal, a pioneering initiative designed to support Olympic and Paralympic-level athletes. Recognizing that an athlete’s journey extends well beyond the playing field, the program is structured to promote dual careers by integrating educational advancement with athletic success. With targeted support through the 2028 Olympic Games, the initiative emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and perseverance, as evidenced by the commitment of the first eight athletes who have joined the program.

Grants For Change

The Grants For Change initiative seeks to empower local communities by providing up to €20,000 in funding to projects that foster empowerment and promote the social inclusion of vulnerable groups. Currently under evaluation, selected projects will be announced in mid-November, setting the stage for transformative community impact and sustainable project development.

Envision Together: Revitalizing Public Spaces

Further reinforcing its commitment to social cohesion, the Ena Foundation has introduced Envision Together, a program dedicated to enhancing public spaces. By improving parks and communal infrastructure, the organization aims to create vibrant spaces that encourage social interaction and strengthen community bonds. Upcoming projects under this initiative are poised to redefine communal life and quality of living for local residents.

Leadership And A Call To Action

Driven by a philosophy that success is measured by one’s ability to uplift others, the Ena Foundation’s leadership emphasizes transparency, strategic partnerships, and the power of collective action. As coordinator Anastasia Ellina notes, the foundation is evolving to support innovative, sustainable solutions in partnership with society. Likewise, Constantinos Kkaili reinforces the importance of collaboration in driving social progress.

Conclusion

The Ena Foundation firmly believes that change begins with one person, one act, and one community. By uniting citizens, organizations, and stakeholders in a shared journey toward progress, the foundation sets a new standard for social contribution and tangible change in Cyprus.

Mercedes-Benz Posts Higher Profit Despite China Slowdown

Mercedes-Benz reported stronger-than-expected second-quarter results, lifting its shares on Tuesday despite mounting pressure from Chinese automakers and a weaker outlook for sales and revenue.

The earnings provided a boost for Europe’s auto sector, where manufacturers continue to grapple with tariffs, softer demand and intensifying competition from Chinese rivals. Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz and BMW have all accelerated restructuring efforts in response.

Cost Discipline Lifts Quarterly Profit

Mercedes-Benz shares rose as much as 5.9% following the results before trimming gains to trade 3.5% higher by 1118 GMT. The company reaffirmed its profit margin guidance for its core passenger car business after reporting an adjusted return on sales of 4.0% for the second quarter, above market expectations and within its 3% to 5% target range.

“In an environment where some automakers are ringing alarm bells on their competitive positioning, Mercedes delivered a clear and confident message,” Morningstar analyst Rella Suskin said.

Second-quarter operating profit increased 22% to €1.5 billion ($1.7 billion), despite a 3% decline in revenue. Lower administrative and research and development costs, together with strong performances from the financial services and vans divisions, supported earnings, while the results also included a €131 million gain related to the planned sale of leasing subsidiary Athlon.

China Remains The Key Pressure Point

Despite stronger profitability, Mercedes continues to face a challenging market environment. Sales in China fell 30% during the second quarter, prompting the company to abandon earlier expectations for stable car sales and group revenue. It now expects both to decline slightly from a year earlier.

BMW also lowered its outlook in June following a deeper-than-expected slowdown in China, highlighting the pressure facing Germany’s premium carmakers. At the same time, Mercedes said Chinese manufacturers are increasingly expanding into European markets, although Chief Executive Ola Kaellenius said their focus remains on higher-volume segments rather than the premium market.

“But that is not a reason to sit back and be relaxed,” he said.

Manufacturing Shift Continues

Mercedes is also reshaping its manufacturing footprint. The company said its German factories will undergo a more aggressive push toward leaner production, although it declined to provide further details while talks with labour representatives continue. Production is also being expanded in lower-cost Eastern European locations, including Hungary, where the company is increasing capacity at its Kecskemet plant, as well as in Poland.

Chief Financial Officer Harald Wilhelm said the full-year margin for the passenger car division is expected to come in at the lower end of the company’s guidance range, reflecting a higher share of electric vehicle sales in Europe, which remain more expensive to produce and continue to weigh on profitability.

“We must continue to work flat out to reduce costs so that we can remain competitive on the prices of our products,” Kaellenius said.

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