The Business Society Accelerator (BSA) recently hosted a fireside chat titled “Pioneering Success: Business and Beyond,” featuring biotech entrepreneur Marianna Prokopi-Demetriades.
The event, organised in collaboration with RSEVEN, Theramir, RSL Labs, and other partners, offered valuable insights into entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership.
The evening began with Efi Philippou, a core member of the BSA team, who spoke about the importance of connection and empowerment in entrepreneurship.
She introduced the BSA as a global community dedicated to providing entrepreneurs with the tools and support necessary for success.
The event’s keynote speaker, Prokopi-Demetriades, shared her journey from aspiring scientist to biotech leader, highlighting the perseverance, passion, and purpose that guided her through challenges in the field.
Prokopi-Demetriades, featured in Forbes Cyprus’ “20 Women in Tech 2023” and recipient of the King’s Distinguished STEM Award in 2022, recounted her experiences in establishing biotech ventures in Cyprus.
Her work includes a patented platform at Theramir with the potential to treat over 30 different types of cancer.
Despite facing obstacles along the way, she underscored the significance of resilience in pushing forward innovations that could make a profound impact on healthcare.
The conversation revealed several key lessons for entrepreneurs. Prokopi-Demetriades stressed that passion and determination are crucial, particularly in demanding sectors like biotechnology.
She also explained how personal experiences, including loss, fuelled her drive to create life-changing solutions in healthcare. Building strong networks and collaborations, she noted, is essential for overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
Prokopi-Demetriades highlighted the need for continuous learning and adaptability in leadership roles, stating that staying informed about industry developments is key to sustaining growth.
In discussing her ventures, which include Theramir, Promed Bioscience, and RSL Revolutionary Labs, Prokopi-Demetriades showcased her focus on developing innovative cancer treatments and supportive care products.
She reflected on the challenges of founding and operating biotech companies in Cyprus, citing perseverance as a critical factor in her success.
BSA founder Raluca Ioana Man, who moderated the event, reaffirmed the organisation’s mission to support entrepreneurs through education, networking, and collaboration.
“Our mission at BSA is to create a platform where entrepreneurs can connect, learn, and grow together,” she said.
“Events like this fireside chat with Marianna Prokopi-Demetriades exemplify our commitment to providing valuable insights and inspiration to our community,” she added.
The fireside chat concluded with a Q&A session, where attendees had the opportunity to ask Prokopi-Demetriades for advice and further details on her experiences.
Meanwhile, Panis Pieri highlighted the importance of innovation and networking in today’s global economy.
“We support innovation and startups globally because it’s the only way forward to create a better planet,” he said.
“Events and networking are super important to spread the message,” he said, before prompting the audience to “keep innovating”.
The BSA also announced several upcoming events, including a complimentary online session on financial strategies on October 23, and a pre-Christmas networking event on December 4.
These events are part of BSA’s ongoing efforts to offer valuable opportunities for entrepreneurs to expand their knowledge and build their professional networks.
For more information on joining the BSA and attending future events, visit the BSA platform at https://bit.ly/BSAplatform.
