Yvette Jarvis Discusses Greek & American Successes

The ambitious female leader, who was the first African-American to play on the Greek Women's Basketball League, moved back to America in December of 2012, after decades of advancing the Hellenic state on a wide range of issues. She now resides with her family in Denver, Colorado.

In an exclusive interview with New Greek TV, Ms. Jarvis discussed her Athenian accomplishments, ties to Greece and her new American ventures.

Why did you initially move to Greece?

I initially moved to Greece following my heart, my 1st husband Stelios Kordopatis. We met in Boston while I was refereeing at Hellenic College, he was there trying out for the basketball team.

You had a strong presence in the nation, in organizations such as Democrats Abroad Greece. Can you tell us about your roles in Athens?

I was and am a member of many organizations in Athens. I began my community involvement with AWOG, the American Women's Organization of Greece. I quickly got involved in other women's organizations that dealt with women's rights.

I was the Vice President of ENOW (European Network of Women); we advocated for victims of domestic violence and trafficking. We were instrumental in the development of laws protecting women, police education and awareness campaigns.

I am a founding member and President of Habitat for Humanity, Greater Athens, we refurbished orphanages, institutions for the disabled and in cooperation with U.S. Ambassador Charles Ries and other organizations, raised $85,000 for Katrina victims. I delivered the check along with our Amabassador, to Habitat for Humanity in Atlanta.

I served as Vice President for WIN Hellas, I am a member of MDA Hellas, Vice President of BEWC Europe, President of the BEWC Hellas (Black European Womens Council), Vice Chair of FARE (football against racism in europe, a pan European organization promoting diversity and combatting racism using football as a medium ), National Coordinator for FARE in Greece, AND held various positions in Democrats Abroad over a 17 year span, lastly that of Chairwoman from 2010-2014.

Most importantly for the city of Athens, I was elected to the city council in 2002 and served 1 term, and from 2007-2010 served as Special Advisor to the Mayor for Immigration.

Why did you decide to move back to America?

The severity of the effect of the economic crisis in Greece was the catalyst for my family's repatriation. We were very concerned for our (then) 17 year old's future. With an unemployment rate of 60+ % for youth we couldn't risk remaining in Greece.

Can you tell us about your current endeavors?

I am currently finishing up my service with Americorps Reading Corps as a literacy Tutor. I will continue to be engaged in community service projects here in America.

I recently won a scholarship to the Netroots Nation Conference in Detroit and I look forward to networking with some of America's top political activists and grassroots organizers.

I continue to seek a top position with city, and/or state agencies or a non profit.
  And who knows maybe just maybe I will aspire to office here in my new/old home! lol

What are your predictions for Greece's future?

In my heart of hearts and in with boundless optimism I believe that Greece will rise from the ashes with the spirit of the Phoenix! I have no doubt that Greece will rise up and command it's presence and place in history as she always has. My concerns are for our people. How many of those forced to flee will return and in the interim how much of its soul (land and sea) will be sold off by self serving irresponsible politicians?

I have no choice but to remain optimistic because I want to come HOME!

What do you miss most about Greece?

I miss our τρόπος ζωής!!! The Aegean sea and my band SouLuv!!!
www.youtube.com/souluvband