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An exploration of Cypriot womanhood, curated as part of "There is an Island III" at the Cyprus High Commission in London. With thanks to: Selen Adem Stephanie Andreou Heghine Bedrossian Katie Bedrossian Chloe Louca Berry Marayam C Hamide Cetinkaya Athena Christodoulou Maria-Sophia Christodoulou Fatmagul Damdelen Günsel Djemal Özüm Deren Dr Yoita Demetriou Christina Dymioti Nadia Flanagan Anastasia Gavalas Christiana Georghiou Akjen Havali Eliz Havali Sophia Hadjipanteli Pervin Hossen Dr Ersin Hussein Mary Joannou Derya Keser Anjelica Minas Karina Miriklis Tugba Mimi Andreani Panaydie Rebecca Pericleous Dania Stavrou Milan Theophilou-Wooley Anastasia Zorlakkis Maria Zorlakkis Maria Zorlakkis-Gadelrab

In this episode, I am joined by filmmaker Stephanie Andreou, to talk about her upcoming debut feature documentary, Women Walk Home. The doucmentary uncovers a never before seen archive of a women-led movement that resisted the division of Cyprus in the 1970s and 80s. Through accounts from the organisers — including her own mother and aunt, who were part of the movement — alongside powerful archival footage, the film weaves together stories of family, displacement, and the role of women in collective resistance. Despite the film still being in post-production, it's already making waves as an important piece for uncovering Cyprus' forgotten history.  In our conversation, Steph and I discuss the role of women in Cyprus' anti-imperial struggle, why the fight against partition is a global issue, and what it really means to return home. Keep up to date with all episodes over on Instagram @roottovinepod, and don't forget to leave a rating/review wherever you're listening!

In this episode, I am joined by author and editor Alex Christofi. Alex's most recent book, "Cypria: A Journey to the Heart of Cyprus" is a vivid and expansive exploration of Cyprus' long and complex history. There's so much to love about Alex's writing. Unlike many of the more distant or one-dimensional accounts of Cyprus, Cypria brings the island to life with warmth, nuance, and a real sense of connection. Alongside its historical depth, it's also deeply personal, shaped by Alex's own memories and relationship to Cyprus. In our conversation, we talk about why now was the right time for this book, how writing it transformed his connection to the island, and why it's so important to think about Cyprus in terms of both its past and its future. Keep up to date with all episodes over on Instagram @roottovinepod, and don't forget to leave a rating/review wherever you're listening!

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Ersin Hussein, an ancient historian specialising in the material culture of ancient Cyprus, mainly in the Roman period. My ancient historical knowledge is pretty none existent, so it was so cool learning more about the importance of ancient Cypriot heritage and how our ancient ancestors are still influencing Cypriot culture and identity today. We talk about the importance of celebrating Cyprus's often overlooked ancient past, honest and transparent ways to engage with museums and institutions, and why ancient history shouldn't be gatekept. This chat opened my eyes to new ways of thinking about our heritage. Our identity stretches far beyond the generations we personally know, and our ancient ancestors might teach us a thing or two about who we are. Keep up to date with all episodes over on Instagram @roottovinepod, and don't forget to leave a rating/review wherever you're listening!

In this episode, I am joined by actor, director and writer Sophia Vi. We deep dive into the state of trans rights, and Sophia shares the realities of what it's like living as a trans woman in the UK today. Sophia also reflects on how her journey of reclaiming her Cypriotness is rooted in her transness; and whilst sometimes conflicting, these identites can also exist in harmony.  Sophia is also the CEO of Koupepia Films, a production company dedicated to creating roles for actors who are too often typecast, pigeonholed, or overlooked. Her work focuses on developing short-form LGBTQ+ and diasporic stories rooted in joy — something she captures beautifully in Koupepia, a film that explores how food can create unlikely bonds and open the door to acceptance. Keep up to date with this season and all other seasons over on Instagram @roottovinepod, and don't forget to leave a rating/review wherever you're listening!  TW: this episode contains themes around violence and suicide that some listeners may find distressing. UK helplines if you or someone you know needs support: Mindline Trans+: National helpline for trans, nonbinary, agender, and genderfluid people as well as friends and family. Mermaids helpline and web chat for trans people under the age of 20 and their parents. Gendered Intelligence support line for trans adults (18+) impacted by gender healthcare waiting lists. Also open to friends, family, and professionals. Galop helpline and web chat for LGBT+ people experiencing abuse or violence. Switchboard: National LGBTQ+ helpline.

In this episode, I am joined by teacher and poet, Maria-Sophia Christodoulou. Her debut poetry collection, A Disbelief of Flesh, was published in 2022 with Out-Spoken Press. It's a poignant exploration of grief and connection with the roots of the self. There's so much in Maria's work that can be resonated with, and her intrsopective approach to understanding heritage is both refreshing and human. Being Cypriot can sometimes be frustrating and difficult, something Maria isn't afraid to admit; but despite the internal battles, pride in her Cypriot identity is strong. As Maria says, the Cypriot people are what makes us, and we are stronger together.  Keep up to date with this season and all previous seasons over on Instagram @roottovinepod, and don't forget to leave a rating/review wherever you're listening!

In this episode, I am joined by Oz Karahan, political activist and President of the Union of Cypriots - an anti-imperialist movement fighting for the complete independence of Cyprus.  We discuss the myth of an ethnic divide on the island, the past and present realities of Turkish settler colonialism on the island; and why we should be working towards liberation, not unification. I always say that From Root To Vine isn't a political podcast, but time and time again, I'm shown that it is impossible to talk about Cyprus without talking politics. For better or worse, the island is heavily politicised, and the current status quo means that isn't changing anytime soon. So long as there is a Cyprus to talk about, there is a nation to defend. Keep up to date with this season and all previous seasons over on Instagram @roottovinepod, and don't forget to leave a rating/review wherever you're listening!

In this episode, I am joined by model Sophia Hadjipanteli. A lot of people will know Sophia from the #UnibrowMovement, that made waves almost a decade ago and has since kickstarted a beauty revolution movement online. Sophia is so much more than just a unibrow, in fact she's a total force to be reckoned with. In this chat, we discuss everything from pretty privilege, her hopes for a reunified Cyprus, and sliding into Nikos Christodoulides' DM's! As a constant advocate for her homeland, she might just be the most proud Cypriot I've met.  Sophia is many things: passionate, unapolagetic, defiant; but more than anything, she's really bloody cool. As Sophia says, "if someone doesn't like you, f*ck em!" Keep up to date with this season and all previous seasons over on Instagram @roottovinepod, and don't forget to leave a rating/review wherever you're listening!

Back in October, I took some friends to Cyprus for our annual holiday, and decided to document a visit to my family's house. It was really special sharing such a sentimental part of my life with everyone, and it allowed me to reflect on my relationship to the island, how it's changed, and why it's important to hold onto these special memories. Keep up to date with this season and all previous seasons over on Instagram @roottovinepod and don't forget to leave a rating/review wherever you're listening!

TW: this episode discusses topics that some listeners may find distressing. For this very specical episode, I am joined by Sage Stephanou from Cypriots for Palestine. We discuss Cyprus' role in Palestinian solidarity, the importance of engaging with both islands' shared resilence, and the love that comes from the land. You'll also hear powerful Palestinian poetry readings from our community. A conversation about history, resistance and the power of collective action. Follow us on Instagram @roottovinepod.

We are back!!! Season 4 is here and I am so excited to share more incredible and inspiring Cypriot stories!  TW: this episode discusses sexual assualt which some listeners may find difficult. For the first episode of season 4, I welcome back Dean Atta to discuss his new memoir, Person Unlimited. Both candid and courageous, Person Unlimited explores Dean's life across the many roles he's played: from choirboy to drag act, grandson to mentor, poet to lover. It looks at what he has carried in his body – wins and losses, shame and pride, pain and joy – and investigates how radical self-acceptance and a willingness to abide with discomfort open up the possibility of a life lived beyond definition: a person unlimited. Person Unlimited is out July 4th.  Dean Atta - deanatta.com / @deanatta Person Unlimited - https://linktr.ee/personunlimited Get involved in the conversation on Instagram/Twitter @roottovinepod.

For the last episode of the season, plase enjoy a live recording from the Proud Voices panel discussion at the Cyprus High Commission in London to celebrate Pride month.  On the panel: Andreas Pavlou - co-founder of the LGBTQ+ UK Cypriot Diaspora Network Ali Orhan - public health executive specialising in cancer prevention, HIV and sexual health Bahriye Kemal - senior lecturer in Contemporary and Postcolonial Literature at Kent University Sophia Vi - actor, dancer, model, writer and Director of Koupepia Films Ltd. Thank you to the Cyprus High Commission for having us! Get involved in the conversation on Instagram/Twitter @roottovinepod!

TW: this episode contains language around sexual assault that some listeners may find triggering. Listener discretion is advised.   In this episode, I am joined by Tugba Mimi. One year ago, Tugba was a victim of r*pe in Cyprus. She is now using her platform to raise awareness about violence against women on the island. Tugba tells me why what she experienced is a Cypriot issue, how the partition of Cyprus is preventing people from getting the justice they deserve, and how she is now using her voice to help others and reclaim her own power. Get involved in the conversation on Instagram/Twitter @roottovinepod!

In this episode, I am joined by freelance artist and tourist guide Serap Kanay. Serap's work focusses on archival storytelling, encompassing gender, oral history, Afro-Cyprot heritage and trauma. Serap has been avidly researching Afro Cypriot heritage since the 1990's and her work has been included in several theses. Serap tells me about the origins of Afro-Cypriots on the island, how her work is raising awareness about Afro-Cypriot heirtage, and how rising black consciousness and diversity is making Cypriots confront racism, prejudice and colourism. Get involved in the conversation on Instagram/Twitter @roottovinepod, and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, I am joined by Andrew Avraam (@andrewavraam_photography). Andrew is an avid photographer whose work explores the abandoned places of Cyprus. On his adventures, Andrew has captured moments in time from abandoned mansions, military bases, Varosha and the UN Buffer Zone. His phorography allows for a window into the past to reveal Cyprus' history and heritage through places long forgotten. Get involved in the conversation on Instagram/Twitter @roottovinepod, and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!