Our very own Stella Leivadi was invited to speak at the 6th European Olympic Academies (EOA) Congress, held from September 24-28, 2024, in the historic birthplace of the Olympics, Olympia, Greece. The Congress, themed “Perspectives on the Olympic Movement after the Paris Games”, brought together Olympic scholars, academics, and National Olympic Academy (NOA) representatives from across Europe to examine the legacy and future direction of the Olympic Games following Paris 2024.

In her presentation, Professor Leivadi shared insights from her recent experience as a volunteer in the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. She discussed Paris’ strategic plans to maximize the impact of hosting, illustrating how a city with a deep cultural legacy still found new ways to contribute to the Olympic movement. Her perspective highlighted how Paris elevated the Games’ legacy, setting a high standard for future hosts and inspiring anticipation for Los Angeles 2028.

This year’s Congress, one of the first international gatherings to assess the evolving role of the Olympic Games post-Paris 2024, explored critical issues such as the Games’ political and social legacy and the balance between modernization and tradition. The discussions reflected the dynamic nature of the Olympic movement as it adapts to a rapidly changing world while staying rooted in its historical values.