Her Voice

This book's introduction is clear about where culturally diverse women stand in the 2020s: 'while we have made some meaningful inroads towards equality, we are nowhere near enough to where we need to be.' Such women face the glass ceiling of their gender, and a cultural ceiling as well.

It assembles the voices of over 40 women from many walks of life, many of them high achievers, who detail the difficulties and the triumphs they have met within their lives. Their stories, strength and resilience inspire.

Her Voice arose from the Food for Thought network, founded 20 years ago in Melbourne, made up of Greek Australian women originally, but quickly drawing in other migrant women and daughters of migrants through friendship, love and the recognition of how much they had in common.


"...a beautiful book! it's such a triumph - the content, the design, the intent." - Maggie Hamilton, Sydney

"...A monumental book, a gift not only to Greek women but to multicultural Australia, a historical reference point for future generations ... it should be read by all men and women ... Touching, and inspiring" - Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Melbourne

"...Narrated with an authentic voice, this book is a treasure trove of life journeys." - Zografina Kopanidis, Melbourne

"Varvara's story and her book is beautiful and inspiring, a true display of intelligence, determination and empowerment ... These small windows into other womens choices reminds me how important relatable role models and mentors are for our girls." - Dora Kordakis, Melbourne

"I couldn't put the book down because literally and metaphorically I heard their voices. I cried. I giggled. I rejoiced. I connected with all of them. A brilliant book of historic importance." - Maria Makris, Melbourne

"Many thanks to Varvara for introducing me to so many wonderful and inspirational women. In particular, I found the key events that shaped and assisted each woman in her journey, to be very interesting! There is certainly valuable advice for younger women who read "Her Voice: Greek Women and their friends." - Sandra Keown

"...Amazing book ... a valuable resource for anyone who seeks to understand the role of women within our community and beyond and Varvara Ioannou deserves our heartfelt gratitude ... she is a national treasure ... many of the achievements of women are glossed over, effaced or obscured. This volume allows Greek women of all ages and others connected to our community to speak for themselves. What they choose to say about themselves and their worldview is significant." - Dean Kalimniou, Melbourne

"It is a wonderful book with a lot to offer and Varvara should be very proud of having brought it all to us women from all backgrounds but especially for women of Greek origin." - Marina Marangos, Brisbane