Explore your roots and heritage, experience Cyprus like never before! Applications for the 2024 editions of the NEPOMAK Discover Cyprus Programme (NDCP) and the NEPOMAK Cyprus Culture Tour (NCCT) are now open.
NDCP and NCCT offer diaspora Cypriots from across the globe the opportunity to learn more about Cyprus and its culture and history. Both NDCP and NCCT are heavily subsidised thanks to the support of the Government of Cyprus and the Youth Board of Cyprus.
Applications for the unique cultural programmes will close on Sunday 4th February 2024 at midnight.
NDCP
Ages: 18-22
Dates: 1-22 July 2024
Application Deadline: 4 February 2024
NDCP is a three-week programme that gives participants an immersive experience in Cyprus, learning about the island’s culture and heritage. Participants take Greek language and history classes at the University of Cyprus and are given guided tours around some of the most important places on the island. It is also a brilliant way to develop lifelong friendships with diaspora Cypriots from across the world, with people travelling from the UK, USA, Australia, South Africa, Canada and Greece to take part.
NDCP highlights:
• Learn about your Cypriot culture and heritage through tours and classes at the University of Cyprus
• Connect with young Cypriots from around the world
• Visit cultural hotspots and significant places
• Try traditional dancing with a professional teacher
• Enjoy delicious cuisine and Cyprus’ unique nightlife
More info: nepomak.org/ndcp
Apply: nepomak.org/ndcp-app
“NDCP’s biggest impact was from the incredible people I met on the trip. Within three weeks, I made connections with my fellow diaspora Cypriots, and it felt like I had known them for my entire life. Our common background and heritage quickly transformed strangers into lifelong friends.”
Kira Stephanos, Australia, NDCP 2023
“This trip gave me a wider perspective of my homeland. I had seen its beauty and troubles before, but for the first time, they had been stitched together in a full and comprehensive tapestry for me. NDCP gave me a chance to feel more connected to such a big part of who I am. I felt such happiness spending three weeks with people who share being Cypriot, but far away from Cyprus, and I feel proud to be part of a community with them.”
Marianna Panteli, UK, NDCP 2019
“This was the best experience of my life and I would highly recommend that anyone who is thinking about applying to go for it! It was a once-in-a-lifetime trip with an incredible group of friends who became family. This trip created some beautiful memories that will last a lifetime and I am so glad that I experienced it.”
Dario Patsalos, South Africa, NDCP 2018
“A truly unique experience. After only a few weeks in Cyprus, I left with lifelong friends from all corners of the globe! All whilst forging a deeper connection to our Cypriot traditions, culture and language. Wish I could do it all again!”
Nethie Savva, UK, NDCP 2017
NCCT
Ages: 23-30
Dates: 25 July – 5 August 2024
Application Deadline: 4 February 2024
NCCT is an approximately 10-day tour of Cyprus, where participants see the best that Cypriot culture has to offer. It is an unforgettable itinerary exploring Cyprus with a group of fellow diaspora Cypriots through guided tours and authentic experiences. The tour visits all major cities as well as the Troodos Mountains and the Akamas Peninsula.
NCCT highlights:
• Explore historic places
• Marvel at stunning views and scenery
• Swim at world-class beaches
• Engage with the history and culture of Cyprus
• Taste authentic Cypriot cuisine
More info: nepomak.org/ncct
Apply: nepomak.org/ncct-app
“My father always spoke to me about his connection to Cyprus. A connection that I never thought I would have. I didn’t know the language or much of the history so never thought I would go. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to join NCCT 2023. The experiences and knowledge I gained in those 10 days are more than any book could have taught me. It was more than I could ever have hoped and left me with such an appreciation and newfound connection to the Cypriot culture and history.”
Marie Trikkis, Australia, NCCT 2023
“NCCT made me feel so connected to my Cypriot identity. It was also the most amazing way to meet young Cypriots from all over the world. One of my tour highlights was getting to stay in a beautiful village in the mountains for a few days with the friendliest hosts! I am so thankful to NEPOMAK for this opportunity! This trip is a must as it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!”
Antonia Michael, South Africa, NCCT 2022
“NCCT combined so many beautiful experiences while building connections with new friends from around the globe. From swimming under waterfalls to learning the history behind Aphrodite to meeting the President of Cyprus, NCCT encompassed an educational and entertaining way to deepen our love for the island.”
Florentina Sergiou, USA, NCCT 2022
“You are in a quaint-style hotel, take in the breathtaking panoramic mountainous view as you are in one of the highest villages in Troodos mountains. From nature hikes through the Akamas peninsula and touring historical Byzantine monasteries to wine-tasting tours and sailing into the sunset, NCCT is a once-in-a-lifetime culturally immersive travel experience with professional guided tours that are both educational and fun.”
Andrea Themistokleous, Canada, NCCT 2019
Please email us at [email protected] if you have any questions, and find us on Instagram and Twitter (@NEPOMAK)
NEPOMAK, the World Federation of Young Overseas Cypriots, was founded in 2002 and is a global organisation run by, and for, young diaspora Cypriots aged 18-30.