Living with Dementia: Impact on Individuals, Caregivers, Communities and Societies
Johns Hopkins University (June 2025)
Vassia Karkantzou
Hi! I’m Vassia
Licensed Social Worker & Consultant since 2004, member of the Greek Association of Social Workers and Senior Consultant.
I dedicate my work to providing high-quality social services and human rights expertise, with a focus on vulnerable individuals and communities.
With experience in Greece, Europe, and internationally, I collaborate with individuals, families, NGOs, institutions, and organizations to deliver tailored and effective strategic solutions as expert and consultant.
My combined experience in hands-on social work and project management gives me a holistic perspective, enabling me to address challenges strategically and with impact.
My story
Like many, I began my career in the social and humanitarian field with a dream of changing the world. That goal never left me; I just learned to pursue it at a strategic and managerial level, gaining a wealth of life-changing professional experiences, often in unexpected places (yes, I’m looking at you, Kosovo!).
Today, I’m returning to my roots—bringing over 18 years of experience that bridges my passion for hands-on excellence in social service with strategic social innovation.
Throughout these years, I have combined my commitment to social work, social justice, and human rights with advanced project and bid management skills. I’ve taken on challenging roles that equipped me to deliver high-quality results even in demanding and complex environments.
My diverse experience has made me adaptable, allowing me to apply my skills wherever they align with my vision, goals, and approach. Along the way, I’ve been fortunate to meet mentors who profoundly shaped my professional mindset.
Good or bad, my life has been rich in experiences—both personal and professional—each one contributing to the birth of SocialWorks Consulting.
My philosophy
My life’s journey has never been linear—or boring. From a childhood spent playing tennis to adolescence filled with alternative music festivals, and then moving into a professional career chasing tight deadlines and ambitious goals, I have always sought growth and challenge. Today, I have come full circle, embracing an active lifestyle while taking a pivotal step in my career with the founding of SocialWorks Consulting. I have personally experienced the benefits of physical activity on well-being and consider it a vital component of modern social care. I firmly believe in the transformative power of small, daily habits, especially as we age.
I am fortunate to still have both my parents, who have long entered their third age. This gives me a deep understanding of the anxieties many feel about the quality of life of loved ones as they become more vulnerable with age.
I have always felt a particular sensitivity toward older adults, and as societies age rapidly, I recognize the urgent need for proactive social support services that genuinely enhance the lives of older people wishing to take charge of their health and quality of life. Today more than ever, older adults must invest in their well-being by staying active and socially connected. Social services should go beyond quick-fix solutions, promoting engagement, empowerment, and independence. This philosophy has been at the core of my professional work for years, guiding my commitment to advancing the social sector.
My Résumé
Education
2000 – 2004
BA in Social Work
Higher Technological institute of West Greece, Department of Social Work, Patras, Greece.
2008 – 2009
MA in Sociology
Applied Social Research in Regional Development Social Cohesion
University of the Aegean, Department of Sociology, Greece.
2025
Further specialisation
Work Experience
Throughout my professional career, I have worked extensively with diverse vulnerable populations at both operational and strategic levels. I began my career as a social worker in the humanitarian field, having the privilege to work with Doctors Without Borders Greece (2004). I was actively involved in transitioning MSF’s national programs to the newly-established NGO, PRAKSIS, where I took on my first leadership roles as supervisor of a wide range of socioeconomic support and public health services (for refugees, migrants, unemployed individuals, victims of violence, and others), while also engaging in fundraising, advocacy, and awareness campaigns (2005-2008).
The experience I gained from fieldwork became a valuable asset in my professional growth as a social worker, expert and consultant in a variety of social service programs and initiatives, mostly funded by the European Union. From 2009 to 2024, I held various high-demand positions in the non-profit and civil society sector, often serving as Senior Social Work Expert, while also acting as Head of EU program departments and/or coordinator of bid management activities.
For a more detailed list of my previous roles and experience, please visit my LinkedIn profile.
2005
Senior Social Worker & Consultant
Founder & Key Expert
2002 – 2024
Previous positions
Portfolio
Services for adults & seniorsMay 24, 2016 - 1:02 pm
Services for organizations – companiesMay 24, 2016 - 1:01 pm
Social