Athena Xenidou

Athena Xenidou is a Lecturer at the School of Arts, Media & Communication of the University of Central Lancashire Cyprus. She holds advanced qualifications in film and international relations, including an MA in International Relations and Film Production training from prestigious institutions.

• Education:
  • MA in International Relations, University of Nicosia (2010)
  • MA training as a Film Producer, American Film Institute, Los Angeles (1998)
  • BA in Film Studies, University of California Santa Barbara (1997)
  • Studies in Music and English Literature, University of Switzerland, Fribourg (1992-93)

• Employment Track:
  • Artistic Director, Cyprus Film Days International Film Festival (2024)
  • Head of Filmmaking Workshops, Cyprus Film Days International Film Festival (2022-2024)
  • Founder/Artistic Director, The Film and Stage Studio (2008–present)
  • Producer, Advertising Campaigns, MOI Worldwide (2017-2019)
  • Director of TV series for Sigma TV, CYBC, and ANT1 (2014-2016)
  • Director, Reality TV shows (Survivor, The Farm) in Greece (2001-2006)

Xenidou specializes in producing, screenwriting, directing, and acting for film, television, and theater. Her research interests align with practical and theoretical aspects of media production, with a focus on cross-cultural storytelling and television dramaturgy.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Recipient of multiple awards for film and performance, including international recognitions at Worldfest Houston and Roma Short Festival.
  • Honored with the International Women’s Day Award for Arts and Culture (2016).

• Professional Memberships:
  • Jury Member, International Emmy Awards, Academy of Television Arts and Sciences
  • Vice-President, Board of Directors, Cyprus Symphony Orchestra Foundation (2021-2024)
  • Head of Television, Board of Directors, Directors Guild Cyprus (2021-2023)
  • Member, FERA (Federation of European Screen Directors)
  • Member, Women in Film and Television, Greece (2023)