Sofia Agathonikopoulou is an economist and cultural strategist with an interdisciplinary background spanning economics, museology, and mental
health counseling. Holding degrees from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, the University of Macedonia, and the Ionian University, she is
also an Accredited Coach and Certified NLP Trainer and Consultant. After a distinguished career as a senior executive in the banking sector, Sofia
dedicated the last decade to the cultural sector, serving as Vice-Chairwoman of the Management Committee and Secretary of the “Friends of Corfu Art
Gallery” association. Her work bridges the gap between economic theory and human well-being, advocating for a new model of “cultural well-being” where
museums evolve from passive exhibition spaces into active centers of empowerment, healing, and social cohesion.
An active member of ICOM, HCCMA, EMCC Greece, and EIDAS, Sofia contributes regularly to Parallaxi magazine (https://parallaximag.gr).
Research interests: Her research focuses on the intersection of cultural participation and mental health, exploring how storytelling, therapeutic
exhibition design, and inclusive policies can foster social resilience. Specifically, she investigates programs designed to support underrepresented
communities, aiming to reduce isolation and strengthen mental health through cultural engagement.