New cohort of research fellows joins the AWRC from Greece

This month, the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre welcomed its third cohort of research fellows via the Stavros Niarchos Foundation fellowship exchange programme led by Yorkshire Cancer Research.

We sat down with Pelagia Mavraki and Marialena Kaframani to learn about the expertise they bring and what they’re hoping to achieve over the next three months.

Hi! It’s great to meet you. Can you tell us a bit about yourselves?

P: Hello! My name is Pelagia Mavraki I am 25 years old, and I was born and raised in Crete the biggest island in Greece. I currently live in a town near Athens, where I continue to grow both personally and professionally within the field of health and exercise science.

M: Hi! My name is Marialena Kaframani, I am 27 years old, and I was born and raised in Athens, Greece. For the past two years, I have been working as an Exercise Science and Physical Fitness Expert at Sports Excellence, a program run by Regeneration & Progress. Sports Excellence operates under the scientific supervision of the 1st Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the Athens University Medical School, with the exclusive donation of Stavros Niarchos Foundation.

What is your professional and academic background?

P: My academic background consists of undergraduate studies at the School of Physical Education and Sports Science at Democritus University of Thrace. I specialized in adapted physical education/activity and exercise for people with chronic conditions. Building on that foundation, I went on to complete a Master of Science in Clinical Exercise and Applications of Technology in Health. Currently, I am also pursuing postgraduate studies in functional training of injuries in athletes and trainees.

Professionally, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide range of populations, including individuals living with chronic conditions and disabilities. These experiences have fuelled my drive to make physical activity accessible, inclusive, and empowering for all.

M: From 2017 to 2021, I studied at the School of Physical Education and Sport Science at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, where I specialized in strength and health, and graduated with excellent distinction. This specialty focused on the biological adaptations caused by exercise and their significance for human fitness and health, as well as the implementation of therapeutic exercise programs for clinical populations. My main professional and research interests lie in therapeutic exercise for clinical populations. Driven by this interest, I have participated in and presented at various physical education and sports science conferences, both in Greece and abroad. Currently, I am completing my master’s degree in the exercise and health postgraduate program at the School of Medicine of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. In collaboration with the Sports Excellence team, I am responsible for coordinating the falls prevention programme and the action for obesity initiative. In addition to my work at Sports Excellence, I am also professionally engaged in private practice, focusing on therapeutic exercise for the general population, with an emphasis on restoring and improving functional capacity.

What are you hoping to achieve from participating in the fellowship programme?

P: My motivation for participating in this fellowship programme comes from the opportunity to engage with a field I have not yet explored in depth. I consider this a valuable chance to broaden my knowledge and gain insight cancer and its intersection with exercise and rehabilitation. Additionally, the global challenges that AWRC is focused on addressing through research and innovation will provide invaluable exposure and knowledge that I hope to bring back and apply in my country.

M: We all recognize the importance of exercise in managing health conditions. The scientific literature is continually expanding, providing us with new insights about exercise and its effects on both the physical and mental health of individuals – patients as well as healthy populations, especially in the context of prevention. I am grateful for this opportunity and intend to invest in expanding my knowledge and creating new collaborations through the AWRC. My goal is to support these efforts either by being present here in person or remotely, from my beloved home country, contributing to research for the collective good.

What have been your first impressions of the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre?

P: At AWRC, the people are incredibly passionate and committed to the mission of transforming lives through physical activity, each bringing their own expertise to the cause. Regardless of status, everyone is down-to-earth, friendly, and eager to help make the most of this knowledge exchange experience. Furthermore, the facilities and equipment available are truly outstanding, providing an environment that encourages freedom to experiment and innovate.

M: My first impressions of the AWRC have been truly inspiring. The centre embodies innovation, science, compassion for patients, humanity, and warmth. From the moment I arrived, I felt very welcomed, which helped me overcome the initial anxiety I had about whether I would manage to adapt and succeed here. The environment is vibrant and full of passionate people committed to pushing the boundaries of exercise and health science. The advanced technology and supportive community create an ideal place for growth and learning. Although I was initially quite anxious, the kindness and encouragement I received made me feel comfortable and confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to this important work.

And what about Sheffield?

P: Upon arriving I was surprised by its harmonious blend of natural beauty and urban character. It is a city of contrasts with its modern architecture and old industrial buildings depicting a rich history. It truly offers a welcoming atmosphere creating a sense of calmness and familiarity, making it an ideal transition abroad.

M: It’s a tough comparison coming here from one of the sunniest places in the world – no wonder the weather didn’t exactly roll out the warmest welcome! Sheffield has been a delightful surprise though. It’s such an interesting city, seamlessly blending a lively urban feel with incredibly green surroundings. I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the area, and I can definitely say I’m captivated by how much green space there is right on the doorstep. But the real highlight for me so far has been venturing out to the Peak District area. I enjoy hiking, and getting to experience those stunning landscapes so close to the city has been fantastic. One of the things I miss most from home is the sun, so the weather here was a bit of a shock at first. Thankfully, the sun has made a few appearances recently, almost making me feel right at home – like I’m back in Athens! It’s been great to discover a city that offers such a perfect mix of vibrant city life and easy access to nature. This experience has been full of joy, surprises, and new challenges, but what really makes my stay easier is the place itself and the wonderful friends I’ve made here.

And finally, what’s an interesting fact about yourself?

P: As an introverted individual I take time to feel at ease in unfamiliar settings. However, I am passionate about evolving, learning and like to challenge myself beyond my comfort zone.

M: It’s hard to say whether I’m “interesting” or not, but I do know that having dyslexia has shaped the way I see myself and the world. It’s pushed me to find my own ways to feel capable and confident. I enjoy playing guitar and drums, painting, going to the theatre, and of course, I’m a big fan of video games. My friends often say I’m a great cook, and they jokingly call me “Google” because I always seem to know random facts – probably thanks to all the National Geographic I watched as a kid. I’ve shared plenty of funny moments with friends, since I love joking around (though I admit I can sometimes be a bit of a troublemaker). Altogether, these parts of me help me express myself and connect with others in my own unique way.