Dimitris Kontopidis

Dimitris Kontopidis is a passionate social entrepreneur, with a great love for design, architecture, and innovation, and extensive experience in the field of Health and patient advocacy through different positions in national and European organizations.

HIS STUDIES
began in design obtaining a Bachelor first degree in Graphic Design (UNIWA). He attended classes at the School of Fine Arts in Madrid and is expanding his studies in Architecture (NTUA). He followed a postgraduate specialization in social entrepreneurship and solidarity economy, enriching his knowledge through participation in various business acceleration centers of the start-up ecosystem in Greece. Today, he holds a Master's degree (MSc) in "Leadership, Innovation and Value Policies in Health".

SOCIAL ENTREPRENEUR
is a pioneering social entrepreneur with different initiatives aimed at the equal inclusion of vulnerable groups, through the principles of participatory design (design thinking, co-creation, user experience), innovation, and design. Among his most well-known innovative initiatives are the following:

-HUMANE SOCIAL ENTERPRISE [2016], disability empowerment network
-PATIENTS HUB [2021]: patient innovation and empowerment hub
-ABILITIES DAYS [2019]: a festival for visible and invisible disabilities
- BREATH BOX [2017]: innovative recovery chamber EIT Health funded

-REDESIGN LIFE [2023]: construction company, specializing in inclusive design, UX Design, and accessible spaces

-GREECE NO LIMITS [2023]: platform of inclusive and accessible tourist destinations


PATIENT ADVOCATE
Dimitris has been active in health policy for the last 14 years, representing patients in international and national organizations. Separately, he served as Vice President of the European Cystic Fibrosis Association and holds the honorary title of President of the Hellenic Cystic Fibrosis Association. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was awarded the title "Patient Advocate 2019" by the European Cystic Fibrosis community for his influential work in transforming Cystic Fibrosis care in Greece. Additionally, in 2021, he was awarded the prestigious ELF 2021 award by the European Respiratory Society for his pivotal role in facilitating access to the revolutionary treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, highlighting his shocking decision to refuse a lung transplant.

Today's positions,
- President, European Lung Foundation,
- Digital Health Chair, Greek Patients' Association

Ministry of Health member committee:
- Cystic Fibrosis Registry
- Rare Diseases Registry
- Central Health Council