Pancretan Youth Europe · since 2009

Youth

Pancretan Youth Europe (PYE) is the youth of the Cretan associations of Europe, based in Germany. It unites young people of Cretan origin from the local associations on a shared platform for culture, tradition and contemporary gatherings.

Our mission

We safeguard Cretan identity, language, music and dance for the coming generations — creating spaces across Europe where young people meet, share experiences and celebrate together, both in Crete and in the associations’ cities. Our vision: for PYE to become a steady point of reference for every Cretan youth in Europe.

Our pillars

Cultural identity Dance, music, language and customs through hands-on workshops and living experiences — not passive watching.

Networking Bridges between the local associations: every major event is a chance to bring together youth from different cities.

Connection to Crete At least one shared summer experience a year in Crete, to strengthen the bond with our homeland.

Visibility A professional social-media presence and a unified visual identity across all PYE events.

What we organise

Summer in Crete

A traditional dance event, the Beach Day and informal meetups — with live coverage on social media.

European Dance Festival

The central event of the year, with all member associations of Europe invited.

Local events

Supporting the associations’ events in their cities, with mutual invitations throughout the year.

The Board

New Board 2026–2029 · elected in Ludwigshafen, April 2026

President Γιώργος Όλοφσον

Vice-President Αντώνης Σχοιναράκης

Secretary Εμμανουήλ Κονταξάκης

Treasurer Γιάννης Μανδελενάκης

Public Relations Χριστόφορος Όλοφσον

Events Βίκτωρ Λάμκο

Culture & Music Αλέξανδρος Ξαντινίδης

News, events and moments from the Cretan youth of Europe:

Instagram TikTok

“Long live Crete — long live our youth.”

The member associations Get in touch