Greek Cypriot property entrepreneur John Christodoulou, 53, relocated in 1974 with his family to London, where he trained at the age of 17 as a diamond mounter. He then created a successful jewellery business, manufacturing, retailing and designing his own brand. Following the purchase of small properties, the jewellery business was sold to focus solely on real estate. The Yianis Group was subsequently founded and the company successfully developed over 10 million square feet of real estate, of which the majority is still currently held as long-term investments in the portfolio. Since then, the group has also acquired a number of four and five star hotels, such as the Four Seasons in Canary Wharf, London as well as numerous commercial and residential estates. A handshake and trust has created relationships with the likes of renowned brands to be occupiers of the Yianis portfolio such as: Marriott, Hilton, Radisson, Virgin as well as local governments and well-established businesses. The group also provides quality accommodation for thousands of residents.
In recognition of his entrepreneurial success, Mr. Christodoulou has been awarded the prestigious IN Business award for “Foreign Based Cypriot Entrepreneur”. Additionally, he has spoken on panels such as The Economist at the London Stock Exchange relating to future business growth.
Over the last 25 years Mr. Christodoulou has donated to many charities and causes. With the goal of maximising the impact and quality of his support, Mr. Christodoulou set up the Yianis Christodoulou Foundation, which focuses on helping vulnerable children and young people. The Foundation provides projects, grants, assets and services in areas of need. Examples to date include the full renovation of a Families & Babies Centre, and the installation of a computer lab/media rooms in underserved educational facilities, such as schools and orphanages. The Foundation has also funded Hearing Dog partnerships for deaf children, purchased specialised sports wheelchairs, and helped homeless young people. The foundation has collaborated on causes alongside Prince Charles, Prince William, Anthony Joshua and Tony Bellew.
Today, Mr. Christodoulou resides in Monaco with his wife and four children and continues to expand the assets of The Yianis group throughout Europe as well as embarking on a new Eco-friendly endeavour on a remote island off the shore of Sardinia. Moreover, The Yianis Christodoulou Foundation is increasing its support to causes within Europe impacting the lives of young children.