Our Team
At Connect Brussels, we are a mix of big thinkers, unstoppable doers, and caffeine-fueled optimists who believe in the power of young people to shape the future. We juggle projects, brainstorm big ideas, and occasionally lose track of our coffee cups—but we never lose sight of our mission.
Whether we are running workshops, organizing events, or turning challenges into opportunities, we bring passion, creativity, and a relentless drive to make a difference in everything we do.
Anastassios BALTAS
President & Financial Manager
Anastassios brings over four decades of professional experience in finance, insurance, and hospitality management. A certified insurance and credit broker, he has served as Managing Director of EFIA and ABA Finances in Belgium, collaborating closely with AXA as a delegated agent since 1997. With academic foundations in electromechanics and business distribution (FEBELFIN), Anastassios combines technical insight with strategic financial leadership.
As President and Financial Manager, he brings a wealth of expertise in business operations, investment consultancy, and credit services. Off-duty, he teaches martial arts and enjoys skiing—always driven by the same sense of discipline.
Eric KOTA
Youth Worker & Youth Activities Coordinator
Eric is a licensed Psychologist (Hellenic Ministry of Health Protocol No. 915605) with a strong passion for youth empowerment, digital education, and European cooperation. Since 2021, he has been actively involved in the Connect Your City youth network, participating as a trainer and mentor across local and transnational activities, supporting young people in areas such as mental health, digital skills, and active citizenship. He holds a First Class Honours degree (BSc Hons) in Psychology from the University of East London, a diploma in Digital Transformation from the University of the Aegean, and an MBA with Distinction in Global Business Management from the University of Derby.
In the field of European cooperation, Eric has designed, led, and implemented numerous projects funded under Erasmus+, CERV, CREA, AMIF, ESF+, DG calls, and Horizon Europe, as well as national programs supported by public and private institutions.
His love for AI knows no bounds. Rumours suggest that he is secretly training AI machines to conduct therapy sessions for burnt-out chatbots.
Nick BALTAS
Sustainability & Development Manager
Nick holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, a Master’s in Finance, and an MBA — a clear sign of his passion for lifelong learning. With over thirty years of experience in civil society, he has coordinated a wide range of services, primarily focused on mental health and youth empowerment.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, he has consistently volunteered in crisis situations, including wars, earthquakes, and climate-related disasters — always ready to offer help, whether with a first-aid kit or a cup of coffee.
When he’s not managing projects or supporting communities, Nick can usually be found on a long walk or planning his next travel adventure. He’s a big fan of walking meetings, which he considers perfect for both creative thinking and getting those steps in.
Evita AGAPITOY
Secretary-General
Evita Agapitou (Bachelor of Laws, MBA) serves as the Secretary-General of Connect Brussels and the Chief Strategy Officer at a pivotal organization in the mental health sector with over 15 mental health units and services across Greece and over 150 innovative methodologies through in-depth research and practical application in mental health care. Evita manages operations, ensuring the integration of quality management systems, and leading strategic growth initiatives.
Her expertise also extends to leading the organization’s crisis management department, where she has significantly contributed to humanitarian aid missions and crisis interventions internationally, providing psychosocial support to thousands of individuals affected by natural disasters and other crises.
Beyond strategy and crisis management, Evita enjoys exchanging ideas with people who share her passion for social innovation, while occasionally trying (and failing) to keep her to-do list shorter than a novel.
Ilias Michail RAFAIL
Adult Trainer
Ilias Michail Rafail has completed studies in Psychology (BA) and Adult Education (M.Ed)
He currently serves as Training Manager of Connect Your City and as a Project Manager in both national and European training and consulting programs. He specializes in Systemic-Group Therapy, and since 2007, he has been organizing Systemic Psycho-Education Groups focused on relationships — the core human process through which individuals socialize and connect.
With 27 years of professional experience, Ilias has been actively engaged in:
a) providing counseling services,
b) participating in and managing a wide range of national and transnational projects,
c) developing vocational guidance tools and educational/support materials, and
d) conducting multiple research studies.
His training approach is always aligned with the Principles of Adult Education and is deeply rooted in experiential learning.
“Connecting past and present — one beard at a time!”
Thanos LOULES
EU Project Manager
Thanos is an experienced EU Project Manager with a strong background in European project design, implementation, and stakeholder engagement. He currently leads a range of European initiatives through Connect Your City Brussels, collaborating closely with international networks and institutions across Europe. Holding an academic background in Computer Engineering and European Studies, Athanasios combines strategic thinking with hands-on execution to deliver high-impact projects in the fields of education, inclusion, and digital innovation.
When he’s not managing projects, he’s leveling up in real life—one mission, one deadline, and occasionally, one video game at a time.