ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

George Paraskevaides: A Cypriot Philanthropist and Businessman

George Paraskevaides, born on October 16, 1916, in Athens, Greece, was a renowned Cypriot businessman and philanthropist who made significant contributions to the construction industry in Europe and the Middle East. He is best known as one of the co-founders of Joannou & Paraskevaides (J&P), a global construction giant that has been instrumental in promoting Cyprus on the world stage.

Paraskevaides' family moved to Cyprus when he was very young, and he studied architecture at Politecnico di Milano in Milan, Italy. Following his graduation, he joined forces with fellow Cypriot Stelios Ioannou after World War II, and together they founded J&P. The company's success can be attributed to Paraskevaides' vision and leadership, which enabled it to expand into dozens of projects throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

Under his guidance, J&P became a major player in the construction industry, with notable projects including military contracts in Cyprus during World War II. The company's growth was facilitated by Paraskevaides' close friendships with influential international figures, which helped to promote the culture of Cyprus worldwide.

In addition to his business acumen, Paraskevaides was also known for his philanthropic work. He played a significant role in building an organ transplant center at the University of Cyprus and received several honors for his charitable efforts, including being knighted by Queen Elizabeth as a Knight of the Order of the British Empire.

Paraskevaides' legacy extends beyond his business achievements. As one of the first Greek Cypriots to work and do business in the Gulf region, he helped facilitate international understanding and cooperation between Cyprus and other nations. His contributions to the construction industry have had a lasting impact on the global economy, while his philanthropic efforts continue to inspire future generations.

Paraskevaides passed away on December 5, 2007, at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential Cypriot businessmen and philanthropists of all time.