Athena Mandis: From Cyprus to Cinema, Exploring Identity and Migration
Athena Mandis is a British Cypriot award-winning filmmaker and educator whose work bridges the gap between culture, identity, and migration. As a Senior Lecturer in Film Practice at Queen Mary University of London, she is dedicated to empowering the next generation of storytellers. Currently adapting Soulla Christodoulou’s novel The Summer Will Come, Athena’s passion for cinematic storytelling is deeply rooted in personal experience and a commitment to exploring themes that resonate globally. Whether through her films, masterclasses, or podcasts, Athena is on a mission to inspire and lead with stories that matter.
What made you fall in love with storytelling in the first place?
Storytelling gave me a sense of order when life felt chaotic. As a child, I found sanctuary in shaping worlds — there’s a deep satisfaction that comes with a story clicking into place. It became a way of understanding life, of making meaning.
You’ve had ups and downs on your journey—what helped you keep going?
I’ve always had an inner sense that this, too, shall pass. Over time, I’ve learned to trust that voice deeply. Reciting Kipling’s If once got me through a difficult chapter and taught me to stand strong in my power. Now I approach every challenge with curiosity, asking: What is this here to teach me?
How has your background shaped the kind of stories you tell?
As a child of immigrants, I tried to fit in, for years believing no one wanted stories from a British Cypriot perspective. But my voice comes from that place, and I had to honour it. Now, my work is rooted in who I a,m and themes of belonging and identity come up — especially in projects like The Summer Will Come, which celebrates the Cypriot community’s journey to the UK.
Why does this film about starting over in a new country feel so personal to you?
Though rooted in the author’s own family story (Soulla Christodoulou), this book struck a deeply personal chord for me. I saw my mother’s journey — and the many stories I grew up with — mirrored in its pages. As a child, I never fully understood their courage to leave everything behind and begin again. This book is a moving reminder that no one leaves home lightly, and that every migrant carries an unshakable will to survive and thrive.
You do so many things—how do you keep it all together without losing yourself?
I’m great at compartmentalising. I block time for each project and focus fully on what’s in front of me. I follow Parkinson’s Law: tasks expand to fit the time you give them — so I give them just enough. It’s amazing how much you can do when you’re intentional.
Which of your current projects are you most excited about right now?
Right now, I’m excited about the fundraising gala for The Summer Will Come — it’s starting to feel very real. I’m also loving the screenwriting podcast I’ve just started with Hannah Palmer-Prior. Honestly, I feel lucky — everything I’m working on brings me joy.
Why is it important to you to teach and share what you’ve learned with others?
Teaching is more than passing on knowledge — it’s about helping students find their voice and navigate their future. It also keeps me connected to what’s evolving in the industry. I feel honoured to guide others while staying creatively engaged myself.
What do you do when you feel creatively stuck?
Creativity is our natural state — we just need to allow space for it. I meditate, journal, walk, and stay open. Stress and fear block it. Curiosity and trust always bring it back.
Has your idea of success changed over time?
It used to be about external validation. Now, it’s about doing what I love and trusting the rest will follow. Success, for me, is being able to do that which I love and that which brings me joy.
What would you say to someone scared to follow their dream?
Not following your dream is even scarier. It will stay with you, niggling at you to realise it. Start small — one small intentional action every day — and stay open. Be bold. We’re here to live fearlessly and unapologetically.
