Anna Katavolada

My name is Anna Katavolada, and I am a graduate of the Department of Language and Intercultural Studies (DLIS) at the University of Thessaly (2023). Greek is my native language, and I also speak English and German. Through my academic studies, I became familiar with Arabic and Chinese as well, enriching, in this way, my multilingual and intercultural background. Since 2021, I have been a member of the research group “Volos Linguistic Landscape Research Group” (VLLRG), through which I was introduced to the world of research, teaching, and education. In 2023, I participated as a volunteer/researcher in the research project ACTinPRISON – “Interaction matters: Research on the development of alternative curricular experiences for young prisoners and prospective teachers”, which marked a turning point in my journey. During the same period, I was actively involved as a lead instructor in a shelter for unaccompanied minors in Volos, where I piloted the implementation of an innovative teaching material. Since 2024 and up to the present, I have been a member of the “Amalinoglossa”, which promotes the learning and dissemination of the Romani language. Looking ahead to 2025, I am excited to embrace a new professional identity—that of a trainer at EPANODOS (Legal Entity of Private Law), supporting the development of language literacy among Arabic- and Turkish-speaking students. At the same time, I remain an active volunteer in correctional facilities, mainly in the region of Magnesia. Beyond the fascinating world of learning, I am also involved—on an amateur level—in digital creation, including image design, logos, posters, and short video production. If I were to summarize the essence of my journey so far in one sentence, it would be this: “Believe it or not. RESEARCH.” because judgement gains depth only when it is grounded in knowledge.