Introduction to Yianni Patiniotis

Director: Yianni Patiniotis

1. Where in the GTA did you grow up, and what high school did you attend?

I grew up in Toronto, near Yonge and Finch (right on the border between Thornhill and North York), and went to Bayview Glen for high school.

2. What is your current profession?

After recently finishing my undergraduate degree, majoring in Business with an Economics minor at Wilfrid Laurier University where I was a student-athlete, I plan on attending law school at Osgoode Hall beginning in the Fall of 2022.

3. What is one important life lesson in your journey so far?

Embrace uncertainty. Life happens fast, in inconceivable, arbitrary, and sometimes unfair ways. Being fully prepared for what one will encounter is difficult, and trying to limit the variability of life is nearly impossible. Instead, the ability to exhibit flexibility, adaptability, and resilience in the face of uncertainty are crucial components to help navigate childhood and early adolescence (things I myself am still trying to learn).

That's why sports are so crucial - they provide foundational life lessons that prepare our youth for the inevitable challenges they'll encounter.

4. What does the Epiphany Initiative Foundation mean to you?

EIF epitomizes an organization that understands the value of support, and showing up for others. We may not realize it at the time, but balancing academic and athletic endeavours can place an extreme emotional and financial toll on young children and their families, potentially hindering their performance in both areas. These unappreciated barriers can be dramatically lifted by someone simply showing up for youth during a time of need, whether that be financially, emotionally, or socially. To me, EIF is an example of a group of people that recognize the value of showing up for others, which means participating with the intent of being a voice, advocate, or active supporter to help those in need navigate the unknowns of uncertainty and inspire resilience and confidence in the face of adversity.