Highlights
- Ms Fragkioudaki was amongst the ethnic cohort that set the foundations for SBS
- She became a single mother in the ‘70s
- Her choice prompted from criticism and bullying to threats and even professional hurdles
Ms Fragkioudaki recalls the day she gave birth itself as an Odyssey.
“This is the first time I speak out and the first time I attempt to bring these memories back to life.
“Because the good thing is that I moved on. And I did so by turning page and never looking back.”
She chose to share her story though the very platform – SBS Greek radio (then 3EA at its beginnings) – where she gained prominence as one of Australia’s most renowned Greek broadcasters.
Ms Fragkioudaki had to deal with many Greek community members that deemed her decision “shameful” and “unacceptable” for societal standards of the time.
“It wasn’t easy, I struggled with myself in figuring out what I should or shouldn’t do,” she admits.
“Everyone’s biggest concern back then was what will people think of our actions.”
When she fell pregnant, she wrote a letter to her father in Greece.
Shortly after he passed, and she decided to name her child after him – Yianni – despite not knowing yet whether it would be a girl or a boy.
Her son, she states, was “a gift from God” giving her reasons and energy to overcome the backlash coming from all sides: individuals, community groups and the church.
“All doors would be shut, I was unable to find a job, didn’t have anywhere to live, thankfully I didn’t think of taking my life…”
Even walking past Melbourne’s Greek hub in the CBD was an ordeal.
“[They were telling me] I was an offence to them, I was told never to go past Lonsdale street again.”
Press play on the main photo to listen to the podcast with the interview.
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