Biography
Who is Elena Kountoura?
Early life and education
Elena Kountoura was born in Athens, Greece, as the daughter of Alexandros Kountouras. Her father was a former officer in the Hellenic Army. Starting at age twelve, she trained as a high jumper at the National Gymnastic Academy of Greece. She later graduated from the Department of Sport Science and Physical Education at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.
During her youth, she competed as a top athlete for the Greek National Track and Field Team. In 1978, she secured victories in both the high jump and the 100 metre dash at the Panhellenic Women's Track and Field Championship.
Modeling and fashion career
From 1984 until 1997, she pursued an international career in modeling. In 1990, CNN named her one of the ten most beautiful models in the world. She worked extensively with French photographer Serge Lutens and became a recognizable face for the Japanese cosmetics company Shiseido.
Her work appeared in various international campaigns throughout this period. She remains an agency-represented model, currently working with Stars Model Management in San Francisco.
Political career
She entered politics in 2004 when she was elected as a Member of Parliament for Athens A representing the New Democracy party. She served as the Minister of Tourism in the cabinet of Alexis Tsipras until 2019. In January 2019, she was expelled from the Independent Greeks party due to her support for the government regarding the Prespa agreement.
Following her departure from that party, she was elected to the European Parliament as a member of the Syriza party during the 2019 elections.
Family and personal life
Elena is married to Sarantis Papachristopoulos, a former basketball player for Panellinios and Olympiacos. She was previously married to soccer player Michel Pineda. She has two sons named Alexandros and Marios. Her brother, Nikos Kountouras, serves as her political adviser and has a background in the modeling industry.
Beyond her political duties, she is a philanthropist who has acted as a goodwill ambassador for UNESCO and UNICEF. She also founded the organization Europa Donna Hellas. She speaks English, French, and Spanish in addition to her native Greek.
Birthday and age
Elena Kountoura was born on November 2, 1962, which makes Elena 63 years old today. That birthday falls under the Scorpio sign. Elena shares the date with 28 other famous people.
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