At STEMFREAK, our strength lies in a multidisciplinary team of educators, researchers, engineers, scientists, and innovators. Together, we combine expertise in STEAM education, neuroscience of learning, AI, machine learning, astronomy, sustainability, and R&D to deliver world-class educational innovation and industry collaboration.

Dr. Andri Vrioni — Founder & Director
PhD in Education, MSc in Science Education, BEd in Educational Sciences.
Dr. Vrioni is an international expert in STEAM education, curriculum and assessment innovation, and neuroscience of learning. She has served as Director of Pedagogical Support at the University of Nicosia, Head of Development and Innovation at UCLan Cyprus, and is currently Director of the Centre for Pedagogical Innovation and Distance Learning at EIMF. With over a decade of leadership in EU-funded projects, accreditation, and quality assurance, she has developed pioneering frameworks for STEAM micro-credentialing, authentic assessment, and digital learning.

Marilena Papaioannou — Biologist & STEAM Educator
Holds a Biology degree and a Master’s in STEAM Education. Marilena designs interdisciplinary, project-based learning experiences that link science with creativity and innovation.

Michalis Michael — Educational Technologist
With a BA in Education and Educational Technology, Michalis leads the design of LMS platforms, interactive learning tools, and digital assessment systems, ensuring technology-driven innovation in education and training.

Dr. Nikolas Kallides — Child Psychiatrist & STEAM Educator
Specialist in child and youth psychiatry with expertise in human biology and psychology. Dr. Kallides integrates mental health and neuroscience perspectives into STEAM learning, supporting both cognitive and emotional development.

Demetra Chasikou — Astronomer & STEAM Mentor
Astronomer and STEAM educator with expertise in astronomy, robotics, and electronic engineering. Demetra mentors learners in the STEAM Ambassadors Programme, preparing them for international competitions and innovation challenges.

Avgi Procopiou — Biologist, Sustainable Development Specialist
Expert in environmental science and sustainable development, Avgi develops STEAM projects aligned with the UN SDGs, enabling learners to connect science with real-world ecological challenges.

Christos Smiliotopoulos — AI & Machine Learning Expert
PhD researcher in Applied Machine Learning for Cybersecurity at the University of the Aegean. His research spans AI, blockchain, intrusion detection, and big data analytics. Combining an academic research profile with military expertise as a Signal & UAV Officer, Christos strengthens STEMFREAK’s R&D in digital resilience and intelligent learning systems.

Dr. Alexis M. Pierides — Innovation & R&D Strategist
PhD in Mechanical Engineering (CUNY), with over 25 years of experience in aerospace, biomedical engineering, telecommunications, and renewable energy. Founder of several start-ups and former Senior R&D Engineer at Huawei, Dr. Pierides holds multiple international patents and extensive expertise in technology transfer and advanced prototyping. At STEMFREAK, he serves on the External Expert Panel, providing independent guidance on innovation strategy, research impact, and quality assurance.

The STEAM Ambassadors Programme has created a growing network of graduates who return as mentors and role models. Having progressed through the 5-Level Certification Pathway, these young innovators bring expertise in engineering, coding, robotics, sustainability, and creative industries. As part of the STEMFREAK team, they:

• Coach and mentor current students, sharing real-world experience.
• Support international competitions and hackathons, guiding new cohorts to success.
• Act as role models, demonstrating how curiosity and persistence lead to careers, start-ups, and research opportunities.
• Strengthen the continuity of the ecosystem, proving that STEMFREAK is not only an education provider but a community that grows its own future leaders.