Zenon Severis – Honorary Consul of Finland in Cyprus

The Severis family’s cooperation with Finland reaches far back. Zenon’s grandfather, also named Zenon Severis, was appointed Finland’s Honorary Consul in Cyprus in 1966. Demosthenis followed in his father’s footsteps and began as Vice Consul in 1973. In 1979 he was appointed Honorary Consul, and later Honorary Consul General in 1987. Now, the family’s work continues led by Zenon.

For Zenon Severis, taking on the position feels like a natural continuation.

“I grew up in an environment where the consulate’s activities were a close part of our family life. As a child I met several ambassadors and Finnish politicians, and our family visited Finland many times. This world is very familiar to me,” Zenon says.

Zenon studied business in England and works in the family company. In the Severis family, voluntary public service has been passed from one generation to the next. His father’s approach to the consular role has been an important example to Zenon.

“My father has been truly dedicated to his work and has carried it out wholeheartedly. It would have felt wrong not to continue this work,” he says.

Zenon says he has particularly inherited punctuality, reliability, and a strong sense of responsibility from his father.

“I am always on time, I keep my promises, and I don’t leave things unfinished. I also try to be polite and considerate of others. These are values I learned from my father and ones I consider very Finnish.”

Looking to the future

In his role, Zenon Severis wants to emphasize cooperation and dialogue between Finland and Cyprus. He also sees business opportunities in Cyprus for Finnish companies.

“Cyprus is developing as a technology hub, and Finland is known as a pioneer in technology and innovation. Cyprus can also serve as a gateway to the Balkans, Greece, Italy, and the Middle East. There is great potential here for Finnish companies. Cyprus and Finland are on opposite edges of Europe, and this is something we should make use of.”

Although his visits to Finland have mostly been linked to official duties, the country has become dear to Zenon.

“I like Helsinki. It is a calm, functional, and approachable city. I appreciate how well many things work in Finland: education, infrastructure, and the orderliness of society,” he explains. Warm memories also include Finland’s lakes and the Moomins, familiar from his childhood.

Zenon smiles when speaking about the sauna: “The sauna is important to me. I always go whenever I have the chance.”

Zenon Severis wishes to continue his family’s work as a bridge-builder between Finland and Cyprus.

“I want to help people and society. It is a core value in our family, and I consider it an honor to carry on this legacy.”

The Embassy of Finland in Nicosia wishes Zenon Severis success in his role. Our close cooperation now continues with the third generation. At the same time, the embassy extends its gratitude on behalf of itself, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, and all Finns to Honorary Consul General Demosthenis “Timo” Severis and his wife Daphne for their dedicated service to Finland and the Finnish people over the past 52 years. Our ties remain warm. Ευχαριστώ πολύ!