Rita C. Severis, Honorary Consul of Canada in Nicosia, Cyprus

Rita C. Severis has served as Honorary Consul of Canada in Nicosia, Cyprus since 2010 and is one of the most effective and dynamic honorary consuls in Cyprus. With access to an exceptional network in a broad range of circles, including academia, media, business, political and cultural sectors, Dr. Severis is able to open doors towards many vistas. Invariably dedicated about everything she takes on, Rita Severis reflects the very best of Canadian values.

Born in Nicosia, Dr. Severis studied Philosophy at University College, London University, (BA Hons); received a Diploma in Journalism from the London School of Journalism and a PhD in History of Art from the University of Bristol.

Her work experience includes a period at the Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Press and Information Office in Greece with special assignment to the Presidency. Since 2000 she has been working as a freelance consultant on antiques and works of art and a freelance researcher, writer and lecturer and is the author of many books and a large number of articles on Cyprus. Rita Severis is the co-founder and Executive Director of the Costas and Rita Severis Foundation, a non-profit organisation for the promotion of Cypriot culture, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.

Rita Severis was awarded a certificate of Special Congressional Recognition by the U.S. House of Representatives, (2001) was decorated by the French Government Chevalier dans l’ Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (2007) and by the King of Sweden in 2010. She is the Honorary Consul of Canada in Cyprus since 2010.

She is married to Costas Z. Severis and has three sons.