About Us
Welcome to STANDOutEdu
STANDOutEdu is the education and training brand of STANDO LTD, a Cyprus-based organization active in research, innovation, and professional development. Accredited by the Human Resource Development Authority of Cyprus, we offer professional and academic trainings under Erasmus+ KA1 and KA2, as well as courses, seminars, and consulting services. Since 2016, our qualified team has collaborated with international partners on co-funded projects to drive innovation and societal development.
Visionary Commitment to Education
At STANDOutEdu, we believe education drives progress and societal development. Since our inception, we have provided innovative programs and research initiatives to enhance education globally.
Expertise in Erasmus+ Training Courses
We specialize in high-quality Erasmus+ training courses for educators and professionals across Europe. Our tailored programs enhance skills, foster innovation, and drive positive educational change.
Impact through Collaborative Projects
Beyond Erasmus+ courses, we engage in projects and partnerships through programs like HORIZON, INTERREG, CERV, FORWARD, AMIF, COVE, CB VET, CB YOUTH, CB ADULT, POLICY EXPERIMENTATION, and VIRTUAL EXCHANGES FOR SOUTH MEDITERRANEAN . We collaborate to exchange best practices, promote innovation, and address societal challenges.
Passionate Team of Education Innovators
Our team of academics, researchers, and practitioners are committed to excellence and next-generation learning. We support sustainable development in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Join us in redefining education and creating a brighter future. Together, we can make a difference.
To create innovative learning experiences, advance impactful research, and develop research‑guided teaching practices that improve education and empower learners, educators, and partner institutions to grow, excel, and shape a better future in an ever‑changing world.
To be one of Europe’s premier research and educational organizations, recognized for excellence in research breakthroughs and high-quality learning opportunities for learners, educators, and partner institutions across diverse contexts.
1. Educational Excellence & Innovation
- Develop and deliver high-quality, innovative educational programs grounded in evidence-based practices.
- Expand lifelong learning and professional development opportunities across diverse audiences and sectors.
2. Research Leadership & Impact
- Conduct and disseminate leading-edge research that addresses emerging needs in education and society.
- Increase participation in competitive EU-funded projects and strengthen the quality and impact of research outputs.
3. Strategic Partnerships & Alliances
- Build strong, long-term collaborations with universities, research centres, NGOs, and industry partners.
- Contribute expertise to European and global networks focused on education, innovation, and capacity building.
- Strengthen coordination and collaboration with STANDO LTD’s affiliated companies to maximize shared expertise, enhance project impact, and ensure consistent quality across all joint initiatives.
4. Organizational Capacity, Quality & Sustainability
- Strengthen internal competencies through continuous professional development and quality assurance processes.
- Develop, implement, and continuously update organizational policies and procedures to ensure clarity, consistency, and compliance across all departments and affiliated companies.
- Ensure operational excellence, financial sustainability, and adherence to European standards and best practices.
- Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and inclusion, promoting a respectful and supportive environment where all staff can thrive.
Meet Our Dedicated Team
STANDOUTEDU
Management
THEODOROS GOUNARIS
Managing Director
THEODOROS GOUNARIS
- moc.dtlodnatsobfsctd-290363@sorod
He is a university graduate of the UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN ONTARIO (UWO) CANADA (BESc. Mechanical Engineering) and he has an MBA from the Cyprus International Institute of Management. He is an ICT expert, and he has been working on many projects over the past years, materializing actions relating to technical and informatics aspects of the projects. He has vast experience in the management and implementation of various projects, with an emphasis on ICT technology and its positive and negative effects on people and societies.
Theodoros has been actively working in the fitness industry since 1990 as a Group Fitness Trainer. He has over 30 years of experience in the field of fitness and he possesses numerous Group Fitness Diplomas and Certificates from worldwide recognized fitness organizations. Through STANDO LTD he established and owns 2 fitness centers by the name EUPHORIA Bodies in Motion. Also, STANDO LTD is the sole agent in Cyprus, Greece, and the Balkans of MOSSA USA, one of the biggest international players in the field of pre-choreographed group fitness programs, with Theodoros being a certified MOSSA trainer in 10 different group fitness programs since 2010.
Lastly, Theodoros is a graduate of the IFBB Academy (International Federation of Body Building & Fitness) and is actively exercising the profession of the Body Building & Fitness Trainer.
DR. ANNA NICOLAOU
Non Executive Director
DR. ANNA NICOLAOU
- moc.dtlodnatsobfsctd-7f8a07@anna
Anna is a researcher in the field of Environmental Education (EE) and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). She worked at Frederick University and European University as a Visiting Lecturer in teaching EE/ESD. Her research interests focus on the design and implementation of environmental and sustainable development programs in formal, in-formal, and non-formal education, in individuals’ professional development in EE/ESD, and gave counselling and advisory service to companies on how to become environmentally, socially and economically sustainable.
She is the author of various educational materials for sustainable development issues. She has published and presented her work in EE/ESD international scientific journals and in international conferences. She was part of the Scientific Team in the preparation of the National Strategy for EE/ESD in Cyprus. She has long experience in EE/ESD and in training students, teachers, individuals, companies, and various target groups in EE/ESD issues, as well as in Curriculum Development and implementation.
Standoutedu
Our Talented Team
MENELAOS LAMBIS
Proposal Writing Coordinator
MENELAOS LAMBIS
- moc.dtlodnatsobfsctd-46df96@soalenem
Menelaos is a Sociologist who graduated with a BSc in Social Sciences (University of Cyprus) and an MSc in Global Studies (Lund University, Sweden) with a specific focus on group and national identities in modern and post-modern history. He mostly focused on the development of nationalism in Great Britain from the very beginning of the First Industrial Revolution in the mid-18th century until the 2016 BREXIT referendum.
Menelaos has also approached his academic focus through post-colonialism, which is a lens that is set in colonized countries or deals with post-colonial issues (such as identity, culture, politics, and economics). During his years in Sweden, Menelaos has also attended credited courses in European Studies (Malmö University) and European History (Uppsala University).
Menelaos has previously worked as an EU Project Manager and an author of several successful EU-funded projects with a focus on under-represented groups (mainly women and LGBTQ+ individuals). He has also provided several educational training sessions to immigrants, seniors, high school students and educators, and VET trainers.
MERVE BUBA
Head of Project Management
MERVE BUBA
- moc.dtlodnatsobfsctd-499fdf@evrem
Merve is a conservation biologist who graduated with a BSc in Biological Sciences (The University of Nottingham) and an MSc in Endangered Species Recovery & Conservation (Nottingham Trent University) in the United Kingdom.
She mostly focused on marine conservation as well as has an experience with field and laboratory work on many wild species, practical conservation, and environmental education. Merve was a team leader for sea turtle conservation project at Society for the Protection Of Turtles for 1 year and then got offered a coordinating position at Cyprus Marinelife Centre for sea turtle conservation for 2 years.
Moreover, she has hands on practice with other species of wildlife and she actively participates in numerous research projects regarding the flora and fauna of Cyprus. Merve also has a pedagogical formation (teaching certificate) that lets her teach about wildlife, environment, and conservation. She is dedicated about raising awareness and educate as much people as possible to keep world’s life cycle running with sustainable resources.
Merve is currently involved in projects related to the environment – i.e. BeePro, on the Rational use of plant protection products and fertilizers in terms of the impact on bees in the ecosystem (VET); Games4ClimateChange, Empowering Youth to tackle Climate Change through Game-Based Learning (YOUTH); and BlossomingCities, A Pollinator-friendly training model for Urban environments to tackle the decline of wild pollinator populations (VET).
Damla Kiral
Senior Project Manager
Damla Kiral
- moc.dtlodnatsobfsctd-847045@almad
Damla is a conservation biologist and project manager with expertise in biodiversity research, wildlife management, and conservation. She is currently pursuing a PhD, investigating the phylogenetics and biogeographical history of selected mammals of Cyprus. She holds an MSc in Conservation Biology from University of Derby and a BSc (Hons) in Zoology from University of Manchester.
Professionally, she has managed and supervised numerous EU-funded and internationally-funded projects, ensuring high-quality implementation across sustainability, environmental education, agriculture, and inclusion themes. Previously, as Department Manager at the Wildlife Hospital and Rehabilitation Centre of the Cyprus Wildlife Research Institute, she led wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, research, and team management, working with a diverse range of native and exotic bird, reptile, and mammal species.
Her work integrates scientific research, conservation practice, and strategic project leadership to advance biodiversity conservation at national and international levels.
ZOI TOUTOUNTZIDOU
Senior Project Manager
ZOI TOUTOUNTZIDOU
- moc.dtlodnatsobfsctd-3c1c4d@ioz
Zoi, a cognitive psychologist, is an expert in linguistics and cognition with dual master’s degrees in cognitive neuropsychology and cognitive-educational psychology. Her substantial background in special education, neuropsychological assessment, and rehabilitation, along with previous roles as an academic advisor, learning support assistant, and cognitive rehabilitation officer, have endowed her with comprehensive insights spanning cognition and education domains.
STEFANIA IOANNIDOU
Digital Marketing Manager
STEFANIA IOANNIDOU
- moc.dtlodnatsobfsctd-87cdda@ainafets
Stefania Ioannidou is a Social Media Marketing Manager with over 7 years of experience. Her expertise lies in the realms of effective communication, content creation, and marketing strategy, and she possesses a genuine passion for all things digital.
In her role as a Digital Media Manager at STANDO LTD, Stefania holds a pivotal position where she takes charge of creating, maintaining, and overseeing the company’s websites and social media presence. Her responsibilities encompass the crafting of tailored online content, ensuring consistent branding across various channels, and facilitating a seamless dissemination process for Erasmus+ and Horizon projects.
Beyond her marketing expertise, Stefania is also a certified Evidence-Based Coach and is currently pursuing her degree in Psychology. Her professional background in Coaching complement her marketing skills, enabling her to bring a multifaceted perspective to her work.
Her profound interest in VET (Vocational Education and Training) project trainings underscores her commitment to the growth and development of individuals and organizations. Her ability to merge strategic digital marketing efforts with a deep understanding of human behaviour and effective communication makes her a well-rounded professional who can contribute to the success of various projects and initiatives.
VASSOS HADJIVASILIOU
Web Designer / Developer
VASSOS HADJIVASILIOU
- moc.dtlodnatsobfsctd-13f427@sossav
Vassos earned a BA in English Language and Literature and spent over a decade managing an English Institute in Nicosia, where he developed strong leadership, communication, and educational skills. Motivated by the rapidly advancing digital world, he shifted his focus to website design and development, combining his creativity and technical expertise to craft meaningful and engaging online experiences.
With over eight years of experience, Vassos has specialized in designing and developing diverse websites, including high-performance e-commerce platforms, for a wide range of businesses in Cyprus. His work reflects a deep understanding of user experience, functionality, and brand alignment.
Certified in Online Advertising and Digital Marketing, Vassos brings a strategic edge to his projects, with expertise spanning email marketing automation, sales funnel optimization, advanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and multimedia production using tools like Photoshop and Camtasia. His ability to merge technical proficiency with creative design ensures every project delivers measurable results.
At STANDO LTD, Vassos oversees the design, development, and enhancement of the company’s websites and eLearning platforms. His commitment to staying ahead of digital trends ensures these platforms are not only functional but also engaging and strategically positioned for success in a competitive online marketplace.
Rea Christofi
Οffice Administrator / Training Coordinator
Rea Christofi
- moc.dtlodnatsobfsctd-666ae9@noitartsinimda
Rea is an Office Administrator with several years of experience in office management and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Management) from the University of Nicosia. She plays a key role in the coordination and smooth operation of KA1 projects, ensuring that all organizational aspects run efficiently throughout the training week.
Rea is known for her energetic and enthusiastic character, bringing meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and excellent communication abilities to her work. She thrives on coordinating complex tasks, supporting diverse teams, and facilitating seamless interactions between participants and trainers.
Her extensive experience in office administration, combined with her dedication to effective project management, allows her to contribute to the success of educational initiatives while maintaining a positive and productive environment.
As an office administrator, she approaches her work with great passion and enthusiasm, always striving to learn and give her best self in every task she undertakes.
Androula Nicolaou
Accounting Officer
Androula Nicolaou
- moc.dtlodnatsobfsctd-2befc0@gnitnuocca
Androula is an experienced Accounting Officer with over 40 years of professional experience in accounting and financial management. Throughout her career, she has been responsible for overseeing financial operations, bookkeeping, and the management of accounting procedures, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficient financial administration within various organisations.
She graduated from the Faculty of Economics and Management of Senior High School/College, developing a strong foundation in financial management and business administration. In addition to her formal education, she has participated in several professional training courses related to merchandise management, bookkeeping, and financial administration, further strengthening her expertise in accounting practices and commercial procedures.
At STANDO Ltd, she supports the organisation’s financial management processes, ensuring accurate bookkeeping, financial compliance, and efficient administrative support for the implementation of European projects and organisational activities.
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