The Pontian Association of Montreal was founded in 1964 by Greek immigrants of Pontian heritage to preserve their culture, language, and traditions in Canada. Initially, it served as a social hub for Pontians to gather, reminisce about their homeland (“patrida”), and bond through events like the annual dance and smaller gatherings called sinestiasis.

In 1971, the association rented its first official space on Park Avenue, forming its first dance group and establishing itself as a cultural promoter. In 1977, it took a major step by purchasing its own building, making it one of the few Greek associations in Montreal to do so. The new building, called the Syllogo, became a central hub for Pontian culture with daily activities and growing dance programs.

The association thrived until a fire in 1990 caused significant damage and led to a decline in activity and enthusiasm. However, they never skipped a single annual dance or sinestiasi. From 1991 to 1994, they focused on rebuilding, with renewed efforts to engage the youth. This led to the creation of the Pontian Youth of Montreal (PYM) in 1991. Although PYM briefly folded in 1993, by 1996, a new wave of young leaders revitalized the council.

By the late 1990s and early 2000s, the youth played a leading role, organizing more elaborate events, improving outreach, and raising awareness about the Pontian Genocide. Renovations and modernization followed, along with greater media presence and connections with officials.

Despite some internal disagreements over the years, the association remained unified, democratically run, and volunteer-led. Now with over six decades of history, the Pontian Association of Montreal stands as one of the most successful Greek cultural organizations in the city, with a strong foundation and a future driven by its younger generation.

Board of Directors:
Mania Papadopoulos, President
Stella Adamidis, Vice-President
Nikki Kourouniotis, Secretary
Evangelia Papadopoulos, Treasurer
Kasandra Fotiadis, Youth Representative / Dance Teacher
Kerri Stefanidis, Dance Teacher
Sofia Stefanidis, Social Media
Effie Iordanidis, Board Member
Anna Metikidou, Board Member

Activity program:
Dance pratice:
5-12 years old Fridays at 7:00pm
13+ years old Sundays at 3:00pm

Events calendar:
May 9, 2025 Youth Fundraiser, Cake decorating
May 18, 2025 Church service in memory of the Pontian Genocide
May 19, 2025 Laying of the wreaths in memory of the Pontian Genocide
June 20-22/2025 Pan-Pontian Youth conference in Philadelphia
Aug.2025 Youth Fundraiser, Car wash
Aug.2025 Start of dance classes
Sept. 2025 General Assembly and elections
Sept. 2025 Back to school sinestiasi
Oct.2025 Youth Fundraiser
Nov. 2025 Casino Night
Dec.2025 Christmas sinestiasi
Dec.21/2025 Youth Fundraiser Christmas carolling

The number of members of the Association is about 50 families