A group of smart, beautiful, and socially active women, the D.I.V.E. of Los Angeles invited a guest of honor to their November meeting: Consul General of Italy Antonio Verde. His mandate in the U.S. has just begun, and all of the most influential associations of the local Italian-American community are eager to know him better.
The extremely pleasant gathering took place on November 17, hosted by Marisa Antonini and organized by Elisabetta Ciardullo – who also coordinated the catering -, Grazia Balini, Paola De Mari, Daniela Guerra, and Sisi Catalino.
D.I.V.E. president Lucia Peretti presented the new members and introduced the associations’ history, mission, and future program of activities. As she reminded, the D.I.V.E. initiative was started in Washington DC in 2001 and replicated in L.A. since 2009. Its main objective is to help newcomers integrate in the local community by providing a network of female friends who share the same culture and language, as well as a deep knowledge of the American society.
As of today, in Los Angeles there are over 100 members of the D.I.V.E., whose backgrounds range from business to science and arts. Since its very foundation, the association has established excellent relationships with the local Italian Institutions, and in particular with the Consulate General.
Accompanied by Elisabetta Mauri, Consul General Antonio Verde expressed his appreciation and gratefulness to his hostesses for such a warm welcome. A long-time supporter of gender equality within the public administration, he praised the group’s focus on community rather than individual values and its commitment to preserving the Italian heritage.
Asked about previous experiences abroad in his 25-year career with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Consul General mentioned his mandates in Tokyo, Moscow, Sidney, and Strasbourg. He also worked at the Rome headquarters in different sectors, such as cooperation for development, the environment, and energy. Los Angeles represents for him a new exciting challenge to improve the communication between the Institutions and the community.
Before enjoying the delicious dinner, all of the attending members of the D.I.V.E. had the opportunity to shake hands, share thoughts, and take a picture with Consul General Antonio Verde.
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