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Nov. 9 - Nov. 16, 2003 |
New Recognition for a New Generation
Italian-Canadian business-people express willingness to export experiences to Italy
By Niccolò Marras
Originally Published: 2003-11-02
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Antonio Marzano
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We must find the way towards a new Italian Renaissance," was the heartfelt appeal that summarized the speech given by Joe Bova from Winnipeg, the founder of a construction empire that after 31 years in business now extends over all of Canada, with five offices in the major cities and a yearly turnover in excess of $150 million.
Giuseppe Bova, originally from Calabria, spoke in English. However, he did not hesitate to switch to Italian, halfway through his speech, in order to tell Italy's Minister for Italians Abroad Mirko Tremaglia: "Until now, Italy distinguished itself for its unfulfilled commitments and promises not kept. We've been forgotten. Our love for Italy is enormous, but our respect is not: it must be deserved. On the other hand, Minister, you have both."
A simple and clear message that won the applause of the audience.
"For instance, Italy can export its knowledge on restoration of historical monuments," said Bova, "while Canada can export its knowledge in cold climate construction and energy saving systems."
Bova also indicated possible ways for promoting trade between the two countries, but added that the best ambassadors of Italian products are the millions of Italians living in Canada.
In his speech Bova also denounced that the bond with the new generations of Italian-Canadians is loosening, due to the Old Country's negligence. People cannot simply nurture the memories of a great past. Therefore, in this period of globalization that tends to exclude culture, there is a need for a new cultural Renaissance that can win back the new generations of Italian-Canadians.
If youngsters lose their Italian identity, Italy loses something as well. According to Bova, she loses much more: her ambassadors, her consumers, her business developers and her best representatives. That's why this should be seen as an investment for the future.
Alfonso Minicozzi was the second speaker representing Canada. Minicozzi, from Montreal, is the founder of Minicut International, a company specializing in the manufacture of cutting utensils for the aeronautical industry.
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