(Apr. 23) “We young migrants are proving that Italy is far from the stereotypes ‘pizza, mafia and mandolin’. We want to feel respected, we want to be valued, we want to show our talent. ” So says Ilenia Barnabè, 22 years from Faenza, who lives in London, via Bologna, Oslo and New York: “I graduated in Communication Sciences at the University of Bologna, and during my studies I spent a year abroad in Oslo. After discussing the thesis I moved to New York where I did an internship for the RAI. I worked for RAI Corporation in Manhattan. I loved the city so much and it was a good experience. In late January 2012, however, the internship was over and I moved to London, where I live now. In the last months – says Ilenia – I worked with Slow Food, organizing a festival here in London. In the meantime, I am doing another training in a promotional agency.” Ilenia doesn’t hide she pays the rent working in a pub, but she hasn’s lost ambitions, plans and aspirations: “My dream is to work in TV production and I’d like to attend a master’s degree in film and new media.” Ilenia explains that today more than ever it is easy to meet young Italians abroad: “Working for RAI in New York I was in contact with Italians and here in London every day I know Italians who live and work here . The thing that makes me very happy is to see that these people built a solid career: many brand managers, many working in banks, insurance and real estate agencies. And, above all, they did so without recommendations. We Italians have shown that we want to work, to get involved and be appreciated.” “I do not know if I will come back to Italy,” concludes the young expert in communication “I don’t miss Italy that much and for now London is my home.” (PO/Gil/Peg)
