On Monday 18 September, the Junior class at Marco Polo – The Italian School of Sydney held its end of term Presentation Week. In a heartwarming display of creativity, enthusiasm, and a genuine love for Italian culture, the Kindy-Year 3 were provided with a platform to share with their families and the community their passions for Italy in the form of captivating 1-2 minute speeches. The event was a resounding success, with parents, teachers and members of the Italian-Australian community gathering to witness the impressive showcase of young talent. Each presentation began with the evocative phrase, “La mia passione Italiana è…,” setting the stage for a captivating exploration of various aspects of Italian culture.
Miss Emma Giudice, teacher at Marco Polo, opened the event, welcoming all parents, guests and CNA members for their support of the school and of students in their learning experiences. The young presenters left no stone unturned, bringing props, donning Italian attire, and crafting visually engaging slideshow presentations to accompany their speeches. This not only added an extra layer of excitement but also showcased their creativity and dedication.
The range of topics explored during Presentation Week was as diverse as the students themselves. Some students delved into the world of Italian soccer, sharing the adrenaline-pumping highs and the passionate lows of this beloved sport. Others celebrated the rich flavours of Italian cuisine. Family bonds were celebrated by some, who eloquently expressed how family forms the heart and soul of Italian life.
Mario Soligo, Vice-President of Club Marconi attended the event, speaking on behalf of the Board, together with fellow Directors Anthony Paragalli and Fernando Pellegrino, and the Club’s CEO Matthew Biviano. “There’s two types of people in this world. Italian and those who want to be Italian! On behalf of Club Marconi we wish to thank each and every one of you for being part of this work with and for the Italian community, which is absolutely outstanding.
“We want to thank CNA, the Marco Polo Italian School and all its members and teachers for what you’ve done over the years. I think it’s absolutely sensational and we as Club Marconi have always supported its work in our community because we truly believe in our italian roots and the need to preserve them. Our Italian roots are something which are extremely important.”
“Being parents and being grandparents we must always remember to pass our heritage, language and culture down to our kids. Think of our culture, of what makes up our special DNA. Think of our culture. Our art. Our history. Our food. Our fashion.”
“Think of what we have brought into this world. That is something that always should be passed down to our children. Because as we all become older, our kids being at this age, they tend to gravitate more and more to our culture.”
“Nothing is too difficult nor should we dismiss learning the Italian language and rediscovering culture as not being important. We must be responsible to our kids and to our grandkids, to instil the fundamental value of what we are as Italians. Yes, we live in Australia but our DNA is something which is truly special.” Finally, once again, thank you for having us here. It was a pleasure. As you can see, there’s a big representation from the board. We would like to express our gratitude and are proud of the support we give to this wonderful organisation. And please remember: there are two people in this world. Italians and those who want to be Italians.”
Fortunato (Lucky) Legato, representing Liverpool Catholic Club, was also in attendance at the special end of term event. LCC also supports CNA in its projects for the local community. “Thank you to Miss Emma Giudice for the magnificent job with the students at Marco Polo. I came as a young 10 year old to Australia and I know how important it is for us to preserve our culture and heritage. I’m now a father of two boys, one’s 36 and 38.
They can both speak Italian and English and I am very proud of this.” “We believe that much needs to be done for the Italian tradition to keep on going and its people like yourselves who work tirelessly for the Italian community, especially in Liverpool, Fairfield, and all the western suburbs here that make such a difference. I particularly thank all the parents for taking time to be here today and support their children. We, Liverpool Catholic Club, are committed to supporting you in any way that we can.”
After the presentations, students, parents, and friends enjoyed a refreshing break, savouring delectable refreshments thoughtfully prepared by the Marco Polo School. The shared moments of laughter and conversation over Italian-inspired treats added a delightful final note to this memorable celebration of young talents and their boundless passion for all things Italian in the final week of Term 3.
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