The ever-growing ALTO family (Australian-Italian Leaders of Tomorrow) made the most of Melbourne’s first truly beautiful summer evening with a rooftop celebration marking the close of another successful year of events.
With the impressive dome of the Supreme Court of Victoria behind him, ALTO president Adrian D’Aprano opened the event from the terrace of PKF’s offices, one of the association’s longstanding sponsors.
“Welcome to our ‘Night on the Terrace’. It’s wonderful to see you all here this evening as we celebrate another incredible year for ALTO,” he said.
D’Aprano then reflected on the year’s three major events: the sports-focused evening featuring AFL stars Adam Cerra, Orazio Fantasia, Anthony Koutoufides and football great Aurelio Vidmar; the real-estate night with Giovanni Abelardo, Adrian Ziccone and Peter Letieri, whose practical and insightful advice captivated the room; and Viralissima, an evening dedicated to influencers and AI experts that drew a particularly young crowd—clear proof that well-designed programs can engage professionals across generations.
“In all these events, one thing has been evident: ALTO thrives because of you—our members, guests, speakers and partners,” D’Aprano continued.
“Every event, every conversation, every connection is made possible by this community. Your support, energy and passion for celebrating Italian heritage and professional excellence are what make ALTO truly special.
“Tonight is about recognising that and celebrating together.”
He went on to thank the committee for its work throughout the year—Marco, Linda, Cory, Leticia, David and Juliet—as well as Abruzzo Lab for the exceptional catering and Zanga Imports for filling glasses with an array of outstanding Italian beverages.
After Christmas wishes and a well-deserved toast, the evening moved into full swing with platters of sizzling chicken and lamb arrosticini, a generous spread of antipasti and organic drinks imported by Fabio Zanga and Fabio Perretto from Zanga Imports.
Founded just three years ago, the small import company is already making a name for itself thanks to its inventive takes on the classic Aperol Spritz and a more natural non-alcoholic aperitivo featuring a deep orange hue derived from black carrot juice.
Their selection also includes craft beers from Naples and a range of aperitifs from Friuli and Veneto.
Committee member Leticia Ficarra said she was delighted with the association’s achievements this year and excited about the opportunities ahead. Fresh off winning Italian Business Woman of the Year at the recent Business Awards Gala hosted by the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Australia for Victoria and Tasmania, she shared one of her favourite moments: a phone call from her mother.
“She bought Il Globo, saw my name and called me all excited saying, ‘You’re in Il Globo!’ I told her, ‘Ma, buy lots of copies!’”
Despite the ambitious careers and high-profile roles many ALTO members hold in Australia’s competitive market, the group’s trademark Italian warmth and authenticity remain its defining strengths.
“We’re very proud to be Italian,” shared D’Aprano, “Yes, we’re young, but we want to carry on our traditions and keep the community united here in Melbourne.”
