Filippo Navarra received the Siciliani nel Mondo award, now in its second edition, “for having spread the values of Sicilian culture in his country of emigration and for having maintained and promoted ties with his land of origin."
Patron and founder of the group, Navarra, who works in the events and catering business in Sydney, received his certificate a few days ago after learning of his win during the world day dedicated to Sicilian emigrants, which was celebrated on May 15 in the Town Hall of Valguarnera Caropepe (Enna).
Navarra was recognised thanks to the interest shown in the association - which groups together island emigrants around the world - by mayoress Francesca Daià and Councillor Gian Luca Arena.
Five Sicilians have been acknowledged in the different continents where Sicilians have also set up base.
In addition to Navarra, the prize was awarded to: Salvo Buttitta, USEF Coordinator in Switzerland, and president of the new Basel Comites; German Cirnigliaro, from Latin America (Argentina); Maurizio Giangrec, an industrialist living in Dusseldorf (Germany); and a young representative of Sicilians in South Africa. Filippo Navarra, originally from Gibellina in the province of Trapani, said he was particularly excited about receiving the award.
"When I arrived in Australia, we had nothing. I started working when I was very young and, step by step, I built my career and a better future for my family. To younger people who emigrate in search of an opportunity, I want to remind you that commitment and hard work are the two keys to success. But never forget family and friends. Feeling part of a community is extremely valuable, it helps you move forward even in the most difficult times in life”.
