The centerpiece of the evening was the screening of the multiple award-winning short film, “Pizza, Democracy, and The Little Prince.” This heartwarming film told the story of Syrian refugee children in Istanbul who formed unexpected bonds with international students, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. Their shared interests in pizza, football, and literature, including an Arabic copy of “The Little Prince,” revealed a surprising amount of common ground, showcasing their resilience and humanity in the face of adversity.
Following the screening, a distinguished panel engaged in a thought-provoking discussion:
- Elena Horn, the film’s director and a freelance Documentary Filmmaker with an extensive portfolio.
- Paolo Romano, elected to the Council of Milan’s Municipality 8 and is the appointed councillor with delegated responsibilities for Welfare and Health, Environment, Youth Policies, and Multi-zonal Pole.
- Marcello Rossoni, Head of Milan’s UNHCR office with previous field experience as Regional Director for Intersos in the Middle-East, bringing deep expertise in refugee issues.
The discussion was moderated by Maurizio Del Conte, a Professor of Labour Law at Bocconi University, who has held influential positions in labor market policies.
This event provided a platform to explore stories of resilience, challenge stereotypes, and promote empathy towards refugees. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with professionals, students, and academics from diverse backgrounds, fostering understanding and inclusivity.
We thank all those who attended this important event and contributed to changing the perception of refugees in the West. Together, we can make a difference.