January 2016
Monthly Newsletter of the Professional Women’s Association of Rome
PWA is an international hub in the heart of Rome where ideas and values, tradition and innovation, diversity, culture and professionalism meet and intersect. On our journey into the future our travel companions are respect, ethics, and a sense of social responsibility.
Starting Afresh «If you do something afresh, you deal with it again in a new way» as President Valerie Baxter writes in her article on page 12. Starting afresh, therefore, doesn't mean doing new things, but doing the same things we are used to doing, but in a new, innovative manner. Easier said than done, since change is one of the most difficult things in life. It is without a doubt much easier to carry on with our old habits, methods and routines, complaining about our lives, than actually make a change and improve the current situation. And this applies to issues that range from health, money and work to relationships. So where can we find the courage, energy and will-power to start afresh? Some simple pieces of advice that come to my mind are: 1) Break the change item into smaller steps. We should not look at the change we want to make as one, unsurmountable task, but rather split it into smaller, more easily attainable steps. If we need to increase the exercise we do in a week from 0 to 4 sessions, start by first walking to work once a week, then, after some time, add one gym-night and later yet, two running ses sions. And at every small achievement, pause to be proud of ourselves and celebrate the middle-goal we've reached. 2) Join a support group. When I go out for a run on my own, I know I'll pause and start walking every time I feel a little tired or out of breath. However, if I go with a group of other runners, their energy and will power transfers into me as well, and I manage to run ten times faster and better. Group support and energy should not be underestimated and nowadays it is rather easy to find support groups; whether we want to lose weight, do more sports, stop drinking or use our money more wisely, there is certainly a physical or virtual support team ready to encourage us and give us a hand. Start your search for a Meet-Up or create one yourself. 3) Ask for help from an expert. Current communities are full of mentors and coaches trained to give advice and willing to be there for us. Some programs cost money, but there are also exchange programs − such as PWA’s TimeOut − where you can swap your own expertise in exchange for advice and support for yourself, without spending a dime. I know for a fact one of the first TimeOut exchanges will be helping each other out − one offering the best on Personal Branding/the other, Life Coaching. A great example of expert help for starting afresh! One of my favorite quotes is: Be the change you want to see in the world. (Gandhi) More often than not, important changes start from within ourselves.
Hanna
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Editing Team
Hanna Suni editor and layout designer www.hamedesign.com newslettereditor@pwarome.org Lisa R Tucci co-editor www.artemediacomm.com newsletterconsultant@pwarome.org
in this issue
4 Speed Dating for Your Business 6 Rebooting, Rethinking, Renewing − Anytime of the Year 8 Member Spotlight: Marijana P Donati − The Energizer
10 On the search for exciting, innovative stories: HITalk as Roman Springboard for a Better Future for All 12 PWA Leadership Starts Afresh 13 The James Tissot ConneXion 14 Christmas Soirèe Wrap-up
16 Let's Go Social: Digital or Traditional Networking?
17 Health in Our Hands: Get That Metabolism Going Again
18 Cultural Corner: Barbie − Much More than a Fashion Doll
Starting Afresh
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Pleased to meet you Speed NETWORKING We kick off the New Year with this unique PWA event to share your professional background and business goals. Designed to accelerate business contacts at lightning speed, you’re guaranteed to meet new, interesting people from diverse backgrounds with different professions and perspectives.
«Your last impression is usually the first impression.»
HOW SPEED NETWORKING WORKS AT PWA - Shakers will get 1 minute to introduce themselves, say what they do and what they are looking for - At the Whistle sound, Movers will have 1 minute to do the same - After each has had their turn, each partner will have another 2 minutes for further discussion - After 4 minutes is up, Movers will move to the next chair and the process will start over. Note: Be sure to prepare what you want to say (your “elevator pitch”) in advance.
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SPEED NETWORKING
ELEVATOR SPEECH
Speed networking is like speed dating for professionals. It evolved from the speed dating model of meeting a lot of people in a short amount of time. Speed networking is a structured process for facilitating introductions and conversation between people who don't know each other.
An elevator speech, or elevator pitch, is a quick synopsis of your background and experience.
The model is often employed at events for college alumni groups, chamber of commerce groups, professional organizations and associations, and college or corporate orientations to develop relationships among participants. How Speed Networking Works A variety of methods can be used to structure interaction with a common thread being the rotation of participants so that each person gets the opportunity to interact with every other person attending the event. Each participant is allotted a period of time to introduce herself (varying from 30 seconds to 4-5 minutes depending on the size of the group). Have an Elevator Speech Ready Prepare a short elevator pitch which summarizes key elements of your work and educational history as well as what you're thinking about regarding your future career path. Practice articulating this information in a smooth and succinct way within the time parameters of the event. Since speed networking is a two-way process, it is important to listen carefully to each of your partners to make sure you understand their situation so that you can offer advice and help, whenever possible. Bring Business Cards Business cards are often exchanged during speed networking events, and participants who hit it off can seek further opportunities for a one-on-one exchange afterwards. Make sure your business card includes, in addition to your contact information, a reference to your LinkedIn profile or another website containing a detailed summary on your professional background. Have Questions Ready to Ask Before you attend a speed networking event, create a list of questions to ask, so you're not scrambling to come up with questions during the process.
About Careers about.com
What's in an Elevator Speech? This speech is all about you: Who you are, what you do, and what you want to do if you're job/client hunting. Your elevator pitch is a way to share your expertise and credentials quickly and effectively with people who don't know you. When and How to Use an Elevator Pitch If you're job searching, you can use your elevator pitch at job fairs and career expos, and online in your LinkedIn summary or Twitter bio, for example. An elevator speech is a great way to gain confidence in introducing yourself to hiring managers and company representatives. You can also use your elevator pitch to introduce yourself at networking events and mixers. If you're attending professional association programs and events, or any other type of gathering, have your pitch ready to share with those you meet. It is the best way to introduce yourself to new people with a lasting impression. What to Say Your elevator speech should be brief. Restrict the speech to 30 to 60 seconds — that's the time it takes to ride an elevator, hence the name. Even though it's a short pitch, your elevator speech should be persuasive enough to spark the listener's interest in your idea, organization, or background. Your elevator pitch should explain who you are and what qualifications and skills you have. Try to focus on assets that add value in many situations. The best way to get comfortable with an elevator speech is to practice it until the speed, and “pitch” come naturally, without sounding robotic. You will become comfortable varying the conversation as you practice with it. When you aren’t interviewing for a specific position, you will want to appear open-minded and flexible. It’s your chance to make a great first impression with a potential employer. Offer your business card at the end of the conversation as a way to continue the dialog. Or your resume or short portfolio of your work, if you're at a job fair or professional networking event, will also show your enthusiasm and preparedness.
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Anytime of the year by Lisa R Tucci
www.artemediacomm.com Here are a few things I think are just terrific when you want to readjust your radar, simplify or add to your life. Estimates of the numbers of apps ‘out there’ all geared to distract you from doing whatever it was you were supposed to be doing on a regular basis range wildly. But one count − at least for Apple − is about 300,000. You can do pretty much anything and everything your heart desires on your phone. But a few of my faves are...
HEADSPACE - The new trendy app that gets you to meditate. LOSEIT - Whose icon bears a remarkable resemblance to your bathroom scale. Although not all food items are geared toward Italian dishes, you can get pretty close. And lately, I discovered ANAGRAMS which I have convinced myself is actually helping me work my brain - and they’re a whole lot easier than Suduko which I confess I never got the hang of. And…for those of you with a cool craft or hobby you’d like to gain more exposure, or sell your wares, well, look no further than Instagram. This terrific tutorial from BlogHer will show you how in a matter of seconds.
Looking to expand your horizons? Take a good look at the MEETUP Groups collecting on their page/in your neighborhood and more. There are some amazing meetups nowadays, as also referenced in our one and only Paola Devescovi’s book, 50+.com. I found Rome Explorers that is planning a snowshoeing in our backyard of Abruzzo. And speaking of backyards, if you want a quick & dirty jaunt to some ancient Roman baths, head over to Civitavecchia Nord exit, and then go on your own personal treasure hunt to get to the Terme della Ficoncella. It’s clear they want to keep this 1.50€ place a secret… No indoor changing rooms, and spared down to the minimum (but there is a bar) and after your soak, you can take a lovely walk along the paths nearby.
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This past holiday season, I went through closets looking for unused sweaters, sweatshirts, linens, coats, hats and more. And donated them to Project Rome (who also comes to collect) for the homeless or refugees. After years in my closets, I figured people could use them more than I needed to look at them. Not only that, but old couches, lamps, any bit helps − especially if you know someone moving house. A book that also can make a difference if you need a sort of 12-Step Method to de-clutter is, It's Hard to Make a Difference When You Can't Find Your Keys by Marilyn Paul Or, the newly penned Spark Joy - a Master Class on the art of organizing by Marie Kondo.
Speaking of books, I am a huge fan of Audio Books. I listen to them and radio shows religiously, when I’m in my car, on a train or out and about with my dog, Arcibaldo. Right now, AUDIBLE is offering a 30-day free trial. Try Always Hungry? A way to conquer your cravings, or the masterful tome, Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand. As for radio shows, I have STITCHER on my phone. From there, I listen to BBC Global News, Comedy Shows, NPR Broadcasts of This American Life and Fresh Air, and my very favorite programs, Snap Judgment, Serial, Life of Caesar Podcast and it’s polar opposite, A Course in Miracles with Jennifer Hadley. Audio or Youtube broadcasts are wonderful, such as Cheryl Esposito’s interviews with world class luminaries, on her Leading Conversations series.
And finally, for your business… there are tons of amazing resources out there, often showing up on your LinkedIN newsfeed. A few that have caught my eye lately: • • •
Go beyond a boring PowerPoint presentation with these free iPad apps This Content Marketing Toolkit And, from AdsBridge.com - something that has made it onto my desktop, this terrific visual graphic on improving your landing page, which I will adopt on my website that I have in the works! But most importantly, do something BIG for yourself RIGHT NOW: GOOGLE YOURSELF/your name/ your business. Find out what’s appearing, what needs deleting, and how you are ‘showing up’ in our digital world. Particularly, one caveat − How your offspring may be linked - despite anonymous posting − unbenownst to you. Keeping an eye on your digital presence is a great way to see where you’ve been and where you want to go. This story from BlogHer, one of my most preferred online magazines, reveals one mother’s experience.
Click here to tell us about the changes you’ve made!
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MARIJANA p DONATI
THE ENERGIZER
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arijana P Donati, over a cup of white tea, opened our conversation with a simple, yet enigmatic question: «What is happiness?» This outwardly energetic, but highly insightful woman had clearly searched for the answers. In her quest, she has encountered people in constant search for happiness outside their personal sphere – a new partner, a new apartment, a new car, convinced that once they have attained one item or another, their lives will change for the better. But Marijana firmly believes that happiness comes only from within. «If you’re not happy within yourself, if you don’t find your own internal equilibrium, you won’t find happiness externally». Forging a New Year resolution over the Epiphany in 2015, Marijana took measure of her own lifestyle, and had her own epiphany. She decided to leave a successful career to open a new chapter in her life – «Love» - with her Roman husband, Stefano. Armed with a Masters degree from the University of Sussex, she became a Junior Advisor and head of the office of the IMF - International Monetary Fund in her native Bosnia-Herzegovina. Later, as Chief Economist and advisor to the CEO of the largest bank in her country, she thought she was quite content inside her comfort zone. But happily ensconced inside her tidy box was suffocating; professionally, she thought that she wasn’t making much of an impact in the society in which she lived, nor the world. The results she obtained weren’t tangible. So she took a bold step out of her box, packed her bags and started to explore the outside world. The first leg of her journey of discovery brought her to Rome, to join her husband, her greatest supporter. She was confident in finding a new career where she would see and feel immediate results. Determined to make a paradigm shift both inwardly and outwardly, she plunged from macroeconomics to the clean or green economy. As a green macroeconomist, she was offered a partnership in Powersave Solutions Ltd. (UK), precisely the type of company in which she could make a difference. For starters, as Managing Director for Italy, she could be instrumental in reducing companies’ carbon footprints here and in the world.
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Alongside her husband and daughter, Marijana’s unbridled energy also comes from sports, a crucial element in her life. As an accomplished sportswoman, her passion takes many forms: hiking, diving, tennis, horseback riding, ski alpinism, and yoga. “Sports keep you in good shape, both mentally and physically enabling you to be in control and live your life to the fullest”. She is proud of her achievements which include organizing the first business women tennis tournament and generating technological innovation in schools to enhance students’ preparation by donating computers and video projectors. Not one to sit on her laurels, she recently became president of the parents’ council of a
primary school. She even established a non-profit (2011-2013), the Athene-Centre for Education Research & Development, whose aim was assisting youth education. Back in Rome and speaking to students at her daughter’s school, St. George’s International School, Marijana encouraged youngsters to dream and fulfill their dreams; in the belief that we should all follow our dreams, even if they are not exactly what our parents have in mind for us. A lifelong dream for her was to honeymoon in a water bungalow in Bora Bora. And she lived this dream! Describing indelible reminiscences of what was a truly remarkable trip, she recounts time spent on a deserted 7km long beach in Tasmania, swimming with ray fish and black tip shark. In New Zealand, she descended via a 100m cable into a cave where glowworms illuminated the ceiling just like a «pinpoint led» star-spangled sky. As «Kiwis» would quip, she «tramped» (hiked) 20km between active volcanoes at Tongariro Crossing to reach the peak, only to discover the impossible made possible: three lakes vividly hued in green and blue – glimmering in stark contrast with the ashen grey surroundings. In Australia, the Aborigine people impressed her with an amazing story about a mining company that offered an unheard of $300 mln to exploit uranium − but were handed instead a curt refusal, «Money means nothing to us». Through PWA, Marijana is able to identify herself and her career, asking not what she can get out of it, but what she can give. Distancing herself from the money economy, in her ongoing desire to assist society, Marijana joined PWA’s TimeOut pilot project. Walking the talk, she says, «Everyone can share knowledge with each other − we are all connected». She became one of the founders of the newly formed Rotary International in Rome, stemming from her previous experience in Rotary Club Gloria. But happily for PWA, Marijana is already giving: as a Main Sponsor, Powersave Solutions Italy will accompany and support us on our own journey of discovery over the next two years! In PWA she feels welcome, supported, and part of a truly international group. She likes to acquire new knowledge through PWA conferences, appreciates the feeling it gives her of the way others want to do things, and the ability to listen; thus facilitating her untiring efforts to transfer her own energy to others. Making the most of every moment, Marijana’s motto is, «Life is too short to be little». With a life in balance, thankfully enjoying every day for what she has – ever dependent upon positive thoughts, energy and a healthy dose of happiness that radiates wherever she is. After all, for Marijana, «A life is a reflection of thoughts» − as one Dr. Valery Sinelnikov could attest and getting to know Marijana, so could I.
«Happiness is the light within yourself» 9
On the search for exciting, innovative stories HITalk, a Roman springboard for a better future for all by Hanna Suni www.hamedesign.com How often do HITalks happen? HITalks are held every two months. In addition, there are Special Editions that we create as external events or special events for companies. We organized a HITalk for Wind and one for the Rome Film Festival at the MAXXI Museum where we had Luigi De Laurentiis and Enrico Vanzina among the speakers. What kind of audience does HITalk want to attract? Our target audience is built of curious people who are hungry for stories, individuals who do not want to give up their dreams easily.
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f you plan to attend the next HITalk event, you'd better book your ticket NOW. HITalk, founded in June 2014 by Akiko Gonda (Japan) and Marie Gabrielle De Weck (Switzerland), follows the international concept of an inspirational event, where experts share their stories with the public. PWA met Akiko in her Rome office to talk about HITalk and the secrets behind its success. The slogan of HITalk is Inspire, Motivate, Reflect. Could we say HITalk is an Italian version of the international TEDxTalk concept? Yes, it is similar to TEDx, but with several elements that make it different: less rigid, more immediate and lively. We have removed many limits that TEDxTalks have to ensure that the evenings become more spontaneous. The heart of HITalk is positivity and above all, sharing. With the aim to Inspire, Motivate and Reflect, HITalk creates storytelling events in which six Italian characters, each who have excelled in their field, tell the story of their professional and personal successes. Fulfilling our dreams is possible, we just need to believe in them and work hard in order to make them come true! The most important thing for us is to share good stories; it does not matter where they come from. What we create together that evening is all that truly counts. This is the message we want to communicate at HITalk, especially at this historical moment when we are bombarded with discouraging news every single day. Where are the events held? HITalks are held at the LUISS ENLABS StartUp Factory in Via Giovanni Giolitti, 34, on the second floor of Termini Station. It is a 2000 sq met open space where young people work tirelessly to realize their visions. HITalk could only talk of positivity in such an environment!
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Who attends? Professionals, students, young entrepreneurs, housewives; in fact we see people with the most diverse backgrounds. The common denominator are the stories. Anyone who wants to listen to captivating stories knows that HITalk excels in telling them. Perhaps some come the first time because they are eager to meet a specific speaker and then return for another HITalk because they’ve fallen in love with the format. How does it work? Is it a moderated panel or does each speaker get their turn? Each HITalk speaker has 12 minutes to tell their story, one at a time. Questions are not allowed by the public during the event. However, anyone can approach the speakers during the Welcome Cocktail before the event and the Final Cocktail afterwards, where we serve drinks and snacks. Creating connections and sharing themes is the key aspect of every HITalk. The events are conducted by a moderator who introduces each speaker. What kind of feedback have you received from past events? Feedback is always quite positive. Our guests are passionate about the format, our stories have always been found interesting. The only negative feedback has been the difficulty of finding the venue the first time people come. Located on the second floor of Rome’s Termini Station, to reach our space you have to find the elevators of Via Giovanni Giolitti, 34. I have read that every speaker invites a future speaker to the next HITalk. How does that work? Yes, exactly: Every speaker will have brought in a presenter of their choosing for the following HITalk. We do not limit the topic. Our only requisite is that the story inspire, motivate and make the public reflect. Based on these guidelines we ask each speaker to nominate who they think could present an appropriate story. The more diverse the stories are, the happier we will be. We want HITalk to be transversal and to embrace a whole world of themes and concepts.
So who decides the theme of the evening? The theme of the evening is chosen by the organizing team according to the stories that will be presented. We try to choose a theme that fully reflects the excellencies that will go up on stage. Until now, the theme has emerged very naturally without any forcing from our part. The 10th edition, Collectivity as an Energy Source, will take place in the end of January. What is it about? We are at the 10th edition (or 12th if you count our special editions) and we are very proud of this result! The six “excellencies” that will enliven the evening on January 28th are all people who work within the Rome community, in its various forms: How to communicate to the whole community by Michele Favorite, Professor of Business Communication & Public Relations at John Cabot University. A united community creates a bank that can better reflect the needs of its citizens by Dario Brollo of Banca Etica. Giorgio De Finis, Director of Rome’s MAAM - Museo dell‘Altro e dell’Altrove - Museum of the Other & Elsewhere - which has become an important reference point for many non-mainstream artists who have found here a place for recognition and sharing. Paul Caesar, Co-founder of NATIVE, the first Italian ForBenefit Corporation; a company that has happiness and development as its social aim as well as economic growth. Maria Cristina Ferradini, Head of the Department of Sustainability and Foundation of an important international telephone company. And finally, Fabrizio Maffei, a journalist who for years has accompanied the Sundays of millions of Italians, and who has promoted collectivity both in sports as well as in other social activities. Do you know of something (an innovation, a product, a service, etc.) that was born from a HITalk night? During the 7th HITalk, we gave voice to a spontaneous citizen movement called WakeupRoma. Alessia
Mollichella, Vice President of an existing association, RetakeRoma, was a fabulous speaker. We were all so excited about her story, she left us with a dream of cleaning up our city and making it shine once again. Another speaker that exxening, Roman actor Carlo Verdone, was also impressed by Alessia’s story, so much so he became a supporter of the movement. He wrote a beautiful support letter to all the "retakers," encouraging them to continue their activities and to never give up. The Retake movement sees the commitment of thousands of citizens armed with scrapers and solvents to spend some of their free time cleaning the walls and streets of the city. During this HITalk evening WakeupRoma was born. It involves RetakeRoma and LUISS ENLABS. The event will take place on Saturday, March 12, 2016 and will bring together large companies, celebrities and ordinary people, to awaken Rome from its deterioration. For more information: www.wakeuproma.org What happened with the birth of this movement fully reflects the aim of HITalk: Sharing ideas and bringing together the most diverse people who are seemingly distant, creating a virtuous circle that will form new, positive networks and above all, bring forth proposals and initiatives. Alliances that will give life to a better future. What enthusiasms you the most about HITalk? There are several exciting things about HITalk. The highlights for me include the sharing of ideas, making connections between people (WakeupRoma is a great example) and the positivity we want to convey. The emotion that rises from every HITalk is impossible to describe, it needs to be experienced! Our participants, both the speakers and the audience, simply fall in love with HITalk… Come and experience it for yourself − the 10th edition on January 28th! Tickets can be purchased directly online from our website: www.hitalk.it.
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by Valerie Baxter Full Steam Ahead
PWA LEADERSHIP STARTS AFRESH «AFRESH» According to the Cambridge dictionary, «If you do something afresh, you deal with it again in a new way». Do you ever get bored with doing things the same old way? Does your calendar repeat conventional appointments or schedules day after day? Is your vocabulary full of the same words? If life gets dull, sometimes you just need to push the reset button and start afresh! «Why records are meaningless: UK Athletics' plans to start afresh miss the point − Football reset its stats with the introduction of the Premier League and Champions League but what are the point of records anyway?» Violet Piercy was the first woman to hold the world marathon record. In 1926, she ran from Windsor to Battersea in 3hr 40min: considerably slower than the current mark set by Paula Radcliffe in 2003, but then comparing the two is problematic. Piercy was running on public roads and frequently had to dodge traffic. Photographs show her wearing a thick collared sweater and stiff leather buckle-up shoes. She had no coach, no physio, no dietician. Then again, recent research indicates she took a shortcut through Hounslow and only ran 22 miles, so maybe chalk that one up as a win for Paula. And so to the radical suggestion, advanced by UK Athletics this week, that all track and field world records be struck from the books, so their beleaguered, drug-tainted sport can make a fresh start. − The Telegraph, 15 Jan 2016 Ignoring the pros and cons of the above case, it proves the point that it’s not the result that matters, it’s how you reach that result. At our Christmas Soirée, Newsletter editor, Hanna Suni was crowned Winter Queen 2015 (Translation for men out there: «Dare a Cesare quello che è di Cesare» − Give Caesar his due), marking the mid-way toward our PWA Woman of the Year Award. In her usual modest way, apart from her surprise (definitely not ours) at being selected amongst so many eligible women to reign until May 2016, she asked what she’d done to deserve the title. So, for those of you who would like to know what it takes to receive the nomination, and to get yourself in the running perhaps, let’s take a look at how the result is reached. Because it’s certainly not quite Game Over. Our Winter Queen is the person who has attended 100% of our PWA events from September. In addition, she also brings significant contributions to PWA amongst the value criteria below: • • • • • •
Brings guests to PWA Conferences/ConneXions Writes Articles for Newsletter Participates in special workshops or member events Introduces members/sponsors/partners to PWA Donates or procures prizes for raffle Volunteers significant time to PWA activities – in Hanna’s case, a total eye-catching redesign of both the PWA website and Newsletter!
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• • • • •
Posts in social media with continuity Contributes feasible ideas and/or conference speakers/ topics Is an active & friendly networker Promotes/supports other members Has special personal achievements
PWA «The People We Are» starts afresh In May 2015, serious about taking on the pressing challenges of our time, we needed fresh ideas about the art of leadership in PWA, new approaches to practicing it, and courageous minds willing to make that journey. We wanted to solve complex, urgent problems − particularly those that entangle business activities, governance and human needs. So we needed to tackle system change for sustainable development, re-imagine leadership as a collaborative endeavour, retrain leaders to work collectively, and manage diverse groups through a change process that has sustainability plus innovation as a guiding focus. Urgent challenges require new forms of collaborative inventiveness, and people who are willing to implement change collectively at all levels and in all areas of our global society. With the advent of our moniker, «The People We Are», we set ourselves a new mission. Our journey started in September 2015, with the formation of a highly competent team of women functioning in collective leadership and ready to take on this urgent challenge. Last month’s issue told the story of the challenges we faced in «Around the PWA in 90 days» − together we made great strides toward accomplishing much, yet we still have more unmapped terrain to discover. Collective Leadership is the capacity of a group of leaders to deliver their contribution to a joint purpose collaboratively while putting high priority on the common good and striking a balance between the needs of people, profit, and planet. Or put quite simply, problems held in common require solutions developed and agreed upon in common. Our world now more than ever is interconnected. Turning the challenges of complexity and interdependency into opportunities requires more than passion, intuition or excellent plans. Solutions to interconnected challenges cannot be found in isolation, neither can they be reached using the same old methods. Therefore, we constantly need to shift the way we co-create. The following months will see our Board & Team collaborate in new ways to produce a new policy for leadership in PWA and drive international membership to new levels. As we start afresh in 2016, collaboration in an association is not only paramount, it is the only way to success. So we’re counting on our members to energize this collaboration. Together, we can all make a fresh start to new actions and ideas implemented for a new beginning for PWA!
The James Tissot ConneXion Text and photos by Hanna Suni
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1 - La Japonaise au bain, 1864 2 - Kathleen Newton in An Armchair, 1878 3 - Self-portrait in 1865 4 - The Gallery of H.M.S. 'Calcutta' 1877
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ur first Cultural ConneXion of the new year took place on January 17th. It was a beautiful demonstration of the diverse expertise that PWA members represent. Art Historian, entrepreneur and Tour Guide, Laura Rizzi, did a wonderful job in introducing both members and guests to the world of James Tissot (15 October 1836 – 8 August 1902). A French painter and illustrator, Laura’s intriguing stories, lively questions anecdotes and materials really brought the paintings to life. Both children and adults were hanging on her every word, while enjoying the works hroughout the entire visit.
Tissot was a successful painter of Paris society before moving to London in 1871. He became famous as a genre painter of fashionably dressed women who he depicted in various scenes of everyday life. Portraits of his companion, Kathleen Newton, as well as other high society women and men were characterized by a photograph-like sharpness and precision. Tissot was truly a master in capturing colors, textures, expressions and a number of graceful poses on canvas. The ConneXion ended with a visit to the museum shop and a lovely interlude over a cup of tea at the Chiostro del Bramante. Thank you, Laura, for a perfect Sunday afternoon mix of cultures, friends and fun!
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The traditional PWA Christmas Party was held last December at the recently renovated and luxurious Grand Palace Hotel on Rome’s fashionable Via Veneto. Over fifty PWA members and friends gathered together to inaugurate the holiday season in grand style.
Newsletter Editor Hanna Suni was crowned Winter Queen 2015 for her on-going presence at PWA events and other contributions to the association's activities and successes. Rosemary Aspinall, Michelle Bassanesi, Isabella Cattan, Michela Lazzè, Olga Plyaskina, Rossana Scazzocchio, Monica Sorcetti, Luisa La Via and Lisa Tucci were other Woman of the Year nominees. Congratulations to everyone!
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PWA President Valerie Baxter was delighted to host our outstanding group of guests including the PWA madrina and Italian Senator, Monica CirinnĂ , and longtime past member, Swee Khoo visiting from Malaysia. Alessandro Caporalini, President of Federprofessional was also present. PWA has launched a TimeBank project, TimeOut, together with Federprofessional and is looking forward to the sharing of professional services in 2016 without exchanging money.
PR and Sponsorship Co-Director Marta Schneider together with Secretary Edna Francis and Social CoDirector Adriana Tempesta organized a splendid raffle with fabulous prizes ranging from African Safari trips to coaching sessions, from wines and liqueurs to ceramics, books and scarves. PWA raised important funds for good causes such as Rotary International projects! We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our raffle sponsors and donors.
Party sponsor RoC gifted every guest with two facial creams from their exclusive line of products. Apart from the gifts, we all left the party filled with good food and wine and our hearts full of warm holiday spirit. Congratulations to Social Director Isabella Cattan for having organized such a successful party to end the 2015 "in bellezza"!
Photos and text by Hanna Suni www.hamedesign.com
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let’s go“social”
by Paola Devescovi www.projectprosperity.com
DIGITAL OR TRADITIONAL NETWORKING?
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e hear a lot about social media these days. You can blog from a coffee shop, tweet from a conference, post pictures and images from behind the scenes of your business; and you, too, can become a 24x7 marketing machine. Use Facebook to speak to your clients' hearts and amass enough «friends» to develop an endless stream of new clients. Indeed the way we communicate with our customers is changing rapidly. We no longer rely exclusively on advertising and press releases to get our message out. The new media environment has turned every business into a fount of information, education and even entertainment. This new environment has also changed the way we network, probably the most important activity one should engage in when building a business or a career. No business nor career can flourish without a qualified network of contacts that can be turned into customers, partners or collaborators. But which works best—digital or traditional networking? I would say both. But the potential of digital networking still is often neglected, particularly here in Italy. So if you haven’t tapped into networking opportunities across the «digital sphere», following are 4 essential tips to create successful personal and professional connections: Clean Up Your Social Media Accounts! We’ve all come across profiles with questionable pictures that can instantly change your perception of a person. Always be mindful of what you are posting online; after all, your professional contacts may view your personal profiles too. Be professional with all things you do publicly. Remove tagged pictures that may hurt your image. Steer clear from tweets and status updates that may be offensive as well. Get Personal on LinkedIn LinkedIn is THE most important Social Media channel for networking. Most professionals will accept LinkedIn “invites” faster than Facebook “Friend Requests”. It is important to know the do’s and don’t’s of LinkedIn and approach people according to LinkedIn netiquette. I engage regularly with my “key” contacts and participate actively in Groups. If you do that too, you will see your network grow faster than ever.
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Be Active in PWA LinkedIn and Facebook Groups It’s very nice to meet each other at PWA ConneXions and Conferences. But do we follow up after the event is over? I know we are all very busy with our lives, and finding the time for a coffee or aperitif to learn more about each other may be difficult. But our groups are a great opportunity - and a safe place - to share ideas and interests, engage in conversations and exchange views. Here are links to join in the PWA conversation if you haven’t done so yet LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/ groups/2048317 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ professionalwomenrome/ Explore Meetup.com Still little-known in Italy, Meetup.com is a great place to find community groups of interest to you, and find out their meeting times. The website has been known to link the right individuals together. I make extensive use of this platform to network when I’m abroad, and I must say I have grown my network of international contacts exponentially. Practicing these important tips on a daily basis will help you create a powerful network of targeted contacts. And with the right planning and tools (it can take as little as 10 minutes a day!), those networking tasks you hate can be easily streamlined and, in some cases, put on autopilot.
IN OUR HANDS
H E A LT H
GET THAT METABOLISM GOING AGAIN
I
t sounds simple. But in order to lose weight and stay fit, you need to speed up ​​ your metabolism. The metabolism inevitably slows down with age, and from 40-45 years onward, a sedentary lifestyle often contributes to the slowdown, even though we can still be considered rather young. Therefore, it is beneficial to take a series of measures that can give a healthy and awakening shock to your body that has gotten too lazy and far too comfortable in its own skin. Homeopathy is one of the many available remedies. There are several natural substances that are able to revive the metabolism such as: Lycopudium Clavatum, Fucus, a seaweed containing iodine salt, and Ginseng, considered the accelerator of metabolism par excellence, equipped with a dual action as it functions as an energizer as well as reducing the accumulation of body fat. You should also take into consideration Cola, green tea and white willow; all triggers of thermogenesis that promote the use of body fat as an energy source. It is known that muscle mass needs more energy to keep itself active compared to fat mass. This is why an important way to accelerate the metabolism is to increase physical activity. The type of exercise needed to increase metabolism is aerobic, that is, running, walking, cycling or exercising on a cyclette or a treadmill. Aerobic exercises make the muscles work and consume a large amount of oxygen and
by Monica Sorcetti www.chiedialladottoressa.com
also involve a several muscle groups increasing the energy expenditure and calorie consumption. Aerobic exercise should be practiced for at least 20-40 minutes at a time, so as to activate the lipolysis and to burn fat. To this activity corresponds, inevitably, an increase in metabolic rate, when such activity is carried out at least 4-5 times a week. If you do not have time for physical activity, you can take advantage of your usual, daily tasks, such as: taking the stairs without using the lift, parking the car a bit further away from your destination or, if you use public transportation, getting off a few stops earlier. Your diet also has a major influence on your metabolism and some foods are real accelerators, such as, chilli, ginger and curry. They raise your body temperature, promote thermogenesis and therefore help burn fat. The capsaicin in chili peppers has a stimulating effect, as well as bromelain contained in pineapples. The most common mistake that many people who want to lose weight make is dedicating themselves only to physical activity without realizing that it is necessary to supply the body with all the nutrients it needs. Otherwise, you run the risk of triggering a sort of self-cannibalism; that is, the body starts burning muscles rather than fat, so you need to use common sense and not overdo the change of lifestyle.
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Barbie - much more than a fashion doll!
CULTURAL CORNER
By Laura Rizzi www.laltraroma.net
O
ver Christmas holidays, I went back to my hometown and fascinating city on the move, Milan. There, I visited the newly opened MUDEC: a new Museum of Cultures, located in the old Ansaldo area of Porta Genova. Built over 12 years by British architect, David Chipperfield, it is a brilliant example of salvaging disused factories. Beautifully spread out over 17,000 square metres, it is a symbol of Milan’s industrial past. Multifunctional, it encompases the municipal collection of ethnographic material, an auditorium, library, theatre, design store and the Mudec Junior for children. Last October 27th 2015, the Permanent Collection dedicated to extraEuropean masterpieces and connected to the Forum of Cultures, opened to visitors. It will remain free of charge until August 31st 2016. You can spend all day in the Mudec, going up and down to see the four temporary exhibitions hosted
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in different sections and levels of the museum. Right now they feature «A Beautiful Confluence: Anni and Josef Albers and the Latin American World», «Milano Città Mondo. # 1. Eritrea/Etiopia. Images & Histories», «Gauguin - Tales from Paradise» and «BARBIE - The Icon». You can also take a nice break in the cafeteria-bistro or have lunch in the elegant rooftop restaurant, both managed by Giacomo Bulleri. I admired the Paul Gauguin exhibition selected as the opening show for a series of events dedicated to the great artists. Who could express better than Gauguin the revolutionary fusion of such vastly different cultures than the artist who mixed the European avant-garde with the Primitivism of Polynesia? Not only paintings but also sculptures and pottery vases by Gauguin are displayed in sections decorated with ethnic materials such as wood, canvas, bamboo to recreate the exotic atmosphere of Tahiti.
But to be honest, this time, I went to Mudec for her, for Barbie!
that allowed her to be an independent woman and a professional.
I approve the choice of Massimiliano Capella, curator of this very unusual exhibition for an Italian museum, who wrote that, «Calling her a doll would be belittling − Barbie is a global icon who has managed to knock down every linguistic, cultural, social and anthropological barrier, and in her 56 years of life, has represented fifty different nationalities.»
Barbie has represented more than 150 different careers: Starting out as a model and fashion editor, she became a teacher, a doctor, and even an astronaut (much earlier than our own Astro Sam, way back in 1965 and inspired by Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman in space in 1963), a veterinarian, pop singer, dancer, chef, hairdresser, police officer, business executive, United States Air Force jet pilot, ambassador for world peace (1986) and UNICEF (1989) and up to a presidential candidate in 1992.
Growing up in the 1970s and ’80s, I loved Barbie. So for me and I believe also for many other young women, the exhibition is «a leap back to our childhood» but also an opportunity to follow step-bystep, from the 1960s up to now, the evolution of our women’s world. For this reason, the exhibition is not only for children − although Mudec has dedicated some play areas where they can find rooms and pink furniture typical of Barbie’s house − but is especially for adults. I know very well that, Barbie, as every global phenomenon, is not loved by everybody, probably because some consider her superficially only the prototype of a beautiful blond and blue eyed - stupid girl. The show, articulated in five sections, tells the true story of one Barbara Millicent Roberts. This, I discovered, is her full name, after being created by Ruth Handler on March 9th 1959. The doll was given the same name of Ruth’s daughter, Barbie, with the purpose to offer «a new kind of doll» to all children. Ruth said, «Barbie has always represented that women have choices.» In fact, Barbie is forever stuck in her early years − never married, not even to Ken, she wasn’t the perfect wife and mother. Nor was she a «fashion victim», either. She has always been a clever girl with talent and a strong fashion sense
How Barbie’s look has changed through the decades Always elegant and with the times, sporting fabulous dresses designed by the most famous fashion designers such as De La Renta, Armani, Versace, Dior, Escada, Karan, Moschino, and D&G. Next will be Lagerfeld! In 1982, Mattel introduced the «Dolls of the World» collection. Marvelous dolls representing different cultures and types of beauty from all around the world. It’s true «Barbie has crossed distant eras and lands, representing some 50 different nationalities, and bolstering her identity as a mirror for the global imagination.» In the last section, Barbie pays personal homage to famous female icons such as Cleopatra Barbie or Queen Elizabeth I Barbie, Breakfast at Tiffany’s or Scarlett O’Hara Barbie and even pop singers, Barbra Streisand Barbie and, most recently, Jennifer Lopez Barbie. The take away from this extraordinary exhibition is for everyone - especially little girls - that anyone can grow up to be whatever she wants to be!
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Powersave Solutions Ltd., with more than 20 years of experience, provide business to business energy saving lighting solutions through the supply of retrofit high grade LED lighting which can produce significant electricity savings of up to 70% while making a sustainable and responsible contribution to helping the environment. Our projects to date include commercial business centres, shopping centres, sporting centres, industrial manufacturing facility, hotel, cafeterias, health care facilities, etc. Industry and commercial buildings account for more than half of today’s energy consumption and at Powersave Solutions Italy we choose the most appropriate energy solution for each organization supporting its sustainable growth. In today’s world with high energy prices and rapid climate change, Powersave Solutions Italy provides proven expertise in developing, constructing and operating greener and more economical energy lighting products. By manufacturing our own products we are in a better position to offer significant benefits in terms of volume, prices and warranty terms, innovation and design. In line with government directive, all lamps that are lower than grade B will be banned starting from September 2016. LED’s are A classification and offer better durability, longer life, unrestricted design, safety, longevity and more economical than any other light on the market.
Life Coach Italy è una libera Associazione di Professionisti esperti e qualificati, che operano da anni nei vari settori, con aziende e strutture pubbliche e private e che condividono la medesima etica e approccio metodologico. Life Coach Italy contribuisce allo sviluppo sostenendo le persone e le organizzazioni nella loro totalità, migliorando la qualità della vita privata e professionale. Life Coach Italy offre una serie di servizi integrati e innovativi caratterizzati da: • Competenza • Personalizzazione • Trasparenza • Privacy
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Members’ Milestones
Two dynamic PWA Members join forces! Listen in to Paola Devescovi's Prosperity ON AIR when she interviews Lisa R Tucci on her 30 year career working with Italy, and on Education that Matters! Please send us your professional and personal milestones so we can celebrate together!
«For two years, Hanna Suni edits and coordinates the entire graphic aspect of all the books I publish: from cover images to illustrations, from page layout to managing contacts with the printing house and to designing promotional materials for books and book presentations. Her precious contribution to the growth of my publishing house consists in her humble, yet knowledgeable approach, her unerring eye for detail, her precision and rigor in delivery, but also her ability to anticipate my needs by offering new ideas and elements. She provides her technical expertise with generosity and discretion.» − Chiara Turozzi, L'Iguana editrice
Hanna Suni, illustrator and graphic designer From creative planning and design to effective implementation.
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Upcoming events February ConneXion:
Let's go toNY
Via delle Botteghe Oscure 32/A
Wed, February 3, 18:30 Price: 15 â‚Ź members and guests
February Conference (in Italian):
Let's Talk About Sex Sexologist Valentina Cosmi Hotel Aleph Roma
Wed, February 20, 19:30
PWA in 2015-16 ConneXions 3 2 6 4 8
February March April May June
PWA ConneXions are held at different Roman venues Stay tuned via direct email, social media and our website
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PWA conferences Hotel Aleph Roma Via San Basilio 15 (Via Barberini)
Conferences 17 February Special Events 16 March 8 March IWD 15 June Summer Party
Check out www.pwarome.org
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Membership news New Members Welcome!
We would like to welcome Annalisa Cicherchia as member and Alessandro Antibo as Friend of PWA who have recently joined our Association. PWA is a place that grows with each member, therefore we are looking forward to enjoying PWA together with you! If you’d like to join, visit our website and contact MembershipDirector@pwarome.org
2015-2016 PWA Board and Team members President Valerie Baxter President@pwarome.org Secretary Edna Francis Secretary@pwarome.org Treasurer Michelle Bassanesi Treasurer@pwarome.org Programming Christine Sterpetti Programming@pwarome.org Membership Olga Plyaskina MembershipDirector@pwarome.org Corporate Member coordinator Maria Banks MembershipCorporate@pwarome.org Associate Member coordinator Nicole Giacomarra MembershipAssociate@pwarome.org Social Isabella Cattan SocialDirector@pwarome.org Social Co-Director Adriana Tempesta SocialCochair@pwarome.org PR & Sponsorship Christina Barbiero Sponsorship@pwarome.org PR & Sponsorship co-chair Marta Schneider PR@pwarome.org Newsletter Hanna Suni NewsletterEditor@pwarome.org Newsletter editorial consultant Lisa R Tucci NewsletterConsultant@pwarome.org Webmistress Rossana Scazzocchio Webmistress@pwarome.org Community Director Paola Devescovi Community@pwarome.org Mentoring Program Manager Maria Letizia Nesta Mentor@pwarome.org Luisa La Via Mentor Think Tank Michela Lazzè SpecialProjects@pwarome.org Think Tank Alessandra Tacconelli Thinktank@pwarome.org Media communications assistant Katia Ingegneri Media@pwarome.org Legal Advisor Caterina Flick Legal@pwarome.org
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