In this heartfelt episode of The Good Italian Girl and Friends, Claudia Callisto warmly welcomes her long-time friend Anna for a deeply engaging conversation. 

Together, they delve into their shared experiences as first-generation daughters of Italian immigrants in Australia, reflecting on the unique blend of challenges and joys that shaped their upbringing. 

With vivid anecdotes, Anna paints a touching picture of her family's journey, highlighting the sacrifices made by her parents and the significance of maintaining cultural traditions in their new homeland.

Anna opens up about her personal journey, starting with her early memories of growing up in a tight-knit Italian-Australian community. She shares how her parents, determined for their children to achieve more than they had, were instrumental in shaping her path. Her mother, in particular, was a guiding force, instilling in her a strong sense of family and duty.

Despite initial reservations, Anna stepped out of her comfort zone at the age of 40 to pursue a passion for public service, running for local council elections with Campbelltown Council. To her delight, she won in her first campaign and has since been re-elected multiple times. Now, 14 years later, Anna holds a respected position as the deputy mayor, making a significant impact on her community.

Throughout the episode, Anna reflects on how her cultural heritage has given her the resilience and strength to face life's challenges with positivity. Her story is not just one of personal triumph but also a testament to the enduring influence of cultural values and family traditions.

Don't miss out on this inspiring episode filled with laughter, nostalgia, and valuable insights into the Italian-Australian experience. Tune in to The Good Italian Girl and Friends and join Coralie and Anna as they explore the power of tradition, the importance of family, and the courage it takes to step into leadership.

Chapters:

(00:00) Good Italian Girl podcast features first generation daughters of immigrant parents

(01:31) Anna Nadlaid joins us on Green Hill Road this morning

(01:46) Now please introduce yourself and how we know each other

(02:17) John was part of the first generation of his family born in Australia

(07:46) My parents were very hard workers. Market gardening was six and a half days a week

(12:09) So how hard was it growing up in Australia at that time?

(14:12) You actually mentioned about the dinner table. But was it a bit like in your home

(16:27) Maria says her favourite memory growing up was dancing with her dad

(20:44) Your favourite Italian song is el tul Mondo by Claudio Villa

(21:01) So growing up in the younger days, in the eighties and nineties

(23:17) Both your families come from the same village in Italy

(27:11) That's how we used to meet people back in the day

(27:35) What was your career aspirations after school? Anna says she worked in insurance

(34:36) It's about going outside your little comfort zone. Yeah. It's about exploring new places

(39:18) What would you now tell your younger ethnic self in retrospect

(40:37) Paul says if there's something you want to do, do it now

(44:59) Anna says she never stood her ground when it came to her parents

(46:28) Aggie says her Italian parents still influence her decisions in life

(48:54) What do you feel is your responsibility now that your parents are ageing

(53:41) My career in hockey ended and started and ended in one game

(53:57) You were part of our glory box exhibition which opened in 2023

(58:50) The glory box exhibition highlights our mother's sacrifices for us

(01:01:07) What do you love about serving our community? What's your favourite challenge

(01:03:01) Claudia will be deputy mayor for Camptown city co

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