Furniture Bank

I am delighted to emcee Furniture Bank’s 7th Annual Chair Affair. This is an exciting opportunity to help others start a new section in their lives while also sharing in the delights of top designer creations, music, food and fun.

Three years ago, my online platform, lhe Italianista altered course and morphed into RO on the GO – a unique medium recognizing and supporting charitable organizations, businesses and community events throughout Vaughan and the Greater Toronto Area. After spending an incredible amount of time out in the community I have come to realize that strength is in numbers and that people have one common goal – to work together to build a stronger and healthier community. RO on the GO has also inspired me to overcome fears and obstacles such as public speaking and sitting on business boards – situations that in the past, would have intimidated me.

My story is typical of many Canadians. Although I am originally from Italy, immigrating to this country as a child, I take great pride in being Canadian and living in a nation that embraces diversity. My intrigue with Italian-Canadian culture escalated to new heights when I met my husband Tony Monaco, radio broadcaster and personality at Z103.5FM Toronto. Although born and raised in Toronto, his values echo that of Calabrian tradition. Our backgrounds, Alpine and Mediterranean, are so different and I am amazed that our families originate from the same country.

Although the Italianista was born of my love for culture, my greatest passion is my community and the people within it. Through RO on the GO I will do what I can to assist those working tirelessly at making a difference in the community and beyond. This medium is truly what ignites my soul and gives me a sense of purpose!

* Romina Monaco is a columnist and writer for Panoram Italia Magazine, Fredi Magazine and Snapd Vaughan East/
Woodbridge/Caledon. She sits on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Italian Business and Professional Association (CIBPA) and is also a member of its Ladies’ Auxiliary. She is a committee member for the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce ‘Business Achievement Awards’ and holds an advisory position on the board of Waves of Changes for Autism.