Much more than an event is taking place in Washington, DC: a powerful message is taking shape for the new generations. A special guest Lidia Bastianich, who meets the students of the Twinning Project Italy–USA (TPIU) and transforms his personal story into a life lesson made of resilience, identity and courage.
The Twinning Project was born six years ago with a clear goal: to help young people believe in their own potential through direct encounters with talented people who can share real-life experiences, successes, and failures. The project invites students to imagine their future, to consider a possible university career, and, above all, to ask themselves who they want to be when they grow up.
It was conceived and coordinated by Simonetta Baldassari, who passionately leads an initiative based on cultural exchange between Italy and the United States. A bridge that's more human than geographical.
Two days of culture, dialogue, and inspiration
The event is divided into two intense days. The first takes place at the’Italian American Museum of Washington DC, directed by Francesco Isgrò: a symbolic space, where the stories of Italian emigration meet the present of young people.
Alongside the Twinning Project, it actively supports the initiative Casa Italiana Promoting Body with the support of the director Federica Petracci, confirming the importance of networking between cultural institutions to build concrete opportunities.
The second day takes place at the’Italian Embassy in Washington, in the presence of the ambassador Marco Peronaci, underlining the institutional and diplomatic value of the initiative and its role in strengthening cultural relations between the two countries.
Lidia Bastianich: Food as a Bridge Between Worlds
Before the students, Lidia Bastianich brings much more than her recipes. She recounts her experience as a migrant, speaks of family, and of roots as a profound memory that sustains in difficult times. She uses food as a universal language, a tool of communication, and an authentic bridge between cultures.
With overwhelming energy and rare authenticity, she intertwines themes of communication, resilience, and identity. She encourages students not to fear change, to transform difficulties into strength, and to cultivate their talents. Her presence captures attention, her humility wins them over. Students listen, ask questions, and identify with a story about departures and new beginnings.
A genuine dialogue is born, made of gazes, emotions, and insights. An encounter that nourishes the mind and heart.
Believe in yourself, today
The Italy–USA Twinning Project demonstrates that guidance isn't just about books, but above all about experiences. Meeting inspiring figures like Lidia Bastianich helps young people visualize a possible future, understanding that success isn't a destination, but a journey of study, sacrifice, and passion.
In Washington, for two days, Italian and American students share stories, perspectives, and dreams. They return home with one more certainty: they can do it.
And this is precisely the greatest value of the project.
