An unforgettable evening occurred on October 19th at the Scarpa Hall of the MAXXI Museum in Rome, where the prestigious Women in Cinema Award triumphantly returned during the Rome Film Festival. The extraordinary curator, Claudia Conte, donning an elegant Ferragamo gown, paid tribute to women worldwide facing harrowing situations, innocent victims of violence and war.
“In this edition dedicated to courageous women fighting for their freedom in Afghanistan, Ukraine, Iran, and elsewhere, we cannot ignore the many artists who still endure violence and censorship as they seek to express their thoughts,” Claudia Conte declared. The evening celebrated exceptional female talent and strength, with special awards for prominent figures in various fields.
The outstanding honorees were:
Nina Zilli, the talented Italian singer-songwriter, received well-deserved recognition. Her music and artistic dedication inspire millions of people around the world.
Vivia Ferragamo, the brilliant fashion designer, was praised for her unmatched creativity in the fashion industry.
Francesca Mannocchi, the courageous journalist and documentarian, shed light on important and often overlooked stories through her work.
Doriana Leondeff, the talented screenwriter, was honoured for her contributions to the world of cinema and for paving the way for many other women in the industry.
Daria D’Antonio, the director of photography, proved that gender barriers can be broken, opening new opportunities for women in a profession often dominated by men.
Additionally, the iconic actress Lina Sastri was honoured with a “Lifetime Achievement Award” for her extraordinary contributions to the world of cinema. An artist who has captivated audiences for generations.
The social award was presented to Joy Ezekiel, a young Nigerian woman who faced the horrors of human trafficking and found the courage to share her story in the book “I am Joy, a Cry for Freedom from the Shackles of Trafficking,” with a special preface by “Pope Francesco”.
A prestigious special guest of the evening was the Minister for Family, Birth, and Equal Opportunities, Eugenia Maria Roccella. Minister Roccella’s presence underscored the importance of addressing complex and often dramatic issues related to women and their struggle for equality and justice.
“I sincerely thank Minister Roccella as well. Having her as an extraordinary advocate for this award is a sign of great sensitivity from the highest institution on a truly complex and dramatic issue,” emphasized Claudia Conte.
Before the ceremony, a roundtable discussion titled “Let No Talent Go to Waste. Business Culture and Equity” was held. Organized by Claudia Conte in collaboration with KPMG, this debate provided insights into the promotion of talent, especially female talent, and sustainable and inclusive development in the film and cultural industry.
Eminent figures like Svetlana Celli, Chiara Sbarigia, Federica Lucisano, Lodovico Mazzolin, Roberto Natale, and Giorgio Assumma contributed to a stimulating discussion.
This prestigious event, sponsored and supported by the Ministry of Culture, was conceived by Angela Prudenzi, Claudia Conte, and Cristina Scognamillo. The awards, created by master goldsmith Michele Affidato, were presented by a prestigious Academy composed of Italian journalists. The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of partners such as KPMG, Aliante Partners, Andrea Iervolino, and Monika Bacardi. The presence of representatives from public and private institutions and companies emphasized the importance of supporting and celebrating female excellence in every field.
Women in Cinema Award is more than just a film award; it is a tribute to all women who, despite adversity, continue to shine like bright stars in the realms of art, culture, and the world. This magical evening reminds us that women’s talent and determination are an unstoppable force that can change the world.
Article edited by Massimo Basile
Editorial Director
