Page 18 - Comites Progetto Donna

Donata Climatianos’ strength lies not only in what she does, but in how she carries herself with grace, humility, and an unshakable sense of purpose. Her leadership is quiet but powerful, rooted in actions rather than words. She also holds deep pride in her heritage, ensuring cultural traditions are celebrated and passed down with love and authenticity. What sets her apart is that she never seeks recognition yet she is exactly the kind of woman who deserves it most.
Leah Baylis is honoured to be nominated for this award recognising her contributions to business leadership and community impact in South Australia. As Managing Director of Champagne Recruitment, she empowers others through mentoring, workshops, and tailored hiring solutions. Beyond business, she champions medical research as an Ambassador for The Hospital Research Foundation, raising awareness following her own breast cancer diagnosis. She also promotes innovation through Showcase SA. Known for her authenticity and resilience, she leads with purpose, empathy, and integrity.
Natasha Marona has devoted 25 years to serving the Italo-Australian community in South Australia with dedication, passion, and resilience. She has held leadership roles with Dante Alighieri SA (Vice President, 18 years), SA Italian Association (10 years), Giovani SA, San Giorgio La Molara Association, Campania Club, It.SA, and the Italian Didactic Centre. Natasha has championed cultural preservation, youth engagement, and initiatives addressing domestic violence, suicide prevention, and homelessness, while representing the community at national and international conferences.
Patrizia Kadis is a fearless advocate for elderly Italian-Australians and CALD communities, driving systemic change in culturally appropriate aged care. She pioneered the Italian Living with Memory Loss and Italian Carers Dementia Education Programs, now models shared nationally. Through initiatives like the Community Partners Project, she secured government funding for CALD carer support across multiple communities. Recognised as an expert by the Department of Health and Ageing, Patrizia’s research, advocacy, and policy work have transformed multicultural dementia care across Australia.
Rebecca Staltari has devoted herself to South Australia’s Italian community with quiet dedication and care. As President of Nonnas Cucina (2019–2025), she strengthened food security, social connection, and volunteer engagement, guiding the organisation through COVID-19 and a major relocation. A hands-on leader, Rebecca fosters inclusion, supports vulnerable people, and builds bridges across community groups, all while balancing family and professional life.
Silvia De Cesare is a passionate Italian educator at Valley View Secondary School and President of the South Australian Association of Teachers of Italian (SAATI). She creates immersive, inclusive learning experiences, connecting students with Adelaide’s Italian community through programs like Italian Outdoors and intergenerational projects. A former President of the Dante Alighieri Association and active Radio Italiana Uno volunteer, Silvia champions language, culture, equity, and inclusion, fostering curiosity, cultural understanding, and lasting ties across generations in South Australia.