On the occasion of the National Day of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs), the Consulate General of Italy in Philadelphia promoted an important initiative highlighting the connection between Italy’s excellence in production and language education.
The event took place at Mainland Regional High School in New Jersey, which hosted a day dedicated to exploring entrepreneurial culture and promoting the Italian language, involving key figures from the Italian System and the local community.
Welcoming Consul General Nico Frandi, accompanied by Principal Serenella Di Rosa and Elisa Schwab, Executive Director of the America-Italy Society, were Superintendent Mark Marrone and Professor Robert Campana.
The event marked a moment of particular pride for the community. The school celebrated a significant milestone, as Italian has officially surpassed Spanish as the most studied foreign language among students – a tangible sign of the vitality of our cultural heritage and of the excellent work carried out by the teaching staff.
Thanks to the participation of Nicola Levoni, President of Levoni Spa, students had the unique opportunity to engage with a historic industrial company. Just weeks after Italian cuisine received the prestigious recognition of being listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the presentations – delivered in Italian – allowed students to explore the evolution of a brand that has become a symbol in the cured-meats sector.
Particular attention was also given to trademark protection and the defense of authenticity in the global marketplace. Through an analysis of the phenomenon known as Italian Sounding, students were made aware of the importance of distinguishing genuine Made in Italy products from imitations. The initiative highlights the ongoing commitment of the Consulate General of Italy in Philadelphia and its partners to support the internationalization of Italian businesses while promoting an educational model that values and preserves our cultural roots.
