1. Is there anything you have personally achieved or done that would surprise people?
I love doing surprising things. I think that people were very surprised - and they are still today - by the journey I undertook to settle in Brussels from the far south of Europe by hitchhiking, in trainers and with my backpack.
2. What was the most inspirational and influential book you have read and why?
I have read many interesting and inspirational books. The first that springs to mind is ‘Il fasciocomunista’ by Antonio Pennacchi, because it describes my homeland’s political and social background.
3. Which person you have worked with has most inspired you in your career, and how?
I have met people from all walks of life. However, the person who inspired me the most was Mr. Vincenzo, a Sicilian farmer. I met during fruit picking seasons when I was young. It is unbelievable how much you can learn from hard working people.
4. What one item would you save from your home if it was on fire?
Probably nothing. I am not at all concerned with material objects or things. Spencer W. Kimball wisely said, “Love people, not things; use things, not people”.
5. What do you do in your free time to relax and unwind?
Unfortunately, I do not have a lot of free time, but when I do, I try to give it all to my daughter and my partner. However, before becoming an MEP, I was fond of nature and football.