1. How would you describe your political/leadership style in three words?
I come from the south of Italy, something reflected in my political style. This means I’m very passionate - I give 200% to what I believe in. I’m also very open and inclusive politician, things in politics, and in life in general, are better done in collaboration rather than alone.
2. What one item would you save from your house or apartment/ house if it was on fire?
For sure my cat, probably still firmly attached to my sofa.
3. Is there anything you have personally achieved or done that would surprise people?
My entire career surprised everybody. I started my political career when I was in school. I come from a challenging province (where unemployment and organised crime infiltration are among the highest in Italy) and a modest family, without any “connections”. Despite this, I was elected to the national Parliament at 26 and was a re-elected for a second term and became member of the anti-mafia committee. In the European Parliament, I gathered one of the highest number of votes in the South constituency - nobody would have bet a single euro on all of this when I first ran for election.
4. What do you do in your free time to relax and unwind?
I try to read as much as I can, especially poems. It’s enriching, personal and it brings beauty to your life. Of course, I also love to spend time with my four-year-old son when I’m not working.
5. What was the most inspirational and influential book you have read and why?
There are many. One of my favourites is the Marseilles Trilogy (Total Chaos, Chourmo, and Solea) by Jean-Claude Izzo. This is a series of three neo-noir crime novels, featuring ex-cop Fabio Montale as the protagonist, and set in the author’s native city of Marseille. These novels capture much of my Mediterranean culture and I love the deeply melancholy character of Montale; he’s like the best friend I would have loved to have.