Stella d’Italia is the name of the order in Italian in which VUB professor Antonella Fioravanti has been knighted. "This honor is something different from everything, my PhD, my professorship. It’s a recognition of my scientific career in addition to my commitment in supporting women in science and science outreach. A recognition for all things I love and I believe in."
Antonella Fioravanti comes from Tuscany, from a regular family with no academics or diplomats in her family. Yet, she has built a considerable academic career and a solid international recognition for being a promoter and supporter of women in science. Antonella is a professor at the VUB and part of the VIB-VUB Centre for Structural Biology. She discovered a new way to fight anthrax and she is currently leading the development of new tools and therapies against harmful bacteria.
Why were you made a knight of the Stella d'Italia on 6 June?
I didn't know until a week beforehand. Out of the blue I’ve got an official email from the Italian Embassy that was communicating me a convocation as I was awarded of the Stella d’Italia honor. And just like that, I became a Knight of the Italian Republic in the Order of the "Stella d'Italia". This honour was bestowed on me by the President of the Italian Republic Sergio Mattarella. I was awarded for my contribution to science, my commitment to women in science, my dedication to science outreach and my activities to support and promote cooperation between Italy and Belgium.
What does the Stella d'Italia entail?
The order honours people who give Italy prestige abroad. These can be scientists, artists, journalists, top athletes and especially politicians. The aim is to forge international friendly relations and collaborations with Italy.
I am very happy about this. Not only because it appreciates my scientific work, but also my commitment for women in science and science outreach. As a scientist I primally want to unravel the biology of bacterial armors while fighting pathogenic bacteria. But my contribution to society doesn’t end here. According to UNESCO data, less than 30% of the world’s researchers are women.I really believe that this world doens’t get a chance to face all the challenge it needs to face without women contributing to science. This is why I have been highly dedicated over the last 10 years to support internationally women in science and in many activities for science outreach. Science needs to be accessible to everyone including young minds.
How was the award ceremony at the Italian embassy in Brussels?
It meant a lot to me. I was received with full honors by the current Ambassador Federica Favi. I must also thank former Ambassador Francesco Genuardi for his belief in me and our long-standing collaboration. My young daughter went along to the ceremony and she loved it. When we arrived, she ran up to the security guard to ask for a sword. Her mother still missed that as a brand-new knight. This honor is for her and for all the little girls out there: you can make your life your own masterpiece.
Find out more about Antonella Fioravanti at https://www.wtnschp.be/english/meet-antonella-dreamer-mom-and-top-scien…