Canadian Italian Business and Professional Association of Toronto Celebrates 2025 Women in Leadership Event
On the evening of March 6, 2025, the Canadian Italian Business and Professional Association (CIBPA) held its annual Women in Leadership event, chaired by Sabrina Marrelli, Vice President of CIBPA Toronto, at the Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex in Toronto.
In addition to celebrating the many accomplishments of women across a wide range of industries, CIBPA also recognized the 2025 Women of the Year Julie Di Lorenzo, President of Mirabella Development Corporation, for her “exceptional contributions to the real estate industry and commitment to empowering others make her a true leader and role model,” according to Anthony Cocuzzo, President of CIBPA Toronto.
The evening also featured a panel discussion focusing on women’s health care, with inspiring stories from Dr. Melinda Maggisano, a minimally invasive general surgeon at Humber River Hospital; Sienna De Caro, a pelvic floor and orthopedic physiotherapist at The Nest Health; and Romina Monastero, a Registered Psychotherapist at Well Beings Counselling. These esteemed professionals shared their insights and experiences, addressing the significant challenges and progress within an industry that has historically been male-dominated and where women’s health issues have often been overlooked. Their stories underscored the strength and resilience of women working to change the landscape of healthcare and ensure greater attention to women’s health needs.
The event also spotlighted “Champions” — leading women from diverse fields, and celebrated their leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. Among them were Mara Cataldi, Director of Operations at ICFF; Lucia Cesaroni, an international opera singer and founder of Cesaroni Consulting; and Pina D’Agostino, a law professor at Osgoode York University. Other celebrated figures included Nadia Di Donato, Vice President Creative Director at Liberty Entertainment Group; Ines Di Santo, an Internationally renowned bridal gown designer; and Veronica Di Santo, Managing Partner at Ines Di Santo.
Also recognized were industry leaders including Sabrina Fiorellino, CEO of Fero International Inc. and Lucia Iacovelli, Canadian Managing Partner for Tax and Legal at KPMG Canada. The lineup also included influential figures such as Dr. Roberta Iannacito-Provenzano, Provost Vice- President Academic and Full Professor at Toronto Metropolitan University; Kristina Kaneff, Vice President General Counsel at Kaneff Group; and Grace Lombardi, Director of Communications at CHIN Radio TV International.
Further highlighting leadership across diverse sectors were Victoria Mancinelli, Director of Communications, Marketing Strategic Partnerships at LiUNA; Angela Marotta and Melissa Marotta-Paolicelli, co-founders of Two Sisters Vineyards; and Romina Monaco, freelance writer and Events Editor at Panoram Italia.
Also recognized were Sabrina Principato-Belli, Chief Human Resources Officer at LiUNA Pension Fund; Jennifer Quattrociocchi, Vice President of Partnerships Priority Segments at Scotia Wealth Management; and Deryn Rizzi, Fire Chief Director of Emergency Management at the City of Mississauga.
Daniela Sfara, a private Italian chef and cultural ambassador for authentic Made in Italy brands; Michelle Zerillo-Sosa, Editor-in-Chief of Dolce Magazine and co- founder of Dolce Media Group; and Vittoria Zubani, President CEO of Archetype Biomedical Inc., were also honoured for their profound impact and leadership in their own sectors.
Sabrina Marrelli expressed her enthusiasm about the charitable aspect of the evening, stating, “I’m excited to share that a portion of tonight’s proceeds will benefit Famous PEOPLE Players, a remarkable charity that supports people with disabilities by offering them a creative and empowering outlet through the arts.”
The event, emceed by Andrea Trentadue, the prominent television host and journalist known for her work on CHIN Radio/TV, provided an engaging and insightful experience for all attendees. Her role was pivotal in highlighting the significance of women’s achievements and the importance of support and networking among women leaders.
The night concluded with a three-course dinner, music, and entertainment, providing an excellent environment and a supportive and empowering setting for networking and celebration of the formidable achievements of these influential women.
