Italy has determined the Winner of the Country Stage of the "Leader of Public Diplomacy" Contest

The country stage of the V International "Leader of Public Diplomacy" Contest ended in Italy in May 2026. The winner was Marina Kholodenova, Head of the Russian House Association in Verona, member of the Policy Board of the Coordinating Council of Associations of Russian Compatriots in Italy (CCARCI), Honorary member of the Russian Academy of Arts.

The Russian House, led by Marina Kholodenova, has been working for 15 years to preserve the Russian language, culture and traditions, as well as to strengthen friendly ties between Russia, Italy and other countries. During this time, a number of large-scale projects have been implemented, which have received international recognition. One of the most famous is the International Festival of Costume of the Peoples of Russia, which has been held in Verona annually for 12 years. During this time, the festival has brought together more than 3,000 participants from different countries, turning into a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue between representatives of different nationalities.

A significant place in Marina Kholodenova's work is occupied by the organization of the Immortal Regiment march in Verona, one of the most massive events of this format in all of Italy. Holding commemorative events, concerts and exhibitions helps preserve the historical memory of the Second World War and helps strengthen cooperation between Russian and Italian society.

In 2024, on the initiative of the Russian House, under the leadership of Marina Kholodenova and with the support of UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Zurab Tsereteli, the Alexander Award was established. This award is presented to cultural and public diplomacy figures for their contribution to the development of Russian-Italian relations. It serves not just as an award, but as a powerful tool for strengthening international dialogue, contributing to the rapprochement of peoples.

The educational project "From Leonardo to Gagarin", which has been implemented for 10 years, is aimed at working with young people. The initiative started with the installation of a monument to the first cosmonaut in the city park of Verona and has grown into an international program bringing together schools and cultural centers from different countries. In 2026, on the 65th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin's flight into space, an international competition for children and youth from all over the world was launched as part of the project.

– For me, the main thing in leadership is the ability to unite people around a common goal and create conditions for their self-realization. I believe that a leader is someone who inspires others to move forward and develop," says Marina Kholodenova.

More information is on the official website of the World Peoples Assembly and at media@world-assembly.org.