Previously in our Northern Roots series we’ve spoken to readers originally from Northern Ireland but currently living elsewhere. Now we’re doing things the other way around. This week we speak to Gabriele Maletta, from Italy and lived in Northern Ireland during 2017. He now resides in London. You can follow Gabriele on Twitter @Gabriomaletta.

 

1. Tell us about yourself. When did you leave Northern Ireland, and where did you go? What do you do now?

My name is Gabriele, I am Italian, from a small town close to Milan. After graduating in International Relations in Milan I moved to London and then moved to Belfast last year for an internship opportunity at Stratagem International. Thanks to that experience, I have been accepted at the London School of Economics (LSE) and I am now back in London completing my master’s degree.

 

2. What perceptions did you have of Northern Ireland before you came here? Have they changed since you arrived?

I really didn’t know much about Northern Ireland, I just thought it would be pretty similar to London. My perception definitely changed after I arrived! I understood that not only it was very different from London but also it had a specific history that makes it a unique place from which everybody should learn.

 

3. Are you hopeful for Northern Ireland’s future? Will Brexit make a difference?

I am very hopeful for Northern Ireland’s future, I have many friends and former colleagues there who are working hard and showcasing the excellence of Northern Ireland. I think Brexit will make a difference, but ultimately, Northern Irish people will be able to make the best out of it and have a very bright future ahead.

 

4. Do you think you will return to Northern Ireland? What could convince you to come back?

For now, I am not planning to go back due to my career focus, but never say never! I think I would be already convinced to go back due to the very positive experience I had last year. I only need to wait for the right match between career and employment opportunity there!

 

5. What can Northern Ireland learn from the place you are from? What can the place you’re from learn from Northern Ireland?

Northern Ireland doesn’t really need to learn from other countries, because its peculiarities are what make Northern Ireland unique. If I had to say one thing, as Italian I would just say the cuisine! For Italy instead, we could learn from Northern Ireland how to remember history and learning from it. Nowadays more and more people in Italy forget our history (and present!) as immigrants to other countries.

6. If Northern Ireland had a president with sweeping powers, and it was you, what would you do?

Well, I would love to see Stormont running again. Northern Irish people are witnessing Brexit without any say in it and this may lead to unpopular results. In general, legislation from economy to health and from communities to infrastructure need to be discussed and implemented as soon as possible in the interest of people of Northern Ireland.

 

7. What would you like to see more of on Northern Slant?

This series of interviews with foreign people who lived in Northern Ireland is one of my favourites. I think it can bring very interesting perspectives to the debate about the future of Northern Ireland. I am sure that I will see more of it on Northern Slant.

8. If you could ask three Northern Ireland politicians (past or present) to dinner, who would they be? And why?

Definitely Ian Paisley and Martin McGuinness. They have been two historic figures for the peace process in Northern Ireland and leading examples of how conflicting ideas and personalities can cooperate for the common good and forge a peaceful society. Everybody should learn from them. Another one would be Bronagh Hinds, but I have been lucky enough to be introduced to her already! She is a very positive and inspirational person who showcases the importance of involving women in the political process. The lessons I got from her can be transferred to every aspect of a society and I would love to have dinner with her to learn more!

 

9. Do you have a favourite quote, or mantra?

My mantra is simple, just ‘take action’. When I received the offer from Stratagem International I didn’t think twice about leaving London and going to Belfast. It turned out to be one of the best experiences of my life. If I didn’t take action I probably would have never discovered such an amazing place that much more people should know about.

 

10. What’s your message for people of Northern Ireland?

First of all, I would like to thank them for the warm welcome they reserved for me since my arrival. Everybody has been exceptional and very helpful to me and I am grateful for that. Second, never lose faith. Although Stormont is not yet delivering for Northern Irish people, I came across an incredible number of bright young and less young people who have the skill-set and passion to lead Northern Ireland towards the future it deserves.

Also published on Medium.