The session, moderated by Massimiliano Ossini (Italian TV presenter and author), and Marica Latella (coordinator of Donne Coldiretti, the network of women entrepreneurs within Coldiretti), brought together high-level representatives from the business, agricultural, and institutional fields:
- Dominga Cotarella, CEO of Famiglia Cotarella winery and member of Campagna Amica (the main Italian network of short food supply chains and local producers),
- Diana Lenzi, National Wine Coordinator at Coldiretti (Italy’s largest farmers’ organization and partner of Grapes of Change project),
- Ivana Russiello, European Network Coordinator at Sistemi Formativi Confindustria (the Confederation of Italian Industries), Grapes of Change Coordinator,
- Antonella Di Tonno, President of Coldiretti Donne Abruzzo and owner of an award-winning winery in central Italy,
- Maria Francesca Serra, National President of Coldiretti Donne and farmer,
- Luigi Scordamaglia, CEO of Filiera Italia (representing the Italian agri-food supply chain),
- Laura Gabrielli, CEO and President of Gruppo Gabrielli, one of Italy’s leading retail groups,
- Anna Falchi, TV presenter.
The workshop highlighted how gender equality in viticulture and agriculture is not only about rights and representation, but also about economic growth, innovation, and sustainability. As one speaker pointed out, empowering women in farming and agrifood means unlocking a tremendous potential for productivity and social cohesion across rural Europe.
Several panellists recalled that women have always played a vital role in the wine industry — yet for decades, much of their work remained invisible. Today, women are increasingly visible as entrepreneurs, oenologists, and innovators shaping the future of European viticulture.
Another strong message that emerged was the ability to transform marginality into strength. Real progress happens when individual talent is supported by equal opportunities and inclusive environments. “Talent has no gender,” one participant said, “but it needs equality to flourish — and a field to cultivate.”
Participants also agreed on the crucial role of networks and alliances. Cooperation between women and men, between enterprises and institutions, is the real driver for change. The Coldiretti network, present across all Italian regions, was recognized as a powerful example of how collective engagement can foster both equality and competitiveness.
The Bologna workshop marks the first of a series of upcoming events under the Grapes of Change project. Through focus groups, training initiatives, and serious games, the project will continue to engage farmers, students, and professionals across Europe in promoting a truly equal, safe, and sustainable wine sector.