Meet the Team
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Michelle Loielo
CO-FOUNDER
Owner of Unica Cucina e Caffè in Capel Sound, where she’s spent nine years sharing authentic Southern Italian flavours and community spirit. Daughter of Calabrese immigrants and mother of three, she’s on a mission to bring the tambourine-driven magic of Riace’s street festivals to the Mornington Peninsula. -
Maria Anzelmi
CO-FOUNDER
Inspired by her Calabrese heritage and a lifelong connection to the Mornington Peninsula, the Festa was born from a love of family, food, and tradition – an expression of community spirit and a desire to keep Italian culture alive for future generations.
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Vittoria Anzelmi
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
With a childhood immersed in Italian language and culture, and a deep-rooted passion for everything from food, fashion and sports to family and tradition, her connection to Italianity has been shaped by years of study, travel, and lived experience. Infusing every part of her creative and cultural expression.
Why the Festa came to life.
We had a huge desire to celebrate the community, culture, and traditions of our childhood, adulthood, and day-to-day life with the Italian collective, along with the Mornington Peninsula community and everyone who loves everything about Italy, being Italian, and Italianity.
Contact the Team
Got a burning question about tickets, food stalls, volunteering, or partnerships? Drop us a line and our friendly festival crew will get back to you pronto.