Manitoba Associate Honoured as Woman of Distinction

On Sunday, March 3, 2019 the Italian Community honoured Associate Tonina Fiorentino with the Donna dell’anno Award (Woman of the Year) presented at the International Women’s Day Celebration held at the Caboto Centre. Tonina was chosen for her many contributions in her Italian community, and the community at large. She is very proud to be born in Italy, immigrating to Canada in 1960 with her family at the age of the 2 1⁄2 years. Her Italian culture remains dear to her heart.

Tonina is a talented singer. At the young age of eleven she started singing at Folklorama and at church. She sang with the Emmaus group of St John Brébeuf parish for 12 years and was privileged to record with them on two of their soundtracks. She frequently sings at weddings and funerals especially at Holy Rosary Parish where she is Pastoral Associate. Along with her husband, Tonina acts in the Italian Theatre group, Fratellanza Amatese, where she has had numerous roles.

Recently Tonina used her musical talent to reach out to the needy in the city. She recorded a CD directing proceeds of sales to Siloam Mission, and three inner city breakfast programs. A second CD raised funds for the Holy Names House of Peace.

In Tonina’s words: “I always say that God gave me a gift and so this gift will be shared as long as I can share it…”

Congratulations Tonina!