Summer Interns Aude Fabbiana Chat with the Foundation – the Interview
Every year, the Augurusa Foundation’s Summer Internship Program welcomes young talents from all over the world, who want to grow as future leaders and experience firsthand the joy of creating social impact
FABBIANA LAMBOGLIA’S INTERVIEW
Tell us briefly about yourself
I was born and raised in Maracaibo, Venezuela, and recently graduated with a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) from the University of Navarra in Pamplona, Spain. During my studies, I gained experience working in political consulting as well as with development banks in both Latin America and Europe. These opportunities gave me a strong foundation in policy analysis, economic development, and international cooperation. At this stage of my career, I am eager to enter the job market with a focus on sustainable finance, where I hope to combine my academic background and professional experiences to contribute to meaningful impact.
How did you first get to know the Augurusa Foundation?
I first got to know the Augurusa Foundation during the 15th Assembly of IRENA. There, I had the opportunity to meet the president, Francesco Augurusa, and engage in an enriching conversation. We exchanged ideas on sustainability and development, and he introduced me to the mission and work of the foundation. I was impressed by its commitment to fostering social impact through innovative projects, and our discussion left me inspired to learn more about its initiatives.
What personal motivations led you to apply for the Summer Internship with the Augurusa Foundation?
On a personal level, I felt a strong calling to connect with my roots in Calabria, as my paternal family originates from this region. When I learned about this opportunity, it felt like a sign, because it seemed like a perfect coincidence to be offered a chance to work in Calabria during the summer—a season when people usually come here only for tourism. I wanted to experience living here from a different perspective, immersing myself in the culture while contributing to meaningful projects. This combination of personal connection and professional growth made the internship particularly special for me.
What professional motivations led you to apply for the Summer Internship with the Augurusa Foundation?
Professionally, I was drawn to the impactful work carried out by the Augurusa Foundation, particularly its focus on social innovation and development. I wanted to gain hands-on experience in the nonprofit sector and better understand the dynamics of organizations dedicated to social impact. This internship offered the perfect opportunity to broaden my expertise beyond the private sector and deepen my knowledge of how foundations operate to create sustainable change.
In your opinion, how will this experience impact your future path? What will you take away from this experience?
This experience has strengthened my understanding of the nonprofit sector and how it interacts with larger organizations to achieve development goals. I have gained valuable insights into partnership-building, project analysis, and the importance of aligning local initiatives with global strategies. These lessons will be crucial as I continue to pursue a career that bridges both the profit and nonprofit worlds. Ultimately, I will take away not only new skills but also a broader vision of how meaningful impact is created.
What are you working on with the Augurusa Foundation?
During my internship, I have been involved in market and risk analysis for a potential project in Cambodia, which allowed me to apply my analytical skills in an international context. I also contributed to the creation of an alumni network for the Social Impact Manager program, fostering long-term collaboration among participants. Additionally, I assisted in developing strategies to build partnerships with international organizations, supporting the foundation’s mission to expand its global reach and impact.
What does it mean to you to be an international intern for a non-profit organization?
To me, being an international intern for a non-profit organization is an incredible experience. It means working in a country and region with such a rich culture while contributing to meaningful projects. I particularly value being able to apply the knowledge I gained growing up in a developing country to initiatives that seek to generate real impact. This opportunity has allowed me to combine my background with the foundation’s mission, learning how to address challenges from a global and local perspective.
How can the Augurusa Foundation’s projects, vision and mission inspire your actions?
The Augurusa Foundation inspires me because it empowers young people to take an active role in creating positive change. Its projects and mission reflect values of solidarity and development that resonate deeply with me. I am also inspired by its Catholic values, which align with my own principles and guide the way I want to contribute to society. This experience has strengthened my commitment to work on initiatives that integrate human values with sustainable growth.
What do you think of Filogaso?
Filogaso is a beautiful small town that welcomed me with incredible warmth. Despite its size, it is full of life, tradition, and kindness. The hospitality of its people truly stood out to me, making me feel at home even though I was in a new place. Life in Filogaso is peaceful, allowing for moments of reflection while being surrounded by a close-knit community.
Share a story or memory from this month that you will carry in your heart.
One memory I will always carry with me is the way the people of Filogaso went out of their way to help me when I faced moments of uncertainty. Living in a new country and adapting to a small town came with challenges, especially at the beginning. However, even when communication was not easy, their willingness to assist me was touching. These moments reminded me of the beauty of human connection beyond language barriers.
Living in Filogaso isn’t your first “Italian life” experience, since part of your family lives in Calabria. What do you think of Calabria?
My experience in Filogaso allowed me to better understand the meaning behind many traditions I grew up seeing in my family in Venezuela. I realized how deeply Calabrian culture shaped my family’s values, habits, and way of relating to others. This connection gave me a stronger appreciation of my roots and the pride of belonging to this heritage.
What was it like to share this experience with another summer intern from a different part of the world?
Sharing this experience with Aude was truly enriching. It was easy for me to work and live with her, and over time we built a genuine friendship. Both of us have international perspectives and are used to interacting with people from diverse cultures, which made our collaboration smooth and enjoyable. Her presence added great value to my internship experience.
What do you appreciate most about the Augurusa Foundation?
What I appreciate most about the Augurusa Foundation is its genuine commitment to creating social impact while staying true to its values. It not only develops projects but also empowers individuals—especially young people—to take part in meaningful change. I also value the foundation’s ability to connect local initiatives with international opportunities, fostering collaboration across borders.
What would you like to say to future Augurusa Foundation interns?
To future interns, I would say: embrace this opportunity with an open mind and heart. Be ready to learn, not only from your tasks but also from the people, the culture, and the unexpected experiences along the way. Living in Filogaso will teach you lessons beyond work, and the foundation’s mission will inspire you to think bigger. Enjoy every moment, because this experience is truly unique.
AUDE ONIVOLA’S INTERVIEW
Tell us briefly about yourself
Hi! I am Aude Onivola Rajaona, a young professional with a cumulative two years of experience in the creative sector and expert network systems. Born and raised in Antananarivo, Madagascar, I began my career in London after completing my bachelor’s degree at the University of Manchester, United Kingdom. I am creative, solution-oriented, polyglot, and have a particular interest for strategy. I will be starting my Master’s in Marketing Management and Digital in September 2025.
How did you first get to know the Augurusa Foundation?
I had the opportunity to meet President Francesco Augurusa during the 2024 General Assembly of UNIAPAC in Manila, Philippines. During a casual dinner conversation, we shared life stories and work experience. He expressed interest in my profile and suggested exploring potential collaboration. This is how I discovered the Augurusa Foundation and I was intrigued to learn more.
What personal motivations led you to apply for the Summer Internship with the Augurusa Foundation?
From a personal perspective, I viewed this Summer Internship as an opportunity to experience a summer in Italy while gaining work experience. I was curious to discover the way Italians work. Additionally, having never heard of the Calabrian region before, I welcomed the chance to explore and discover a new part of the country.
What professional motivations led you to apply for the Summer Internship with the Augurusa Foundation?
From a professional perspective, at the time I met President Francesco Augurusa, I had accumulated a year and a half of post-bachelor experience. Having primarily worked in London, I was eager to expand my professional network across Europe. As a creative individual, I quickly recognised that the Italian professional market can be challenging to access without proficiency in the language. Given my creative background, I understood that gaining insight into the Italian market would be important for my career development. I viewed this internship as an opportunity to deepen my understanding of Italian work culture and to begin building a professional network within Italy.
In your opinion, how will this experience impact your future path? What will you take away from this experience?
This experience allowed me to learn more about myself by engaging with strategy and fundraising from a professional perspective. It provided an opportunity to explore the non-profit sector and evaluate whether it aligns with my future career aspirations. Overall, I gained greater clarity about where I would like to make a meaningful impact. As a result, I now have a clearer understanding of the career path I wish to pursue and the motivations guiding that decision.
What are you working on with the Augurusa Foundation?
My initial responsibilities were the following: plan the fundraising for an international school renovation project and develop a strategic plan for the UNIAPAC Youth Group. The Youth Group project is an initiative outside the foundation’s core scope, assigned to me based on my relevant experience. Over time, I also provided support to the communications team and contributed to the foundation’s strategic expansion efforts in the U.S. market.
What does it mean to you to be an international intern for a non-profit organization?
This experience has provided valuable insight into the non-profit sector, particularly within the Italian context. I gained a comprehensive understanding of local structures and the various institutions that support this work. As an international intern, I had the opportunity to explore and familiarize myself with these systems from the ground up. From the other way around, I could bring new perpsectives into the work.
How can the Augurusa Foundation’s projects, vision and mission inspire your actions?
The Augurusa Foundation’s projects and mission inspire me by demonstrating how targeted local initiatives can drive real change, particularly in communities like my hometown. Their effective partnership-building and stakeholder engagement in work and vocational education provide a clear model I aim to apply in my own efforts. While I am still defining my specific actions, this experience motivates me to develop concrete strategies to support similar community-based projects.
What do you think of Filogaso?
Filogaso is a lovely and traditional small village. It is easy to remember familiar faces and find your go-to spots. I really appreciated how welcoming and kind the local residents were. Although I didn’t speak Italian, I was met with great patience and understanding. I had the opportunity to form connections with the nonnas from church, as well as the lovely women running the local pub and gelateria. I was in Filogaso during the Feast of Santa Carmeli, which gave me the chance to experience a more lively side of the village — with live bands, food fairs, and various attractions.
Share a story or memory from this month that you will carry in your heart.
A memory I particularly enjoyed was my trip to Scilla. It was a day filled with humorous Italian stereotypes—like angry car drivers, animated hand gestures during arguments, delicious ice creams, and a sight of coordinated umbrellas by the beach. Exploring beyond Filogaso, I discovered beautiful hilly landscapes and castle-anchored scenery, swam in the sea, learned about the Sicilian roots of Arancini, whislt being carried by the sunset on the train back.
Living in Filogaso was your first “Italian life” experience. Have you had the chance to explore Calabria? How did you find the region?
I didn’t get to explore Calabria as much as I would have wanted to, unfortunately. However, I had the chance to do two trips — one to Scilla, and one to Pizzo! I went with friends and co-workers. It was a lovely trip. It was a very charming and refreshing experience. The sea water in Scilla is clear blue, incredibly clean and gentle to the skin. Both villages, Scilla and Pizzo, are absolutely worth a stroll. I also had the pleasure of trying the local tartufo — an indulgent, sweet dessert made of chocolate and vanilla ice cream, with a melting chocolate sauce in the middle. PS: For those who like less chocolate, I would suggest trying the pistachio flavor at Dante’s in Pizzo, as it offers a less sweet option and a pleasant variation from the original.
What was it like to share this experience with another summer intern from a different part of the world?
My summer internship experience was positive and greatly enhanced by sharing it with another intern. I had the opportunity to share a house with a wonderful young woman, Fabbiana, from Venezuela. Much of my learning came through our conversations, including insights into different cultures, her local social and political contexts, and language exchange.
I believe that sharing similar values is essential when living together, and I was fortunate in this regard.
What do you appreciate most about the Augurusa Foundation?
What I appreciate most about the Augurusa Foundation is their vocational training dedication through Virtus Lab. I believe the foundation provides valuable opportunities for young people in Calabria to expand their knowledge and pragmatic solution to find work through strategic partnerships.
What would you like to say to future Augurusa Foundation interns?
Be curious and open minded. You will join an organization that has made significant local impact and is now seeking growth. With growth often comes restructuring, which means you may be involved in multiple tasks simultaneously or need to reach out to different team members to find the information you need. Flexibility will help you. Regardless, make the most of the opportunities available. Take the initiative to explore subjects that interest you in depth, propose new ideas, and also appreciate the foundation of work that has been established. The goal is to balance innovation with the organization’s culture—so don’t be afraid to contribute. If you don’t speak Italian, be open to learning, as very few people in the area speak other languages. If you have a driving license, take full advantage of it. Discover the nearby villages, cities, and take a breath of fresh air to the sea. Bringing your own car or renting one will make your stay in Filogaso more enjoyable. Finally, apply with a clear objective in mind and communicate your goals clearly to the team. This will help you make the most of your internship experience.
