Angelo Camilli, a graduate of Luiss in Economics and Business, entrepreneur, and with over 30 years of experience in the field of trade associations, is now the President of Unindustria Lazio.

What moments and memories do you have of your experience at Luiss?

Let’s go back a few years… I attended Luiss in the 1980s, at the historical headquarters at Viale Pola 12 in Rome. As the son of an entrepreneur, I chose the Faculty of Economics and Business with the idea of working in the family business. Entering Luiss at that time was a significant achievement because it was a reputable university with excellent opportunities, a quality private institution connected to the business world. My time at Luiss provided me with a comprehensive study program that was innovative and focused on practical experiences. In addition to the technical subjects that equipped us with specific tools, the classroom interactions helped build relationships with peers and professors. It was an important period for me, and I look back on that experience with great pleasure. In fact, I think I passed on that enthusiasm to my daughter, as she also chose to study at Luiss!

What does the world of associations represent in your personal and professional journey?

I have always had an interest in associations, starting from a young age when I was involved in Rotaract and later Rotary. I strongly believed that engaging with others through these associations could provide enriching experiences. As I entered the business world, first in the family business and later with my own ventures, I became part of the Confindustria system. I joined the Young Entrepreneurs Group of Rome, which set me on an associative path, leading to positions such as President of the Young Entrepreneurs of Rome and Small Industry at the regional level. In 2020, I was appointed President of Unindustria Lazio. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to explore social and economic issues, not only at a local but also at a national level, and discuss them with fellow entrepreneurs.

One of your recent challenges, which involves associations, territories, and companies, is the candidature of Rome for Expo 2030. Could you tell us about how it originated, and what does it mean for our country?

It all began in 2020 with a program proposed at the elective assembly. This program not only addressed projects and topics concerning our region’s business system but also recognized Expo as a significant event with the potential to make an impact nationwide. It presented a remarkable opportunity to showcase Italy’s industrial and entrepreneurial excellence and contribute to the development of the entire Italian territory. In September 2021, we proposed Rome’s candidature, receiving full support from the then Mayor, Virginia Raggi, and all the mayoral candidates. Prime Minister Mario Draghi officially presented Rome’s candidacy for Expo 2030 to the Burea International des Expositions (BIE), marking the official beginning of this journey. The Candidature Committee, chaired by Ambassador Giampiero Massolo and directed by Minister Plenipotentiary Giuseppe Scognamiglio, was established. To support the Committee in promoting the capital’s candidacy, we collaborated with several trade associations, including Unindustria, CNA Roma, Coldiretti Roma, Confcommercio Roma, Federlazio, Ance Roma-ACER, and Confesercenti, as well as businesses. Together, we created the Fondazione Roma Expo 2030.

Other cities competing for Expo 2030, alongside Rome, are Odessa, Busan, and Riyadh. After inspectors’ visits in March and April of this year, the BIE will decide which candidatures to admit by June. The final vote by 170 countries will take place in November. Rome’s ambitious project has received appreciation, and we hope for the best outcome. The Capital has an important decade ahead, including the Jubilee of 2025 and the extraordinary Jubilee of 2033. If Rome were to host Expo 2030, it would be part of a framework of major events, significant investments, and the opportunity to implement important infrastructural projects and contribute to the overall re-development of the city and region, considering the NRRP funds.

Let’s take a leap into the past. What advice would you give to young Angelo Camilli as he takes his first steps in university and then in the corporate world?

I would advise young Angelo Camilli and all young people that each of us has our unique skills and development pathways happening at different times. It is not necessary to have everything figured out right away. It is crucial to be curious, to experiment, and follow your own talents and aspirations. Finding one’s talent and passion is fundamental for a job that brings satisfaction and success, regardless of how each individual defines those terms.

Virginia Gullotta, member of the Executive Board of the Luiss Alumni Association.