Youmanity is lanched
Youmanity is the new London-based NGO the objective of which is to promote the importance of cultural diversity and social inclusion.
The official launch of the association took place at the residence of the Consul General of Italy to the United Kingdom, Massimiliano Mazzanti.
“Youmanity is already very active” said the Consul General, “This NGO promotes social integration through a number of international projects, notably an annual photography award.”
Among the guests present at the launch were Judith Warner, Mayor of Westminster, Michael Pritchard, Director General of the Royal Photographic Society and Ann Williams, Director of photography at The London College of Communication. The ceremony was also attended by representatives of Amnesty International, the British Council and some members of the international academic world as well as the Hollywood actress Greta Scacchi and philanthropist Maria Carmela Attolico Countess of Adelfia, Viscountess Hambleden.
In his opening speech, the Chairman and founder of Youmanity, Angelo Iudice, summarised the work accomplished by his previous NGO, Accademia Apulia. His experiences as an 18 year-old who had just moved from rural Apulia in Italy to the lights of London made him realise the importance of social integration, acceptance of diversity and mutual respect for others. The interplay of these values led to the creation of Accademia Apulia in 2008 - an association but also a point of contact for others who had undertaken the same journey as he had - moving from Continental Europe to the UK.
Over time relationships grew, networks expanded, these concepts developed and the values based on a bridge between two lands became the seed which allowed growth from local to global - social inclusion being a topic of global importance.
“Cultural integration, acceptance and respect among people are an important part of humanity - they are principles for peace and prosperity - this is YOUMANITY,” said the Angelo Iudice
The launch of Youmanity on 11 May 2016 provided a new platform from which to present the annual photography award held with the support of the Royal Photographic Society.The next exhibition will be entitled ‘The Everyday Heroine’, exploring gender discrimination. Open to participants worldwide, the panel of judges will select finalists whose works will be showcased at a location in central London - the winner will be announced on March 6, 2017.
Youmanity’s current photography exhibition exploring the concept of age and ageing is on show at Guy’s Campus, King’s College London.
