We are thrilled to celebrate and congratulate our dear friend Anna Manunza, who has been bestowed one of Italy’s most distinguished honors: Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy (Cavaliere dell'Ordine della Stella d’Italia). 

This prestigious recognition, granted by the President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, and presented on his behalf by Consul General Raffaella Valentini, honors Anna's exceptional dedication to promoting Italian culture and heritage abroad.

A proud Sardinian from the beautiful coastal town of Cabras, Anna has become an integral member and Cultural Ambassador within the Little Italy of Los Angeles Association (LILAA). Her passion for Italian culture is not only deeply personal but has translated into tangible, long-lasting contributions to the Italian-American community in Southern California.

Anna has brought her outstanding public relations expertise and organizational talent to the forefront, helping to shape and support numerous cultural initiatives. Her commitment has played a vital role in numerous events promoting Italian culture.

She was responsible for nominating and securing the Hollywood Walk of Fame star for the legendary Luciano Pavarotti, a moment of immense pride for the global Italian community.

Most recently, her tireless efforts helped make the historic stopover of the iconic Italian Navy ship, the Amerigo Vespucci, a resounding success. The ship’s visit featured the debut of the vibrant “Villaggio Italia”,  a cultural showcase for Italy that was brought to life with the help of Anna and the LILAA team, all working as volunteers with heartfelt dedication for this important project.

Anna was also pivotal with some of LILAA's showcase events.  She helped launch the first-ever Italian 5K run in Los Angeles, blending fitness, community, and cultural pride, now in its fourth year.  She was also responsible of greatly expanding the annual Festa Italiana in San Pedro by bringing crowds and vendors together in this joyful celebration of Italian-American Heritage Month which has exploded in popularity, having hosted over 30,000 visitors last year.

Through every event, every initiative, and every conversation, Anna has served Italy with love, passion, and unwavering dedication. Her work has not only built bridges between Italy and the United States but has also inspired pride and unity among Italian-Americans in Los Angeles.

Dear Anna, your country honors you, and we, your community, celebrate you. Your love for Italy shines through every effort you make , and now, Italy has shown you just how deeply that love is returned. 

Congratulations, Cavaliere Anna Manunza