by MK
This year started with the loss of our long-term writer Ashley Caneva, who will forever remain in our hearts, followed by months of rethinking and refocusing on what we really wanted our magazine to become. In 2023 we came out with four print editions, the last one landed on 22 December, the editions have traveled the world and secured many a reader for our daily website. Running a magazine is a bit like running a marathon, there are times when you think “Who Made Me Do This?” and others when you’re so blissfull you can’t believe how lucky you’ve been to get to where we are today.
As we bid farewell to 2023, the enchanting city of Trieste stands as a beacon of resilience and cultural dynamism, having navigated both the triumphs and tribulations of the past year. Beyond the glittering surface of a tourism boom and the flourishing expat community, Trieste has faced challenges that have underscored the importance of helping others, sharing our blessings, and stepping out of our comfort zones.
The surge in tourism, while a testament to Trieste’s allure, has not been without its challenges. Whilst the cruise ships may or may not be the future of Trieste’s holiay business, the discovery of our city certainly is. Trieste today is not the city I saw 7 years ago, and as it tiptoes into its bright leisure industry future, the city is still trying to navigate the whats and the hows of the everchanging travel sector.
Simultaneously, the exponential growth of the expat community in Friuli Venezia Giulia has brought to light the need for solidarity and community support. Many newcomers have faced the challenges of acclimating to a new culture and language, and the residents of Trieste have responded with open hearts. Initiatives to facilitate integration, language exchange programs, and cultural events have become vital in creating a sense of belonging for those who have chosen Trieste as their new home.
Trieste has shown a remarkable commitment to the principle of giving back and sharing its abundance. Local organizations and individuals have stepped up to address the needs of vulnerable communities, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility. From food drives to community outreach programs, the people of Trieste have demonstrated that a thriving community is one that cares for its members, regardless of their background or origin. Nonetheless, a lot of work still needs to be done for the lesser fortunate, before Trieste can really be called welcoming. Sometimes, fear prevents us from really stepping out of our comfort zones and doing what is best for the community.
The challenges of the past year have prompted a collective realization of the necessity to step out of our comfort zones. Trieste’s residents and newcomers alike have embraced change, welcomed diversity, and ventured beyond familiar territories. This willingness to embrace the unfamiliar has not only strengthened the social fabric of the city but has also fostered an environment where innovation and progress can flourish. This is especially true for the major events like Barcolana, Trieste Next, and even Corsa dell Bora.
As we reflect on the close of 2023, it is clear that Trieste’s success story extends beyond mere economic or demographic metrics. The city’s resilience in the face of challenges, the spirit of generosity that permeates its streets, and the collective effort to step out of comfort zones and embrace the unknown are the true markers of Trieste’s triumph.
As for our magazine, the year started with the loss of our long-term writer Ashley Caneva, who will forever remain in our hearts, followed by months of rethinking and refocusing on what we really wanted our magazine to become. This year we came out with four print editions, the last one came out on 22 December, the editions have traveled the world and secured many a reader for our daily website. In 2024 we will focus even more on bringing the rest of the world closer to city of Trieste through continuous digital innovation. Running a magazine is a bit like running a marathon, there are times when you think “Who Made Me Do This?” and others when you’re so blissfull you can’t believe how lucky you’ve been to get to where we are today. One of those proud moments for our magazine happened on 26 December when the interview with Christopher Swaim (in our winter 23/24 edition) was mentioned by the national ANSA news and was picked up by all of the major news outlets around Italy: Repubblica, Stampa,Rai, Corriere, Corriereveneto, Triesteprima, Ilgiornale, Ilgazzettino and even UK’s The Times.
As we embark on a new year, let the lessons of Trieste be a guiding light for us all. In the face of challenges, let us remember the importance of helping others, sharing our blessings, and stepping out of our comfort zones. Trieste has shown us that a community’s strength lies not only in its landmarks and infrastructure but in the hearts and actions of its people.
