The Italian Conservatives and Friends Group hosted on the 29st of March a special event offering attendees an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate a number of conservatives candidates of Italian origin standing across London and Hertfordshire in the upcoming UK local elections on 7 May.
These candidates are Sabrina Boni (Westminster), Roberto Salve (Westminster), Andrea Dardi (Kensington), Chris Vinante (Shepherd’s Bush, Hammersmith) and Salvatore Pagdades (Mayor of Sawbridgeworth, one of the youngest mayors in the UK at 22, also of Italian origins and re-standing).
“The Gathering 03.2026” formed also part of the organization’s tenth‑anniversary series celebrating a decade of community engagement and support. for the principles, values and the candidates of the UK Conservative Party.
The evening brought together members, volunteers, supporters, and community representatives for discussion, networking, and reflection on ten years of activity.
Distinguished Guests of the event were Stanley Johnson (former MEP, writer, long‑time admirer of Italy and father of the former prime minister Boris Johnson), Monica Devendran (Mayor of Amesbury, the home of Stonehenge), Ahmereen Reza (Vice President of the National Conservative Convention & Conservative Party Board Member), John Cope (hairman of the Conservative Councillors’ Association & Conservative Party Board Member).
Stanley Johnson shared an exclusive “pre‑launch” of his forthcoming illustrated table book, chronicling his journeys following in the footsteps of Marco Polo. The book’s official retail launch is scheduled for September.
Guests enjoyed an array of high‑quality Italian food, sparkling wines, and spirits supplied by the Italian Producers Organisation, led by Giusi Malcangi.
The gathering was hosted by Wafik Moustafa and Caterina Frisina, and it was organised by the Italian Conservatives Founding Chair, Chris Vinante Giovannini, who introduced all the guests.
