Caterina D’Ambrogio: Italo-Canadian Passion in Radio

Written by Lauren Prezio

“I don’t think I am a perfectionist, but I think I loved what I was doing and I put the passion into it”

Caterina D’Ambrogio

Introduction

The ethnographic study conducted with Caterina D’Ambrogio is intended to preserve an essential story of an Italo-Canadian individual. This documentation both in written and oral format strives to facilitate community involvement in the storytelling of rich history involving the Italo-Canadian experience. The main objective of this project is to allow Caterina D’Ambrogio to share her unique perspective and inspiring journey of navigating Canada while maintaining deep Italian roots. Through the collection of the story and photographs, we will curate a compelling narrative revolving around an accomplished woman full of passion and pride for her heritage. We strive to connect the events of the past with the lived experiences of actual people, as well as highlight an outstanding trailblazer in the Italo-Canadian community. The research recognizes the contributions of women in Canada while placing a specific focus on a figure within the immigrant community in Canadian history. Furthermore, the data collected will be available as a resource for the public and educators involved with Canadian Studies. 

Interview

On February 13, 2023, Caterina D’Ambrogio was interviewed by Lauren Prezio remotely via Zoom call. The interview has been split into two distinct parts. The first focuses on showcasing topics such as family life, attending school and being a mother, whereas part two revolves around Caterina’s career journey, especially at CHIN Radio. Through this ethnographic interview, Caterina has shared her invaluable experiences as a prominent Italo-Canadian woman who has accomplished meaningful goals using her passion as a guide. The interview reveals many details of Caterina’s life such as her experience living in Italy for many years, becoming a mother in Canada, finding her passion for music and radio, teaching and how she nurtures her deep Italian roots. 

The interview can be found by clicking the link below.

Link to the Interviews:

Pt. 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFOu2E0GQEg

Pt. 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DkBIakbmcSo

The interview transcript summary can be found below. 

Academic Poster Project

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​Resources for Educators & Researchers​

The Cultural Work of Community Radio – Google Books​

Forgotten Italians – Google Books​

​The Voice Of Canadian Multiculturalism |Chin RadioMulticultural | Toronto​

​TORONTO | Chin Radio​

​https://www.facebook.com/chinradiocanada/​​

https://www.instagram.com/chinradiocanada/?hl=en​

​https://www.thestar.com/yourtoronto/once-upon-a-city-archives/2016/06/16/once-upon-a-city-chin-picnic-prepares-for-another-50-years.html​​

https://www.thestar.com/life/2009/06/27/chin_contest_isnt_just_about_the_bikini.html

Gallery

Bibliography

All photographs included have been approved for sharing from the private collection of Caterina D’Ambrogio.

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Prezio, Lauren. “Caterina D’Ambrogio: Italo-Canadian Passion in Radio.” In Italian Communities in Canada: Heritage, Cultural and Ethnographic Studies: Legends, suprv. Teresa Russo. University of Guelph, July 2023, Guelph (essay, https://www.italianheritage.ca/2023/07/21/caterina-dambrogio-italo-canadian-passion-in-radio/). Italian-Canadian Narratives Showcase (ICNS), Sandra Parmegiani and Gurpreet Kaur.