Venice red carpet gets a generational makeover as politicians in their 30s make their debut

The Venice red carpet offered a glimpse of a political generational change on Wednesday evening. In place of the older figures who had appeared in previous years, Veneto Governor Alberto Stefani and newly elected Venice Mayor Simone Venturini arrived as representatives of a younger generation, both in their 30s.

Stefani, who had recently secured approval of a law on end-of-life issues, attended with Emma, an autistic girl from Verona who loves cinema and music. He said he wanted her beside him to draw attention to autism awareness and inclusion.

“I am accompanied by a special girl, Emma, whom I wanted to come on stage tonight to send a message about autism awareness,” Stefani said. “I believe this stage is a place of inclusion for an issue that deserves attention.”

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I am accompanied by a special girl, Emma, whom I wanted to come on stage tonight to send a message about autism awareness. I believe this stage is a place of inclusion for an issue that deserves attention.

Stefani said he had met Emma previously and developed a relationship with her. Asked why he had not brought a girlfriend, he replied that public figures should use such occasions to send messages. He called Emma a special friend and said he believed the Venice festival would welcome the message of inclusion.

The governor also described his connection with the Biennale and praised cinema as both an art form and a way to promote Veneto. Films that attract strong public interest, he said, can benefit the region.

Venturini attended in a tuxedo and ceremonial sash. He said experiencing the Lido as mayor felt different, because he could also appreciate the organizational, economic and logistical effort behind the event. He thanked police, workers and technicians, as well as the hospitality sector, for helping make the festival possible.

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It is different experiencing it as mayor, and you also appreciate it from an organizational point of view and through the economic and logistical chain, as well as security.