A special conversation with Isabella Rossellini

On 23rd May 2024, we had the honour of welcoming Isabella Rossellini to our Rome Campus. An ACM Alumna, Isabella is a model, actress, ethologist, and filmmaker. Her return to the halls of her alma mater was a moment of great emotion and inspiration for all of us.

Isabella Rossellini, who grew up between Paris and Rome, completed her studies at the Accademia Costume & Moda in Rome before moving to New York, where she began her career as a translator for Italian journalists. Her talent quickly caught the eye of Renzo Arbore, who hired her as a correspondent for RAI-TV. This role marked the beginning of a brilliant career, seeing her become a celebrated model, gracing the covers of prestigious fashion magazines and working with renowned photographers.

Despite her great success in the fashion world, Isabella pursued other passions as well. She embarked on a career in acting, working with internationally acclaimed directors and securing roles in iconic films that cemented her status in the cinematic landscape. Her ability to reinvent herself was further demonstrated when, at 40, she founded her own cosmetics brand, Manifesto, following a long collaboration with Lancôme.

In subsequent years, Isabella took a new path by dedicating herself to the study of ethology. She completed a master’s degree in this field and created comedic and informative theatre shows about animalbehaviour, once again showcasing her extraordinary versatility and commitment to scientific dissemination. Her short films “Green Porno” achieved great success, combining humour and scientific knowledge in an innovative way.

During her meeting with our students, Isabella also spoke about her project “Mama Farm“, an initiative that blends a love for nature and sustainability with rural life. This project is yet another example of her ability to merge art, science, and social commitment, offering a model of life that inspires and motivates the younger generations.

Isabella Rossellini has transformed every challenge into an opportunity, continuously renewing herself and her career. Her visit was an amazing source of inspiration for our students, who were able to draw valuable lessons from her experience and passion.

A heartfelt thank you, Isabella. Having you with us was wonderful and profoundly inspiring for our entire academic community.