Living thousands of kilometers from her homeland, Windsor-born Amanda Vojvodin-Dargenio finds herself immersed in the electric atmosphere of the Milano-Cortina Winter Games in Milan, Italy. Despite the distance, she feels a profound connection to Canada, declaring unwavering support for Team Canada alongside her family.
A Home Away From Home Amid Olympic Excitement
Vojvodin-Dargenio, an international education program director who moved to Europe in 2012 for studies in Grenoble, France, now resides in Milan with her husband Michelangelo and their two children. She describes the city as packed with thousands of enthusiastic fans, creating an incredible environment where people from around the globe gather to cheer for their nations.
"It's super-exciting," Vojvodin-Dargenio told the Windsor Star. "Milan is filled with people who are just so excited to be here and to support their countries—it's incredible."
Fostering Canadian Pride Across the Globe
When it comes to the Winter Games, Vojvodin-Dargenio emphasizes that there is no divided loyalty in her household. "We're 100 percent Team Canada," she stated firmly. She views the Olympics as a pivotal opportunity to instill Canadian values in her children, sharing what it means to be Canadian from afar.
"It's important that my kids have Canadian pride," she continued. "The Olympics are a great opportunity for me to share what it means to be Canadian. I get to pass along those values of kindness and being a good neighbor... all of the things that make me feel Canadian."
Immersive Olympic Experiences and Traditions
During an interview on Day 5 of the Olympics, Vojvodin-Dargenio highlighted the palpable excitement in Milan, where fans sporting jerseys from various countries fill streets and public squares. Strangers often strike up conversations upon spotting familiar colors or flags, fostering a sense of global community.
Pin trading, a long-standing Olympic tradition, has become a daily ritual for many visitors. Vojvodin-Dargenio noted that people swap keepsakes as they move between venues and fan zones, with interactions like, "Oh, you're Canadian? I'm from Switzerland," becoming common occurrences.
"It makes me really proud to walk around and say 'I'm a Canadian,'" she expressed warmly.
Volunteering and Cheering for Team Canada
Amid the bustling crowds and events across Milan, Vojvodin-Dargenio seized the chance to volunteer for Team Canada during the Games. She spent a day helping fellow Canadians pack and organize athlete uniforms—a behind-the-scenes experience she described as "really awesome."
Additionally, she scored tickets to watch Canada's women's hockey team face Finland in their final preliminary round matchup, reveling in the incredible atmosphere where everyone was happy, smiling, and chanting together.
Milan's Embrace of the Olympic Stage
Beyond the Games, which continue until February 22, Vojvodin-Dargenio observed that Milan has fully embraced its moment on the world stage. Pop-up events, public viewing areas, and Olympic-themed activities have drawn both residents and tourists into the celebration, enhancing the city's vibrant spirit.
This experience not only highlights her personal journey but also underscores the unifying power of the Olympics, bridging cultures and fostering pride across borders.
