Manuel & Sebastian Munoz - Andes Music

                                              To hear the podcast click on the image

                         Mr. Accordion Man - Frank Miranda 

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Mr. Accordion Man is a beloved Perth-based entertainer known for his joyful, interactive performances that celebrate Italian culture through music, humour, and community spirit. With his trademark accordion, he has become a favourite at festivals and events across Australia, captivating audiences of all ages.

Beyond the stage, Mr. Accordion Man serves as the President of the Perth Italian Festival, an organisation dedicated to promoting and preserving Italian heritage in Western Australia. In this role, he plays a central part in organising one of Perth’s most vibrant cultural events, bringing communities together through food, music, and tradition.

His talent and cultural advocacy have earned him features on 6PR, ABC Radio 720, Telethon, and numerous other television and media outlets, making him a well-recognised figure in Italian-Australian celebrations across the state.

From roving performances to community leadership, Mr. Accordion Man is a proud ambassador for Italian culture—sharing music, laughter, and a deep sense of cultural pride wherever he goes.

                                                 Gioie Delle Donne Choir

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THE JOYS OF THE WOMEN ITALIAN CHOIR

 

The Joys of the Women Italian Choir was formed in 1989 and is based in Fremantle, Western Australia.  The Choir stands as a remarkable success story, its journey reflecting both continuity and transformation. Whilst the Choir’s core mission of preserving traditional Italian folk songs and musical traditions remains unchanged, the choir has evolved significantly in that the makeup of its members has broadened.

Today, the choir includes not only first-generation Italian migrant women but also second-generation Italian-Australians, as well as members originally from the United Kingdom, Spain, Ireland, Germany, and Australia itself. In addition, the choir has expanded its repertoire including a number of songs in regional Italian dialects.

The traditional folk songs the Choir sings are a medium for telling stories.  Through the exploration of universal themes such as love, happiness, longing, and everyday joys, the songs reflect Italian identity, values and history.  The choir also sings songs which served as a means of social and political expression.  Altogether, these songs create a rich cultural tapestry that resonates with audiences by blending universal emotions with uniquely Italian stories and traditions. The Joys of the Women Italian Choir is proud to keep Italian culture and heritage alive by sharing this rich and diverse repertoire of songs.

The Choir performs in Perth, Western Australian at Italian Festivals, multicultural events, in schools, and in aged care facilities.  In 2024, the choir staged a sold-out concert in Fremantle, and in 2025, they were honoured to perform as part of the Perth Festival.

The Joys of the Women Italian Choir is an example of resilience and the enduring spirit of Australia’s multicultural communities, ensuring that the traditional songs of Italian culture remain alive and accessible for generations to come. Through song, the Choir bring to life the warmth of Italian traditions, which fosters connection and joy among audience members.

                                         Etta D'Elia

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An accomplished jazz vocalist with a unique talent for song interpretation, Etta D’Elia has made an indelible impression in Perth in the decade since she moved here from her native Italy.

Etta was honoured to sing twice at the Vatican in Rome, both times broadcast live on prime-time RAI1 television. In 2004, she sang for Pope John Paul II, and in 2005, she performed for the show Notte di Luce in the presence of Pope Benedict XVI.

Etta has pursued jazz performances across WA in duos, trios, and quartets at venues such as The Crown, The Ellington Jazz Club, Jazz Fremantle, Duke of George, Lyrics Underground, The Volstead Lounge, and Velour Lounge. In 2014, at Perth Concert Hall, she performed solo in Carmina Burana by Carl Orff. In 2018, she performed live for Telethon on Channel 9.

Etta has successfully produced and performed in many jazz and cabaret shows, including her signature show Buona Sera Signorina – Italian Music Meets Jazz, which was performed at the State Theatre Centre of WA for Fringe 2023 and 2024 and at Adelaide Fringe 2024. This year, she presented her world premiere show From Naples…With Love! with great success at FRINGEWORLD 2025.

Reg Taruvinga

Reg Taruvinga: Empowering Entrepreneur, Passionate Farmer, and Transformational Keynote Speaker, Blogger and Aspiring Author.

Reg Taruvinga is a multifaceted leader, dedicated to inspiring individuals and organisations to unlock their full potential. From humble beginnings in the streets of Mbare, Zimbabwe, Reg has risen to become a seasoned entrepreneur, farmer, and sought-after keynote speaker, sharing his expertise with diverse audiences worldwide.

Reg's passion lies in helping people discover their true selves, fostering personal growth, and enhancing collaborative relationships. He founded TGC Consultancy, specialising in DISC personality assessments, to empower individuals and teams to maximise their strengths and achieve collective success.

Reg has captivated audiences at numerous events, sharing insightful perspectives on entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal development. His engaging storytelling, paired with practical strategies, inspires attendees to reframe their mindset and pursue their goals with renewed purpose.

Reg is the creator of the transformative concept, MINDTUNE, which stands for:

M - Meaning
I - Intention
N - Nurture
D - Discipline
T - Transformation
U - Unique/Utopian
N - Noble
E - Elevation/Excellence

MINDTUNE forms the basis of all his keynote speeches, guiding individuals and organisations toward holistic growth and success. At the Afropreneur Summit, Reg will deliver a powerful keynote address centred on MINDTUNE, empowering entrepreneurs to elevate their mindset and unlock their full potential.

Beyond speaking, Reg is an active blogger at Valley of Potential, where he explores various topics from day-to-day life, offering inspiring insights and practical wisdom drawn from his MINDTUNE principles. As an aspiring author, Reg plans to publish books that will transform people's lives and businesses, further solidifying his impact as a thought leader.

Reg's profile includes:

Entrepreneur: Founder, TGC Consultancy
Farmer: Passionate agricultural enthusiast
Keynote Speaker: Inspiring audiences globally
Expertise: DISC personality assessments, personal growth, team collaboration, MINDTUNE
Blogger: Valley of Potential on wordpress.
Aspiring Author: Future book publications

Connect with Reg:

LinkedIn: Reg Taruvinga
Twitter: @regtaruvinga
Website: www.valleyofpotential.life
www.youneedadisc.com

To listen to the podcast use this link: https://soundcloud.com/franco-smargiassi/reg-taruvinga

 Cozzy Kozile

Cozzy Kozile is an influential Zimbabwean musician who has been capturing the attention of audiences both in Australia and Zimbabwe. Known for his unique blend of traditional Zimbabwean sounds with Afrobeat, Zimdancehall, and Afro-fusion influences, Cozzy is quickly establishing himself as a prominent figure in the music scene.

Recent Achievements

Cozzy Kozile has had a remarkable year, highlighted by his Zim Achievers Australia Best Artist 2024 award. This prestigious accolade underscores his growing influence and talent in the music industry. His ability to merge contemporary and traditional sounds has earned him a dedicated fan base and countless performance opportunities. One of his standout events in 2024 was the Ngoma YeJiti Album Launch in Kwekwe, Zimbabwe, where he performed alongside a stellar lineup of guest artists, showcasing his latest work to an enthusiastic crowd.

Cozzy Kozile’s Impact

Cozzy’s career continues to soar, with his unique music style and captivating performances taking center stage. He has been performing at various venues and festivals, both in Zimbabwe and Australia, and has gained recognition for his dynamic stage presence and engaging live shows.

Social Media Presence and Growth

As Cozzy continues to grow as an artist, his social media platforms play a key role in engaging with fans and promoting his work. Fans can follow Cozzy for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, music previews, and more. He’s also actively seeking a social media manager to help elevate his digital presence across Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, making it easier for his global fanbase to stay connected and updated on his latest projects.

A Bright Future Ahead

Cozzy Kozile’s fusion of Afrobeat and Zimbabwean influences has made him a standout in the music industry, and his international recognition is continuing to rise. With his growing fanbase, exceptional talent, and dedication to his craft, Cozzy is poised to become a global music sensation.

Ernesto Enriquez Castillo

 Erne Castillo, born Ernesto Enriquez Castillo in the rhythmic heart of Cuba, has etched his name into the world of music as a very seasoned guitarist. From the tender echoes of his childhood, filled with the vibrant sounds of his homeland, to the grand stages of international acclaim, Erne's journey is a testament to his deep-rooted passion and commitment to the art of music.

In the year 2000, Erne's musical voyage took a pivotal turn as he stepped onto the global stage. From the International Guitar Festival to the Mosaic and Singapore Jazz Festivals, his performances have not only showcased his extraordinary talent but have also brought the essence of Cuban music to the world. His humble nature and dedication to his craft have remained constant companions throughout his journey, endearing him to both audiences and fellow musicians.​

As a composer, Erne Castillo brings a unique flavour to his creations, blending the traditional sounds of Cuba with contemporary influences to create music that transcends time and place. His original compositions are not just pieces of music; they are stories told through strings and notes, each resonating with a piece of his soul.

​

Today, Erne Castillo stands as a figure of musical excellence, a bridge between cultures, and a beacon for aspiring artists. His journey is a vivid illustration of a life lived in harmony with one's calling, a life where every strum, every chord, and every note is a celebration of music's endless beauty.

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Sister Romanus Dee

Sr Romanus Dee was born and reared in Co. Kerry Ireland. She entered the St. John of God Convent  in Co Mayo in 1948  and came to Australia in 1951. Sr Romanus did nursing training in the hospital in Subiaco. Over the years she has nursed in a variety of places including Goulburn in N.S.W., Warrnambool in Victoria. Rivervale and Bunbury in W.A. Now she is retired at St. John of God Convent in Subiaco.

Sr Romanus has now had the time and energy to write a few books and she visits the patients in the Midland Hospital. In her spare time she does knitting and sewing for the missions in the Philippines and Africa and attends to the homeless nearby. All this gives her a very happy retirement with her Community of about 50 sisters. God has blessed her with good health.

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Campbell Baird

Campbell has a bachelor of Engineering (Mining) from UNSW and a Masters of International Finance from Curtin University, he is a Member of the AusIMM & AICD and he sits on the Association of Mining and Exploration Council in Australia as Treasurer. Campbell is also Chairman of the School Board of Kyilla Primary School.

Campbell started his career in the Western Australian Goldfields, North Parkes copper mine and in Iron Ore in Canada.

Campbell has over 25 years of International Mining Experience. Campbell is presently the Managing Director of Indiana Resources, which has a number of exciting exploration and development projects in the country of Tanzania.

Campbell has extensive international development experience having worked as General Manager and Chief Operating Officer for Vulcan Resources during the pre-development of the Kylylahti Copper Gold Project, Campbell also spent 5 years working with SRK Consulting where he lead and was part of many feasibility and technical studies on open pit and underground projects across the world.

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Anne Henderson

Anne Henderson’s earliest musical training was in Melbourne studying piano. She took up bassoon at the age of 13. Anne continued her musical studies at Melbourne University, and as an International Scholarship Student in Georgia USA and returned to Australia in 1971.

 Anne left Sydney in 1973 to do a Postgraduate Course in Education at Melbourne University and eventually studied for her Master of Music Degree at Adelaide University and worked closely with the members of the Adelaide wind quintet.

 She took up a contract with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra as second bassoon and in the following year as Acting Associate Principal Bassoon until she moved to Perth. Anne joined WASO and in 1978 was appointed Principal Bassoon. She has been a member of various Chamber Music groups in Perth including Perth Wind Quintet and the Emanuel Ensemble.

 Anne retired from WASO in 2009 and continues to teach in a number of schools and performs with various ensembles including the Perth Symphony, Perth Chamber Orchestras and Fremantle Chamber Orchestra.

 She is actively involved with the Australasian Double Reed Society Anne is currently Vice President and WA Representative.

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Spiros Poulos - Greek Musician

This interview traces the life and music of Spiros Poulos, who was born in Greece, was involved in many occupations, traveled the world widely, modified the Bouzouki and wrote many of his own songs.

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Antonio Casella - Author

Published  novels:      

The Sensualist, Southfalia and An Olive Branch for Sante.                 

His Stories  have appeared in:  Westerly (3), The west Australian (3), Outrider, The Age, Antipodes.     

Reviews:

In many Australian publications including:  The West Australian, The Age (Melbourne) The Australian, The Sydney Morning Herald, The Australian Book Review.

Recognition:

A Writing Fellowship, awarded by the Australia Council

Convocation Prize awarded  by the University of Western Australia. (1993)

Writer in Residence at the Australia Council’s Whiting Studio in Rome. (1996)

Past President of  the Dante Alighieri Society of Western Australia.

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Manuela Cervellera - Puglia

Manuela was born at Putignano (Bari) in Puglia in southern Italy.

After she graduated in law form Bari’s University, she moved to Milan to do a Masters.

In Milan she spent more than 10 years working for several companies. In March 2015 she decided to quit her job and go to Yangon (Myanmar) for a new and exciting adventure.

She moved to Perth in August of last year.

Websites on Puglia:

           http://www.lonelyplanet.com/italy/puglia/history

           http://www.trulliitalyinpuglia.com/History%20of%20Puglia.htm

           http://www.visitpuglia.it

           http://www.italia.it/en/travel-ideas/culture-and-entertainment/puglia-in-musica-la-pizzica.html

           http://blog.unahotels.it/music-in-puglia-the-pizzica/

           http:// www.trulliitalyinpuglia.com/index.php/About-Puglia

           http://www.italyheaven.co.uk/puglia/

           https://memoriapugliesi.wordpress.com/pugliesi-in-australia/

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Raffaele Basini - Musician

Raffaele Basini was born in Florence (Italy) 28 April 1928 and as a child moved with his parents to La Spezia. At a young age (without the knowledge of his parents) he learnt to play percussion. He went on to create a number of bands and they played music in a variety of places including San Remo. He spent a year playing music on board a passenger ship travelling the Atlantic. In due course, by an unusual circumstance, decided to migrate to Australia in 1962. There by chance me met Roberto Valli and joined his band. They played many years together first in Melbourne and then in Perth. He had a long career in music and was instrumental in bringing new music styles in Australia including Bosa Nova, Guaracha and Cumbia. He has played till recent times at the of 88 years.

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French Panorama

Patrick Kedemos: Patrick is a French, Lebanese and Australian citizen. He is a graduate of the INSEAD MBA, holds a Master of Science from NEOMA Business School and is fluent in English, French, German, Greek and Arabic. He has over 20 years of experience, including 16 years in increasingly senior roles within the international industrial, medical and environmental gases industry at Air Liquide and Wesfarmers. Patrick started his career as the founder of Action Plus, a company providing Marketing Research to a number of industrial customers. Patrick is currently the Managing Director of Avanguard, a diversified holding company with investments in resources, retail, financial services and information technology. He also sits on a number of boards. He is the Honorary Consul for France in Western Australia.

Carine Bougnague has over 20 years of experience in Senior positions within semi-public organisations, local governments and the Alliance Française network. She started as an economic developer and later became Head of International Relations for the City of Montpellier. In this role she developed partnerships and cooperation programmes with major cities around the world. Carine is currently the Managing Director of the Alliance Française de Perth, a non-profit incorporated Australian association, part of the international Alliance Française network, whose goals are to promote the French language and Culture in WA. The Alliance Française is based in Nedlands and their native and qualified teachers teach to a large audience from 18 months old. The AF also organises the Alliance Française French film Festival every year.

Géraldine Rey: She born in France, grew up around a performing musician father. Geraldine is now a local singer-songwriter based in Fremantle. After her Australian debut with folk trio French Connexion in 2006, Geraldine performed original songs as a folk solo artist, and created in 2011 the world music fusion project Mambo Chic. In 2012, they released a first EP titled "Nyoka Musango".

Performer at heart, Geraldine Rey was lucky enough to share the stage with a number of well known musicians at various festivals / concerts in WA. Her new musical venture, G*REY, is contemporary, yet with a bit of a retro sound, easy-listening, sexy and with a twist of French-Chic style. 

"SENTIR" single has been launched at the Bonjour Perth French Festival on October 22, and is now available on all digital platforms, including YouTube: https://youtu.be/b5r3egmnPFk

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Karen King-Aribisala

Guyanese born Karen King-Aribisala currently lives in Nigeria where she is a professor of English at the University of Lagos; she is also a writer of fiction and has published numerous short stories, poems and  in various journals; her first book Our Wife and other Stories won the Best First Book (African Region) in the Commonwealth Prize for Literature; and her book The Hangman's Game won the Best Book prize (African Region) in the Commonwealth Prize for Literature. She has been educated in Guyana, Nigeria, England, Wales and Italy. Among her interests are puppet theatre and baking.

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Harmony Couple - Angella & Dean Hopkins

Dean Hopkins was born in Kent England in 1966. He studied at the Kent Institute of Art and has always led a creative life having worked as an Interior Architect, Song Writer/Music Producer, and Author. He emigrated to Australia in 1991 and has since spent a lot of time in SE Asia/Thailand with a keen interested in Eastern philosophy and culture.

Angella Hopkins was born in Bangkok in 1969. Coming from a Chinese background she has always helped run the family restaurant business in Thailand and earnt a degree as a mature student in Business studies in Bangkok as well as being a successful marketer. Angella emigrated to Australia in 2010 and has since run multiple businesses including Make Up Artistry.

Dean and Angella now both operate as entrepreneurs promoting cultural harmony and the natural health revolution throughout Australia and SE Asia.

Contact info:

Email: dean.angella@gmail.com

Website: www.deanandangella.com

"Romance in Cyberspace"

https://www.amazon.com/Romance-Cyberspace-inspiring-finding-romance-ebook/dp/B0070HSULW/159-2326273-5777759?ie=UTF8&%2AVersion%2A=1&%2Aentries%2A=0#nav-subnav

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Longevitology

Robin Tham

Chinese origin born in Calcutta, India. Educated as Mechanical Engineer. Studied in Don Bosco Technical Institute and Ryerson Polytechnic Institute University. Work as Cost Engineer in Atomic Energy of Canada, Designer of the Candu Nuclear Power Hydro Generating System. Manufacturing Engineer to Manager of Quality Assurance in Spar Aerospace, design and manufacturer of the Canada Arm on the NASA’s Space Shuttles and ISS (International Space Station). Finished the career as VP of Global Strategy & Director of Quality System with Northstar Aerospace in Canada, manufacturer of Aerospace’s jet engines gearboxes and helicopter’s transmission & rotor head assembly.

In Australia was a Consultant & Quality Manager with Quickstep Technologies on  their Quality system approval to manufacture composite components for the 5^th. Generation fighter jet, JSF35. Now on retirement as volunteer in Longevitology WA as their VP , Public Relation in Perth with four centres where volunteers provide free of charge Energy Meditation therapy session for peoples, who needs to enhance their energy to improve the wellness of their health.

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Zambia

Left - Right
Natasha Kaweme: Natasha was born in a small town called Chililabombwe on the Copperbelt in Zambia. She migrated to Australia 6 years as an international student and is currently pursuing her postgraduate in Environmental Health and holds the Vice Treasurer post for Organisation of Zambians Living in Western Australia (OZALIWA). 

Cynthia Wright (OZALIWA Chairperson): Cynthia Wright was born in Kitwe, Zambia, where she completed her schooling. Migrated to Perth, Australia in 2007 as an international student and pursued a Bachelor of Nursing at the Edith Cowan University and Post graduate certificate in Occupational Health and Safety. Cynthia Wright is currently the chairperson of the Organisation of Zambians Living in Western Australia.

Tina Milambo: She was born and grew up in Lusaka and attended schools in Lusaka. She went on to study Electrical and Refrigeration at Northern Technical College in Ndola and met her Tongan husband Kelvin. They came to Perth in 2005 and have two children. Tina works for the City of Wanneroo and loves to cook.

Iain Sammons: Was born near Kalulushi near Kitwe in 1984, and finished his schooling there. He moved to Perth in 2004, and completed a Degree in Commerce at Curtin University. He is currently the vice-chairperson of OZALIWA

Masauso Tembo was born in  Zambia. He came to Australia in 2001 as an international student, and completed two programs at ECU, Bachelors degree - double major Marketing and electronic commerce and a master of information systems. He has three children. Masauso is currently working for the Housing Authority. He is a member of the OZALIWA committee.

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African Animals & Jungle Stories

Peter Deng of Africa World Books has supported and sponsored young children to do positive things with their lives, and one result is the publication of two children books. My African Animals written by Majok Riak (illustrated by Akuch Riak) and The Jungle Stories written and illustrated by Ajoh M. Deng. These three children read their books also with the help of Kiki Nyanok.
On the photo standing Peter Deng on the left with two parents.
Children writers L-R: Majok Riak, Akuch Riak, Ajoh M. Deng and Kiki Nyanok

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