Madame Tala Dionisi: New SHOM President And YWCA Diplomatic Bazaar Chairperson
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Aside from her role as the spouse of the Italian ambassador to Thailand, Madame Tala Dionisi is taking up two challenging leadership roles this year. She was kind enough to find time from her busy schedule to talk about her new SHOM presidency and chairing of one of the annual diplomatic fundraisers.
Accompanying her husband, HE Ambassador Paolo Dionisi, the diplomatic couple arrived in Bangkok in November 2022. Well before this, Madame Tala graduated with a Master’s Degree in Business Marketing from the Lebanese American University (LAU) of Beirut, in her home country, Lebanon. Since then, she has gained tremendous experience in the media and marketing industry. Her comprehensive knowledge of media dynamics and audience engagement landed her the position of media director at a prominent TV station in Lebanon.
Looking back on her professional career, she proudly began, “As a young, fresh graduate, I was employed as the media director for the Lebanese branch of Pepsi Cola International, now formally known as PepsiCo International. PepsiCo was one of the major clients handled by the marketing agency I was working for. Throughout the project, I effectively spearheaded a multimedia campaign that significantly increased viewership and the brand’s awareness in Lebanon.”
Outside her working life, Madame Tala candidly shared that she is deeply passionate about exploring and discovering cities. “I consider myself a globetrotter, always open to learn about the beautiful places I visit. I love to travel, connect with new places, cultures and people. However, I must confess to be more of a metropolitan lover than the ‘wild’ adventurous type.
"I enjoy aimlessly walking around without any specific destination, to completely immerse myself in a city as a native rather than a tourist. I have enjoyed the captivating hidden gems in Bangkok. At times, I spontaneously stop while taking the BTS to seek out a local neighbourhood.”
She then added, “I am fascinated by food, and I believe that cuisine offers great insights into the soul of a culture. Baking serves as my therapy. Whenever I need to distract myself, I find solace in my kitchen. My guests often compliment me, saying I am a good chef.”
Talking about her leadership roles as SHOM 2024 president and chairperson of the YWCA Diplomatic Bazaar, she openly admitted, “I feel greatly honoured to serve in these two positions. I am grateful for the trust my colleagues have placed in me. For that, I am fervently committed to promoting cultural exchange and strengthening diplomatic ties during my SHOM presidency. With this duty, I focus on enhancing projects such as cultural exchanges and visits, with the aim of bringing together people from different backgrounds. We also support diplomatic efforts and collaborate in initiatives that benefit the local Thai community. I view the role of the SHOM presidency as multifaceted, encompassing representation, advocacy and leadership. My past experiences as a president in previous similar postings, notably in Abu Dhabi (UAE), have helped me to gain confidence to fulfil my responsibilities effectively. I am committed to making a positive impact within the organisation and our beloved community.”
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Madame Tala has been actively involved in charity work since a young age. “Growing up in Lebanon has enabled me to get in contact with real-world issues. From the thousands of homeless people living in the streets of Beirut to the influx of war refugees entering the country, I have always been very conscious and grateful about my privileges. Helping the ones in need and less fortunate is a good way to give back to the community. I have been actively involved in charitable organisations for several years now, whether through volunteering with NGOs or organising fundraising and awareness-raising events.
"During my time in the UAE, I was a member of the board of the 'Future Centre for Special Needs' in Abu Dhabi for four consecutive years, now re-named the 'Future Rehabilitation Centre'. As a mother myself to two wonderful girls, I have always believed in the importance and privilege of receiving an education. Teachers are the backbone of society, serving as role models of our children, offering guidance and dedication, allowing them to blossom into hard working adults in the future.
"'Future Rehabilitation Centre' caters to an average of two hundred multinational young students with disabilities of varying levels of severity, providing special education and therapy-based programmes to address the needs of these wonderful students. Each year, this amazing NGO welcomes more students and has grown bigger, thanks to its continuous commitment to provide care and meaningful learning to its students and to extend its services in education, rehabilitation and administration.
"In Rome, I was part of Operation Smile Italia Onlus, a global NGO specialising in offering cleft-lip and cleft-palate surgery and care. Operation Smile has cared for and assisted children and adults born with cranio-maxillofacial malformation, provided medical expertise and conducted research and assistance thanks to the highly specialised staff and thousands of medical volunteers from all over the world.
"Currently, I also serve as a member of the Diplomatic Board of the Thai Red Cross for 2024 and as chairperson of the YWCA Diplomatic Committee. My aim is to help those in need as best as we can.”
When asked her view on women’s roles in society, Madame Tala passionately commented, “I strongly believe in the importance of gender equality and empowering women in all aspects of society. Women play vital roles in leadership, innovation and community building. It is essential to create and keep on ameliorating the environments in which women have equal opportunities to thrive and succeed.”
Madame Tala expressed how much she appreciated the past year living in Thailand. “The experience has been enriching from all aspects. I had the opportunity to immerse in the vibrant and kind community of Thai people. The building of meaningful relationships and overcoming challenges have contributed to my personal and professional growth. I feel the blessings of the generosity, warmth and hospitality of the Thai people, together enjoying the rich tapestry of traditions and customs that make Thailand a truly unique country.”
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In her role as a diplomatic spouse, Madame Tala is closely involved in assisting to promote the cultural relationship between Thailand and Italy, in particular, the history of over 155 years of diplomatic relations. “Being part of initiatives aimed at promoting cultural exchange between Thailand and Italy has truly been a privilege. Through events, collaborations and dialogue, we are working to deepen understanding and foster connections between our two countries, honouring the longstanding diplomatic relations that have endured for a number of significant milestones.”
As our interview drew to a close, Madame Tala reiterated, “I am convinced that every experience, whether positive or challenging, is an opportunity for oneself to grow and learn. “Embrace every opportunity and challenge that comes your way, without ever forgetting to stay true to yourself, your values and beliefs. Never underestimate the impact you have on others, both in your professional endeavours and your contributions to the surroundings. Finally, as our Latin ancestors would say, ‘Carpe Diem’, Seize the day!"
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Kathleen Pokrud 125 Posts
In the business community, she serves on the Board of Directors with the Thai-Hong Kong Trade Association. Kathy is on the Thailand Tatler Magazine Expat Society The 200 List. She is the Honorary Columnist and contributing writer to a few leading English magazines. She and her husband, RADM Dr Boonyarit Pokrud have one son who is currently based in Boston, USA.
