MILAN - A large audience of students, some from the Teuliè military school,
were at the Apollo Cinema in Milan this morning. Among them were several
representatives of the most important institutions from the world of sport and
culture. Inter’s Francesco Toldo was also there participating in the Icarus
Project, a road safety campaign that began in 2001 and for over eleven years
has involved more than 100,000 students in 161 Italian cities. It is promoted
by the police together with the Ministries of Infrastructure, Transport and
Education and the ANIA Foundation of insurance companies for road safety. Also
participating is the Psychology department of Sapienza University of Rome and
the Movement of Italian Parents.
It’s an important and valuable campaign capable of speaking to young
people in their own language. Francesco Toldo was also impressed by the three
episodes of the film ‘Young Europe’, directed by Matteo Vicino. The film tells
the stories of three young Europeans: Julian, a promising basketball player;
the beautiful Josephine, at risk for several types of addiction; and Federico, the
Roman teenager who sides with an immature 35 year old over his policeman
father. France, Italy, Ireland and Slovenia provide the backdrop to their
stories. 'Young Europe' is an engaging tale dedicated to young people but open
to many different interpretations. A true 'J'accuse' that is moving, direct
and, most of all, realistic. Inspired by the belief that prevention must come
through all levels of communication, 'Young Europe' is available to everyone on
YouTube (also in HD).
'Project Icarus' is also capable of generating dialogue with young people by means of its direct first-hand accounts, driving circuits and reconstructions that explain high-risk behaviour. In its eleven years it has become a pilot project in Europe, with the aim of teaching respect for the rules and giving back more to young people who travel throughout Europe, showing that it’s possible to have fun without putting oneself at risk.
