Nancy Dell'Olio - lawyer
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Writer, lawyer and entrepreneur, Nancy Dell’Olio takes a keen interest in projects that work with vulnerable young people and is ambassador for several charities, including Vital Voices Global Partnership, an organization led by Hilary Clinton. Crowned as the 'first lady of football', Nancy is the chairwoman of Truce International, the charity she founded with Sven Eriksson, which aims to use football as a means of uniting people in areas affected by war. The inspiration for this foundation stems from the Great War when a group of German and British met in no-man's land on Christmas eve, forgot about the horrors of war and played football together, illustrating the unifying power of the game. After that game some soldiers gave up their arms and returned home to their families. In her role as an ambassador, Nancy visited Israel numerous times to promote football there as a force for peace.
Having studied law at the University of Bari, La Sapienza in Rome and completed her Masters at New York University, Nancy Dell'Olio has practiced law in Manhattan before moving to the UK. More recently, she has published her autobiography, My Beautiful Game, telling the story of her life so far. From her childhood in New York and Puglia and the accident that nearly killed her, to the successful career in international law and the passions which drive her on, this is an inspirational and entertaining glimpse into the life of a fascinating and enigmatic woman.
The Accademia asks Nancy Dell’Olio some questions:
As a fan of the British Economist John Maynard Keynes – you recently wrote a piece for The Economist, conveying the importance of optimism and investment as important factors for recovery from any recession. What is your view of the present global economic crisis, are politicians doing enough to restore consumers’ confidence?
I believe Politicians are doing more than enough on a global level. It is a unique situation and as such a unique response is necessary. The situation is of course individual to each country but globally the right process will always involve a matter of compromise. Obama said the world is changing – There will be a new form of socialism. We as the public have to adjust our ways; it is not the politician’s sole responsibility.
You are also a businesswoman and recently launched a sophisticated nightwear range, N.D? Has the current economic climate affected your business objectives?
In one way yes, though I do believe there is space for more quality and elegance especially within difficult times. Choosing longevity rather than flippant purchases is the way forward. My business objectives are not only economic and I believe in my brand.
“Kick-a-Ball for Peace” is the slogan of Truce International, an initiative that promotes world peace with an international peace day - a cease-fire for a game of football. What inspired you to come up with such a plan?
Having been in a privileged position to see many international and national football matches with my partner at the time, Sven Goren Eriksson, I was struck at the unifying nature of the game. Once you are on the pitch it is not who you are, but the game that is important. Life long rivals will play alongside each other and feel part of a team. This inspired us to help in less fortunate countries, by raising awareness and funding, to build football pitches and provide kit where needed.
As well as being the chairman of Truce International, you are involved with several other charity projects. How do you find time to devote yourself to them all?
As well as Truce International I am the UK Ambassador for Vital Voices – A charity lead by Hillary Clinton that aims to give women a voice. I am an Ambassador for the Red Cross, and I also support Cancer Research UK, Save the Children and the Terrence Higgins trust. I believe that charitable organisations do vital work to those in need, and as such I will always find the time to support.
Born in New York, you moved to Bisceglie when you were five. At eighteen moved to Rome to study law at the Sapienza University. After graduation you moved back to the States to study International Law at the New York University. In recent years you have lived at various locations around the world, but … where, really, is ‘home’?
London at the moment. I am lucky to have more than one place I call home, but it is where I have most projects and affinity, and at the moment that is London – for now.
Which book will you pack for your next trip?
Several – both Italian and English. I also try to catch up on current affairs when I am travelling – it has to be something that I can dedicate some time too
In recent years your personality has taken you to television. What is your family and friends’ reaction to your popularity?
They still treat me as Nancy. They are aware of the interest and popularity but don’t treat me any differently.
Was there a special person(s) or event(s) that inspired you over the years that gave you strength to persevere?
You must take strength from yourself – Your dreams, inspirations and the inner you are your motivation to make you who you are.
What is the most gratifying moment of your career/life?
There are a few moments – In my career it would be my graduation from law school, completing my masters and publishing my book. In my life: the recovery from my accident.
And the most difficult, and how did you overcome it?
Again my accident – I was lucky that I saw it as a poignant event and as such was able to stay positive and learn from it in a constructive way.
What is hope for you?
You can’t live without Hope – There is no other gift to give another. The strength and platform for life is Hope. I can’t imagine anything worse than loosing your Hope.
Does 'perfection' exist?
Yes – all Gods creations. In society it is difficult to define what perfection is.
What is your next dream?
To be soon in love again though every day brings a new dream
What advice do you have for any aspiring young people working around the world?
Stay true to your values, principals and strength gained in your homeland. These are you roots and will place you in good stead wherever you may be in the world.
Nancy Dell'Olio - lawyer
