Two Worlds, One Heart: Gino’s Journey from Calabria to BC. Gino’s story begins in Grimaldi, Calabria. In 1952, he was just a child when he boarded a ship with his mother and sister to join his father, who had moved to Canada two years earlier to pave the way. They set sail on November 10th […]
Italian immigration to Canada
Stories of Belonging: Enzina
From Mergellina to Vancouver: Enzina’s Story Enzina was just eleven years old when she left Mergellina, Naples. She arrived in Canada with her parents and brother, leaving behind everything she knew for a life that, at first, felt completely foreign. She’ll tell you herself—she didn’t like it in the beginning. It was too cold, […]
Stories of Belonging: Rossana
Celebrating Friendship and Heritage: Rossana I met Rossana four years ago through my cookbook, and from that very moment, we became instant friends. Rossana is from Bergamo and I am from Valtellina; right away, we discovered how much we share—our roots, our love for Italian traditions, and our joy in creating memories together. Since then, […]
Stories Of Belonging: Nonna Elena
Nonna Elena: An Italian Immigrant’s Story of Courage, Tradition, and Community in Vancouver. Italian immigration to Canada is filled with stories of courage, tradition, and resilience—and Nonna Elena’s journey is one of them. From the hills of Avellino to the heart of Vancouver, she carried her Italian roots across continents, building a life rich in […]
Ciao! I'm Mamma Marzia
Born in Naples and raised in northern Italy, I brought my passion for authentic Italian cooking to Vancouver in 2003. What began as a single lasagna class has grown into Bella Cibo ("Beautiful Food"), where I share my family's treasured recipes and traditions. Here you'll find recipes and tips for bringing Italian flavors to your home. Join me in the kitchen where we learn, laugh, and create beautiful meals with heart!