LESLIE SCHIRATO UNAA LIFEWORK AWARD - INDIVIDUAL

The UNAA Lifework Awards acknowledges the major role Leslie Schirato played in creating the sophisticated, discerning coffee culture in Australia and for his outstanding contribution to multiculturalism by enriching the Italian culinary heritage that we now enjoy.

The UNAA Lifework Awards acknowledges a career spanning almost 45 years starting with Leslie's first job as a 16-year-old at Cantarella Brothers in 1972 (founded 1947) then, following in his father's footsteps in 1992 (from Rolando Snr, former Sales Manager), he took over the helm of the company. True to family tradition Leslie's son, Rolando, will now follow in his footsteps as the next CEO of Vittoria Food and Beverage to ensure that the proud third-generation family business is kept alive and that its heritage continues through to the next generation.

Leslie has complemented his business success by giving back to the community through philanthropic contributions to health, youth, education and social welfare causes.