Italian craftsmanship between tradition, innovation and social value: Symbola recognition for Atelier Dama

Founded in 2005 on the basis of an idea as simple as it is powerful, the Symbola Foundation has established itself as one of the most influential catalysts for Italian excellence. Its fundamental mission is to promote a model of development based on quality, discovering, promoting, and supporting the country’s most vital forces: territories rich in history, enlightened institutions, courageous enterprises, and visionary minds. The common thread that unites them is the strategic choice to compete on global markets not by lowering costs, but by raising value, focusing decisively on four fundamental pillars: sustainability, innovation, social cohesion, and beauty.

Symbola was born as a cross-cutting alliance, bringing together worlds that have often struggled to communicate in Italy: entrepreneurship, culture, research, and associations. This approach has made it possible to build a true “Italian quality lobby,” an influential network that gives voice and strength to those who, every day, contribute to shaping an economy that is more people-oriented and, precisely because of its nature, more resilient and forward-looking. The Foundation acts as an essential point of reference, offering the opportunity to enter a high-profile ecosystem, a fertile environment where knowledge circulates, experiences are shared, and strategic relationships are forged, strengthening expertise on the issues that define competitiveness today.

At the heart of this heritage lies craftsmanship. It is not simply a productive sector, but the most authentic expression of ancient knowledge, carefully handed down from generation to generation. It is a celebration of an almost obsessive attention to detail and, at the same time, a surprising and vital ability to evolve. Contemporary craftsmanship represents a masterful synthesis of tradition and innovation, where the quality of materials, the sustainability of processes, and a deep respect for raw materials are not options but essential preconditions. In an era marked by rapid transformation, craftsmanship stands as a bastion of authenticity and the centrality of the individual.

To celebrate this widespread culture, the important campaign “Artigianato, futuro del Made in Italy” was launched, promoted jointly by the main trade associations—Confartigianato, CNA, Casartigiani—and the Symbola Foundation itself. The initiative emphasizes how craftsmanship is an irreplaceable driver of the Italian economy, generating skilled employment and preserving the social cohesion of local areas.

It is precisely in this context that the Foundation, through its prestigious initiative “100 Italian Stories,” has awarded recognition to Atelier Dama. Behind this name lies a story of passion that perfectly embodies the values promoted by Symbola. Can the Italian tradition of tailoring inspire a young foreign woman to become an academic master at the prestigious National Academy of Tailors? The story of Adriana Dama is living proof. Arriving from Tirana in her early twenties, fascinated by Italian craftsmanship, she trained in the most important companies and tailoring ateliers in Puglia, attending advanced courses of the highest level.

In 2008, she founded her own workshop, Atelier Dama, in Bari, now located in Madonnella, the historic artisan district of Bari. Here she dedicates herself to creating bespoke garments made entirely by hand, distinguishing herself for her ability to revive ancient tailoring techniques. The garments are made personally by Adriana in every single phase, from the design to the paper pattern—using the Sitam method—to the cutting and finishing, inspired by the great Italian designers. Symbola’s recognition rewards this extraordinary example of a business that combines ancient “know-how” with an innovative vision, contributing to making Made in Italy increasingly appreciated around the world and the economy more humane and capable of facing the future.