Marilena Ciocia is a dedicated advocate for environmental protection and the inclusion of people with disabilities. As the founder of an association that focuses on these areas, her work is rooted in personal experience and a deep sense of responsibility towards vulnerable communities. Marilena’s path to this vital work began with a personal necessity: Her daughter has a disability, which fuelled her desire to make a difference in the lives of others facing similar challenges. “I am very attentive to the needs of fragile people”, she explains, emphasising the compassion that drives her efforts.
What makes her work unique is her deep connection with the people she serves. “My job is special because of the people I work with, mainly those who are fragile. They are often naive, genuine, and special”, Marilena shares. This heartfelt approach to supporting individuals with disabilities sets her apart from others in her field.
However, being a woman in this space has not been without challenges. Marilena describes one of the main difficulties she has encountered whilst working to support disabled individuals throughout their lives, especially in terms of work inclusion. “There is still no culture of acceptance for people with disabilities”, she says. This includes societal and corporate viewpoints that must evolve to embrace greater inclusion. Marilena highlights the need for more resources, including training, easier access to credit, and increased support from public institutions and organisations. She believes this cultural shift is vital for creating an environment where people with disabilities can thrive.
Despite these challenges, Marilena finds great joy in her work. “I love to experiment”, she says, excited about the opportunities the GRASS CEILING project offers. It’s giving me valuable insights into organising the future. “The project has inspired Marilena and provided the platform and support that she needs to further her mission of advocating for people with disabilities.
Although she does not have direct experience with women’s entrepreneurial aggregation, Marilena is committed to learning and growing through her involvement with initiatives like GRASS CEILING. She encourages other women starting their businesses to embrace learning and seek support. “My advice is to study and take training courses that support your idea. While it is possible to work alone, having support makes things much easier”.