At StartUp Terminal, we believe our diversity is our strength. As International Woman’s Day grows near, we celebrate the achievements of women around the world.
To kick off our celebration, we’ve asked Australia-based entrepreneur Patricia Pallozzi, Director at Raffaele Ciuca, few questions on her experience achieving success in the field of entrepreneurship, and what advice she has for women entering the workforce today.
ST: Please tell us briefly about you.
Patricia: My name is Patricia Pallozzi and I am the director of Raffaele Ciuca Bridal. I grew up around tape measures, pins and wedding dresses however, it was only when Dad took me on a trip to Chicago in my early 20s that I fell in love with craftsmanship, high end fabrics and the distinct style that embodies wedding dress fashion. Along with my sister Claudia, I search far and wide to bring the latest bridal trends to Raffaele Ciuca’s two Melbourne boutiques in Brunswick and Armadale. I also oversee all things marketing including social media, the website and the RC curve range.
ST: Who is a woman that inspires you the most and why?
Patricia: My mum, Tina Ciuca. At the young age of 15, mum bravely left her small island town in Italy and ventured to Australia by boat in search of a better life. In Australia, she made it her mission to learn English and embrace any opportunity that came her way. In an incredible display of will and determination, mum was able to overcome language, economic and gender barriers to create Raffaele Ciuca with her husband Raffaele. Together, as non-English speaking immigrants, they were able to create a successful business that now has over 40 employees. She is a constant reminder that hard work, determination and resilience can help you achieve anything you desire in life.
ST: How are you celebrating this year’s International Women’s Day?
Patricia: I’ll be catching up with the two most important women in my life, my mum and sister. Together, we’ll share a coffee and undoubtedly reflect on the incredible achievements of women on both a macro and more personal level.
ST: What is the most important message you want to send out to all the women around the world on this occasion?
Patricia: Embrace your imperfections. Nobody, and I repeat, absolutely nobody on this Earth is perfect. Social media may tell us otherwise, but I can guarantee you that everybody is in some way flawed. Instead of thinking of your flaws destructively, give yourself the grace to be imperfect and recognise that you are enough just the way you are.
ST: What according to you is ‘women empowerment’?
Patricia: For me, ‘women empowerment’ is about ensuring progress is made towards making women more independent, prosperous and respected. It is about ensuring girls and women are afforded an environment where they can thrive and achieve any of the goals they set their mind to.
ST: What would you say are the main challenges facing women at present globally?
Patricia: The greatest challenge I believe that women face globally is believing that we are worthy right now, at this exact point in time. We keep telling ourselves that we’ll be worthy once we get that job promotion or lose 10 kgs when in reality, we should and must see ourselves as worthy now. We are worthy of an abundant and fulfilling life right now, we just have to see it.
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