Welcome new OIFE Volunteer: Silvia
SILVIA FALCIER
Who are you and what is your relationship to OI?
My name is Silvia, and I am 25 years old. I am an avid enthusiast of fashion and contemporary art. Holding a degree in fashion, if I were to choose a designer to admire, it would undoubtedly be Yohji Yamamoto, a figure who embodies the essence of Japanese culture. My admiration for Japanese culture extends beyond fashion; if it were possible, I would prefer to shower with ramen instead of water. Despite my Italian heritage, I consider ramen one of the most delicious and versatile foods, second only to spaghetti carbonara.
I have a passion for R&B music, metropolitan life, and the colour green. I cherish creativity and am inspired by individuals who are passionate about their pursuits.
Additionally, I live with OI, a condition that has taught me to navigate life in a wheelchair. It has also enabled me to engage in sports such as swimming and tennis for many years, and to live independently since the age of 19, spreading my sense of home across multiple cities.
How and where do you live?
Describing my current residence is challenging, as until recently, I navigated the bustling streets of Milan daily sharing my apartment with two friends. However, I have now set my course northward, with plans to settle in Oslo, Norway by the end of the year. This summer, I have enjoyed the seaside in my hometown of Jesolo, which is just a short distance from the renowned city of Venice.
The OIFE youth event in 2023 was your incentive to volunteer for OIFE. Can you explain us why?
In November 2022, I received a phone call that presented me with the opportunity to organise the next Youth Event on behalf of the Italian OI-Association As.It.O.I. Although I had never attended such an event, the name OIFE was familiar to me. The chance to join this association was an opportunity I could not pass up. This marked the beginning of a journey into a new world, where I interacted with both new and familiar faces, took on the responsibility of organising a significant event, and connected with numerous young people from across Europe. This experience brought me immense curiosity, satisfaction, and fulfilment.
Organising the Youth Event 2023 in Jesolo was a pivotal moment for me, as it made me realize my desire to engage with young people on a broader scale, drawing inspiration from across Europe.
What will be your task?
I am eager to assist others in organising events similar to the one I managed, participate in international meetings, and maintain relationships and communication with young people through social media, meetings, and emails.
In your opinion – what is the most important job/task/area for national OI organisations?
I had the privilege of serving as the Youth Coordinator for As.It.O.I., a position entrusted to me by President Leonardo Panzeri. He recognized the association’s potential to unite individuals, facilitate communication, and promote the exchange of information and ideas. In my view, one of the most critical objectives of national associations is to bring people together, thereby enriching the cultural landscape accessible to everyone.
