There is a story of study, resistance and personal transformation behind the Seal awarded by the University of Salento to Nazarena Savino, 27 years old, originally from Erchie, in the province of Brindisi. An academic honor accompanied by a special mention for its contribution to social inclusion and cultural accessibility. The delivery took place on April 22nd at the hands of the rector Maria Antonietta Aiello. But behind the official recognition there is above all the journey of a young woman who decided not to stop in front of the limits imposed by the disease.
View this post on Instagram
The neurological disease and the turning point at 18
Nazarena’s life changes radically at just 18 years old, when a degenerative neurological pathology progressively compromises her autonomy. Reading and writing alone becomes impossible, as does daily life without help. Yet, precisely at that moment his most important battle was born. Next to her are her mother Lea and her sister Swami, who become an integral part of her university journey: they read texts, help her prepare for exams and accompany her in years of intense study. The result is extraordinary: Nazarena obtained a three-year degree in Greek History, then a master’s degree in Archeology with 110 cum laude, followed by a second master’s degree in History of Art, again with top marks.
Archeodisability: culture and accessibility together
The academic path soon becomes intertwined with a concrete project. Together with her sister she founded Archeodisability, an initiative created to make cultural heritage accessible to all through innovative tools, school activities, dissemination and inclusive routes in places of culture. Exhibitions, meetings and educational projects thus become the center of a work that combines archaeology, art and social inclusion. A commitment that has also allowed her to participate in international specialist courses dedicated to sustainability and the enhancement of cultural heritage.
The words dedicated to those who live among invisible obstacles
During the recognition, Nazarena wanted to dedicate the award to people forced to live with physical and social difficulties, too often ignored, which limit autonomy, freedom and dignity, underlining how hard work, sacrifice and enormous daily effort can hide behind apparently simple gestures. His thoughts also transform into a collective invitation to reflect more carefully on the topic of accessibility and inclusion. According to Nazarena, truly understanding what it means to live in certain conditions would lead society to design spaces, services and opportunities in a more conscious way, avoiding exclusions and barriers that are too often considered invisible only by those who do not experience them directly.
You might also be interested in:
