An extremely eventful life, that of Italian-American fashion designer Benedetta Maria Ferraro, New Yorker by birth but Italian by adoption. Recently awarded the Semplicemente Donna Prize in the Entrepreneurship for Social Work category, Benedetta has traversed fashion, sports and civic engagement with the same energy with which she traverses the world, from plane to plane, without ever stopping.
“In the rare moments of calm,” she recounts, “I would devote myself to the study of medicine. But then, in a factory in New York, I was overwhelmed by a passion for drawing.” From there, the natural landing place in clothing design: testing aesthetics and image, she found her creative path. Today, she sports a degree in Fashion Design from the United States, and a line of essential, highly feminine dresses designed for every occasion, even grand evening galas.
But his mind goes beyond appearance. Fashion is just one piece of a larger puzzle. Because social work is in her DNA. With the B&M Ferraro Foundation NYC, Benedetta supports women in economic hardship or who are unemployed, helping them regain their self-confidence. “Independence can be achieved,” she says, “if you build a support network. It starts with the donation of a dress, but it goes to something much deeper.”
The association is also active in the sports and hospital field: it gives toys and Easter eggs to children with heart disease hospitalized in hospitals and schools in Palermo. With her husband Maurizio Pezzati, in 2019 she founded the women’s A11 and A5 soccer team ASD B&M Ferraro New York City, made up of girls with financial difficulties. No sponsors, all self-funded. An act of love.
“Our sports, educational and social program was created to provide free afternoon activities for children from less affluent families. Sports, sociality, solidarity: this is how values grow.” The goal? To value differences and accompany the youngest children on a path of healthy growth – physical, intellectual and relational.
Not surprisingly, she was named an Ambassador of Let’s Build Kindness (Cort et Amor) and honored as Sicilian Woman 2024.
In front of us, in his sunny blond face, he proudly claims his American roots and his love for Italy.
What is it like, for you, the Big Apple?
“Ah… my “Big Apple!” A wonderful job opportunity. An opportunity for young people. I opened a Sporting Club and also a factory where we make clothes for young women and ladies. Our mission is to support women by helping them cultivate their passion for sports and tailoring.”
New York is home, in short.
“Yes, yes! And I wouldn’t change her for anything in the world. I love her deeply.”
His eyes sparkle. And speaking of dreams-is New York the place where they really come true?
“Absolutely. It is a world apart. I invite you to come and visit us. Dreams are built here, removing all obstacles.”
A thought on the election of Donald Trump?
“Actually, I’m glad. I consider him a fighter, a great person. He does what he says. Kamala Harris is also a great woman: despite the short time to establish herself, she has shown courage. And I really hope that soon a woman can become president of the United States.”
Let’s get into the heart of fashion. What do your American dresses look like?
“Inspired by the American flag: white, blue and red. Wide and showy garments, very creative. With a hint of pride, I think they are wonderful. I invite anyone to come and see and touch them.”
Who are more elegant: Italian women or American women?
“Oh my…if we talk about elegance, Italians win hands down! However, even American women, wearing my clothes and with the right image work, can dress beautifully. Every woman is different, and fashion is precisely about enhancing each uniqueness.”
President of a women’s soccer team in Sicily and New York. Sports are fundamental to her.
“Absolutely. It keeps away from addiction, bullying and violence, including violence against women. By helping each other, we find time to train mind and body, to socialize. I will never stop repeating it: sports is the best medicine.”
He divides his time between his beloved New York and Sicily…
“And not only that! The world is big, and I want to experience it all.”
But Italy also remained in her heart. How did she feel about receiving the Semplicemente Donna Award in Castiglion Fiorentino?
“A beautiful emotion. Speaking about my profession and the values I believe in, in front of all those people, was unforgettable. I thank Angelo Morelli, Chiara Fatai and all the staff for their professionalism. It was a real pleasure to participate.”
Would you like to add anything?
“Thank you very much, and congratulations to you on your beautiful smile.”
My smile? Does it by any chance resemble Smile, sung by Noa?
The article There is apple and apple: Newton’s apple and the American apple comes from TheNewyorker.
