World
December 8, 2024 11:00
monza - PizzAut, an Italian restaurant in Monza, intentionally employs autistic individuals with great success and love, creating a welcoming environment for both employees and customers.
The owner of PizzAut, Nico Acampora, purposefully hired autistic individuals to give them a chance in society. With a child on the autism spectrum himself, Acampora saw it as his calling to support autistic youth. He wanted them to integrate into society rather than be confined to institutions, and his decision has been widely appreciated. The autistic employees radiate happiness and hold him in high regard.
A sign at the entrance and in the bustling main hall of PizzAut reads in bold letters: "It is forbidden to crush dreams."
When ordering a pizza, a waiter named Letizia approaches. Acampora proudly mentions that she has recently learned to write, and her penmanship is clear. Beaming, Letizia displays the order she has written down. She then confidently communicates the order and gives Acampora a spontaneous hug upon returning. Acampora jokingly refers to this as the 'cuddle break', emphasizing the importance of such gestures for a more compassionate world.
Another waiter, Chiara, seemingly neurotypical at first glance, is revealed by Acampora to have a milder form of autism. Acampora emphasizes the diversity within the autism spectrum, stating that everyone has their own story. The pizzas, also made by autistic youth, receive high praise for their taste. Acampora stresses the importance of customer satisfaction and mentions the flourishing business with a large number of reservations.
Acampora later addresses the customers over a microphone, recounting the challenges he faced in establishing PizzAut. Despite encountering skepticism and dismissive attitudes, he persevered. He proudly declares PizzAut as the only pizzeria run entirely by autistic individuals, with another branch located in the Milan province.
Lorenzo, a waiter at PizzAut, shares his experience of feeling reborn after leaving a center for disabled individuals to work at the pizzeria. Acampora explains the training autistic employees receive to adapt to their roles, highlighting Lorenzo's journey and his integration into the team. Lorenzo expresses his gratitude for the supportive work environment, highlighting the camaraderie among colleagues and the paternal role Acampora plays in their lives.
Acampora's deep understanding and appreciation for each autistic employee's unique qualities, interests, and triumphs are evident. He shares Letizia's emotional journey to join the pizzeria, emphasizing her dedication and progress in taking orders. The narrative of Letizia's transformation from a predicted path to a center for disabled individuals to a valued worker at PizzAut resonates with the audience, resulting in a heartfelt moment of shared joy and applause.