Chiara Colletta, beyond labels: when sport becomes active citizenship

In the existential trajectory of Chiara Colletta, 22 years old, every sporting gesture is an affirmation of identity. Her path does not follow a predetermined script, but is composed like a mosaic of judo tatami mats, dance shoes, scout tents, and swimming training sessions. A virtuous intertwining of activities that reflects the complexity and power of a life lived with fullness and determination, beyond any label.
Hers is a story that challenges the paradigm of “despite” and redefines the very meaning of participation. Brown belt in judo, hip-hop dancer, swimmer, equestrian, scout leader: Chiara is a complete athlete, a young woman who has made consistency and passion her daily language.

A story of possibilities, not limits

Telling it with clarity and love is Franca, her mother: “Chiara discovered her own potential on her own. I simply believed in her. There were no shortcuts, only work, dedication, and mutual trust.”

Judo, in particular, has become the space where Chiara has refined her sense of discipline. “The brown belt is the symbol of her journey,” Franca continues. “No privileges, only commitment. She never gives up, she knows where she wants to go, and she does it with the ethics of a true athlete.”

Scouting and responsibility: the value of experience

The scouting experience has played an equally central formative role. As a deputy leader, Chiara guides younger girls with awareness and natural authority. “Sleeping outdoors, respecting rules, taking care of others: Chiara has never held back. She has learned the deep meaning of responsibility.”

At a time when autonomy is still often denied to people with disabilities, Chiara shows that it is possible to train it, live it, and give it back to the community with proactive strength.

The family as an educational alliance

Chiara’s journey is the result of a solid family alliance, built on closeness and clear roles. “Chiara is the director of our family,” says Franca. “She changed our lives, made us better. There was no room for victimhood: what you want must be earned. For us, love is a daily, revolutionary act.”

Loneliness, resilience, choice

Franca does not sugarcoat difficulties, but reframes them in an evolutionary key. “Loneliness should not be feared: it helps you get to know yourself, to choose what truly matters. Chiara has learned to look for gardens full of colors, of possibilities, of authentic relationships.”

Green Camp 2025: a new horizon

Chiara is now preparing to take part in Green Camp 2025 in Riccione, one of the most significant events in the international youth judo scene. For her, it is not just a competition, but a ritual of growth, comparison, and affirmation. “Every year she comes back stronger, more aware. They are intense days that leave a mark.”

Participation: the urgency of a new culture

But it is on social participation that Franca delivers her sharpest analysis: “We live in a society that talks about inclusion without really knowing it. The fear of diversity is still too deeply rooted. Yet participating means being present, getting involved, offering value. Chiara does this every day, through the way she lives.”

This is also a warning to institutions and the educational world, often still unprepared to welcome the plurality of human trajectories. “It takes courage to get to know the other, to listen, to respect. Good intentions are not enough: vision is needed.”

A message for families

Franca concludes with clear words addressed to those facing a similar path: “Accepting a child with a different condition means choosing. Choosing to love, to fight, to be there. Expect nothing: seek, build, work as a team. Every step requires discipline and awareness.”

Chiara’s path is not an exception to be rhetorically celebrated, but a concrete example of what it means to build autonomy, practice citizenship, and affirm one’s presence in the world. With one extra chromosome, yes – but above all with a clear vision of happiness and dignity.

“Love is love,” Franca repeats. A love that is born from the soul, passes through bodies, and builds community. Live to believe.