Rachel Barcellona.
In my profession as a journalist over the years, I have played and interviewed many personalities, such as in the political and sports, entertainment and more.
By: Eva Excelente.
Translation: Benjamin Marshall.
The vast majority of these conversations were face-to-face and others were remote intervews. With many guests there were feelings and with others, simply a good interview. But very rarely, I've had the opportunity to interview a person with such warmth and beauty as Rachel Barcellona.
Although, this interview was made via internet, I was very touched by the simplicity of this Beauty Queen that holds three crowns. In the case of Miss Florida, the most covered candidate for her beauty and for being the first autistic woman to participate in such an important contest.
Rachel Barcellona.Her warmth goes through all kind of borders. Her beauty lies not only on her body, but also on her treat with others. Anyone would probably think that her autistic condition could be a problem for her social life; nothing further from reality. Rachel has overcome herself; she managed to fulfill her dreams and to be a very important and strong voice for the autistic people. She is a woman who speaks from her very story with huge love and a clear message, not only for the autistic people and their families, but also for everyone in the world.
Here below the interview with the woman, beauty queen, model, anti bullying activist, activism for autism, lyric singer, the fighter and the heroine of her own history. Not in vain for many, she is the most beautiful woman in the world. And for us, who work on this blog, she´s an authentic Eva Excelente.
Rachel, first of al thank you very much for you to giving us this interview. I´m very happy to be able to share with you this opportunity. And even more now that you've become a very strong voice of the autistic people known in the whole wold. You've become an inspiration for millions of people, not only the ones that have or may have autism, but also I mean everybody in the world.
1) Tell me Rachel, how do you think autism has influenced in your life?
It has influenced my life in the respect that I want to advocate for others and be a voice for those who can't speak for themselves. I was always told that autism would impact me negatively, I was even told that I would never talk, but I recently spoke at the United Nations for World Autism Day!
2) what would you like to say to those parents that have autistic children and day by day they make huge efforts to help them to communicate and to be independent?
Autism is not a death sentence! No matter where a child is on the spectrum, they have different abilities and everyone has a purpose. A parent is the most important person in the autistic child's life, so helping them communicate/be independent is important. The best part about this is that you don't have to spend money on it, the best therapy is free! If the child has an interest, take part in it, if they want to do things by themselves or go out for a walk, let them. The smallest steps lead to the biggest results.
3) How did you overcome bullying at school? What would you say to all those children that are being bullied daily?
At first I didn't overcome it, it took a really long time and I didn't believe in myself, but my parents were supportive and helped me through. I would definitely say to kids that are being bullied to stand up for yourself or don't be afraid to tell someone!
4) How you've been able to overcome your fears? All of those feeling of insecurity that everybody have.
I still battle fears of insecurity, I think everyone does, but I always look in the mirror and tell myself that I am worth it, which is a trick my psychologist taught me. I also am very fond of inspirational quotes!
5) How was you experience at Miss Florida?
It was so much fun! I loved being onstage and making new friends. It was a hard pageant, but I'm glad I could inspire so many people.
6) Do you follow some diet? Do you practice some sport or discipline?
I love to eat as healthy as possible, some of my favorite foods are soups, veggie pasta and sushi. I also love to go for walks.
7) What beauty advise would you share with us?
Don't be afraid to go natural! Beauty comes from within, and I believe that the most beautiful things you can do is to be kind. Audrey Hepburn once said that if you want beautiful lips, say kind words! I very much agree.
8) What message do you have to all women in the world?
You have a purpose, and you are worth it! You all have a plan for your life, and whether autistic or not, you are capable of anything you set your mind to.
Rachel Barcellona.