We had the good fortune of connecting with Francesco Duberli and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Francesco, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I first envisioned Survivors Pathway, it was driven by a profound sense of purpose and a burning desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of domestic violence victims. Witnessing the immense suffering and the lack of comprehensive support services available, I knew I had to take action. I firmly believed that every survivor deserves a pathway to healing, empowerment, and a brighter future.

Starting this organization was not merely a business endeavor for me; it was a calling, a mission to create lasting change. I wanted to establish an organization that could provide holistic support, not only through advocacy services and mental health assistance but also by tackling the pressing issue of HIV. By destigmatizing HIV, raising awareness about protection, and offering testing and outreach programs, we aim to transform lives and ensure that survivors receive the care and resources they deserve.

Survivors Pathway stands as a testament to the power of compassion, resilience, and the unwavering belief that together, we can break the cycle of domestic violence and help survivors reclaim their lives.

What should our readers know about your business?
Survivors Pathway is more than just a non-profit organization; it is a beacon of hope and transformation for survivors of domestic violence. What sets us apart from others is our comprehensive approach to healing and empowerment. We not only provide advocacy services and mental health support but also address the critical issue of HIV through our testing and outreach programs. This holistic approach allows us to address the intersecting needs of survivors and offer them a multifaceted pathway towards a brighter future.

What I am most proud of and excited about is the impact we have made in the lives of countless survivors. Witnessing the journey of individuals who come to us broken and traumatized, and seeing them heal, grow, and regain their sense of self-worth, is truly inspiring. It fuels our passion and drives us to keep pushing forward.

Getting to where we are today has not been an easy journey. We faced numerous challenges along the way, including limited resources, societal barriers, and the deep-rooted stigma surrounding domestic violence and HIV. However, we overcame these obstacles through perseverance, resilience, and a strong network of supporters who believed in our cause. We sought out strategic partnerships, collaborated with like-minded organizations, and leveraged community engagement to expand our reach and amplify our impact.

Throughout this journey, we have learned valuable lessons. We have learned the power of empathy and active listening when working with survivors, as their voices and experiences must guide our efforts. We have learned the importance of continuous education and adaptation to address the ever-evolving needs of the individuals we serve. And perhaps most importantly, we have learned that change is possible, and that even small steps can make a profound difference in someone’s life.

What I want the world to know about Survivors Pathway is that we are here, standing as a source of strength and support for those who have experienced domestic violence. We believe in the resilience and potential of survivors, and we are committed to empowering them to reclaim their lives. Our story is one of hope, compassion, and collective action. Together, we can break the silence, challenge societal norms, and create a world where every survivor finds the pathway to healing and renewed possibility.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting Miami for a week, I would make sure they experience the best of what this vibrant city has to offer. Here’s an exciting itinerary that captures the essence of Miami:

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Day

After picking up my friend from the airport, we would head straight to Miami Beach to soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches.
We would indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant like Joe’s Stone Crab or Monty’s Raw Bar.
In the evening, we would explore the iconic Art Deco Historic District of South Beach, marveling at the colorful architecture and vibrant nightlife.
Day 2: Cultural Immersion

We would start the day by visiting the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) to admire contemporary art and breathtaking waterfront views.
For lunch, we would venture to Little Havana, where we would savor authentic Cuban cuisine at Versailles or El Exquisito.
Afterward, we would explore the historic neighborhood, sipping strong Cuban coffee, watching domino games in Domino Park, and perhaps even catching a live salsa performance.
Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

A day trip to Everglades National Park would be a must. We would take an airboat tour to spot alligators, explore the unique ecosystem, and immerse ourselves in nature.
For lunch, we could grab some fresh ceviche or fish tacos at a local seafood spot like Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market.
In the evening, we would head to Wynwood, known for its vibrant street art scene. We would explore the colorful murals, visit art galleries, and enjoy dinner and drinks at one of the trendy eateries like Wynwood Kitchen & Bar.
Day 4: Island Escape

We would embark on a day trip to Key Biscayne, a serene island paradise. We could rent bikes and explore Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, home to beautiful beaches and a historic lighthouse.
For a memorable lunch, we would indulge in fresh seafood at Rusty Pelican, overlooking the sparkling waters of Biscayne Bay.
We would wrap up the day by relaxing on the beach, savoring the peaceful ambiance of the island.
Day 5: Explore the Neighborhoods

We would spend the day hopping between Miami’s diverse neighborhoods. Starting in the trendy Design District, we would explore upscale boutiques and enjoy a gourmet lunch at one of the chic restaurants like Mandolin Aegean Bistro.
Next, we would head to Coconut Grove, a bohemian neighborhood. We would stroll through the charming streets, visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, and stop for dinner at GreenStreet Café.
In the evening, we would experience the vibrant energy of Miami’s nightlife in the famous Brickell neighborhood, enjoying cocktails and dancing at one of the trendy bars or lounges.
Day 6: Water Activities and Sunset Views

We would spend the day on the water, indulging in water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing along the beautiful coastline.
In the evening, we would head to the iconic South Pointe Park to catch the breathtaking sunset over the ocean, followed by a romantic dinner at a waterfront restaurant like Smith & Wollensky.
Day 7: Farewell and Farewell Feast

To bid farewell to Miami, we would have a farewell brunch at a trendy spot like The Deck at Island Gardens, with stunning views of the Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay.
Before saying goodbye, we would take a leisurely walk along the scenic Ocean Drive, reminiscing about the incredible week of exploration and creating unforgettable memories.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
To my amazing staff

Website: https://www.survivorspathway.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivorspathway/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.