Empowering Women: Olympic Champion Viviana Bottaro Joins Forces with Legitimate Self-Defence
This International Women’s Day, Senigallia will welcome a true champion for women’s safety: Olympic medalist Viviana Bottaro. Bottaro, a decorated karateka with multiple European titles and a historic bronze medal from the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, has become the newest ambassador for Legitimate Safe Defense (Difesa Legittima Sicura).This initiative, responding to a growing need for extensive security solutions, has been empowering individuals across 18 Italian regions for years, with a particular focus on protecting women.
The 34-year-old Genoese athlete, a member of the Fiamme Oro team, will be in the Marches region from March 5th, participating in events organized in Senigallia and ostra. this marks her first public appearance as a Legitimate Safe Defense ambassador.
Joining Bottaro will be lawyer Roberto Paradisi, who, alongside colleague Matteo Giambartolomei, leads the project’s national network.They will be accompanied by two other Olympic medalists who have long been advocates against gender-based violence: Lucia Morico, a bronze medalist in judo at the 2004 Athens Olympics, and Rosalba Forciniti, who secured a bronze medal in judo at the 2012 London Olympics.
These International Women’s Day events are being held in collaboration with Fijlkam,the Federation of judo,Wrestling,Karate and Martial Arts,which has generously granted its patronage. The initiative underscores the importance of equipping women with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves, contributing to a safer and more equitable society.
Empowering Women Through Self-Defense: An Interview with Olympic Champion Viviana Bottaro
Welcome back, sports fans! Today, we’re diving into a topic thatS close to my heart: women’s safety and empowerment. we’re honored to have a true champion both on and off the mat, Olympic bronze medalist Viviana Bottaro, here with us today.
Viviana, thank you so much for joining us. Your recent partnership with Legitimate Safe Defense (LSD) is incredibly inspiring. Can you elaborate on what drew you to this initiative, especially considering your impressive list of achievements in karate?
Viviana bottaro: Thanks for having me. It’s a privilege to be here. You know, achieving success in karate requires discipline, strength, and strategy. These are the very qualities that LSD promotes in empowering women to protect themselves.
Being an athlete has taught me the importance of self-confidence and awareness. However, I realized that these skills are not exclusively learned on the mat. LSD’s focus on practical self-defense techniques coupled with legal awareness is crucial for women’s safety in everyday life.
Moderator: Absolutely. LSD’s commitment to security solutions across 18 Italian regions is truly commendable.This International Women’s Day event, with its collaboration with Fijlkam and the presence of fellow Olympic medalists Lucia Morico and Rosalba Forciniti, signifies a powerful message of solidarity against gender-based violence.
Do you see this initiative as a vital step towards addressing a wider societal issue, or is it focused primarily on individual empowerment?
Viviana Bottaro: It’s both, really. While personal empowerment is at the core, LSD aims to spark a dialogue about the prevalent issue of violence against women. By equipping women with the knowledge and skills to defend themselves, we’re addressing the individual level. Reclaiming one’s power and safety can have a ripple effect, encouraging other women to take charge of their well-being and, hopefully, prompting a broader societal shift towards respect and equality.
moderator: That’s a powerful point. It’s not just about reacting to violence,but proactively building a culture where it’s no longer tolerated.
Now, I understand LSD emphasizes practical self-defense techniques.
Can you share some examples of what women can expect to learn through this program?
Viviana Bottaro: LSD training incorporates a range of techniques tailored to real-life situations. We cover awareness and prevention strategies, basic strikes and escapes, verbal assertiveness, and de-escalation tactics. It’s not about teaching women to become fighters, but rather to equip them with the confidence and skills to navigate potentially risky scenarios.
It’s vital to remember that each situation is unique,and there’s no single “right” response. LSD empowers women to make informed decisions based on their individual circumstances and equip them with the tools for self-protection.
Moderator: That’s a crucial point about individual assessments and decision-making. It sounds like LSD takes a holistic approach, blending physical skills with mental preparedness.
What would you say to women who might be hesitant to engage in self-defense training, perhaps feeling intimidated or uncomfortable?
Viviana Bottaro: I understand. It can be daunting to step outside your comfort zone. But I encourage women to view this as an investment in their safety and well-being.
LSD provides a supportive and empowering habitat.
Our instructors are highly experienced and trained to create a safe space for learning. Remember, strength comes in many forms – physical, mental, and emotional.
Taking this step towards self-defense is not a sign of weakness,but a testament to courage and resilience.
Moderator: Beautifully said, Viviana. Your passion for this cause is truly inspiring.
We want to open the floor to our readers. What are your thoughts on women’s self-defense?
Do you beleive initiatives like LSD are essential? Have you ever considered participating in similar programs? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation going!
