We recently connected with Sandra Burlizzi and have shared our conversation below.

Sandra, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you tell us the backstory behind how you came up with the idea?

I am the founder of a women’s group that was established primarily to address communication needs. As an expatriate for many years, my journey began when my husband’s career took us away from Italy, forcing me to leave behind a job I loved and distance myself from my home, friends, and family. Every relocation brings the challenge of starting anew, and I have now spent 11 years in the United Arab Emirates.

Six years ago, I initiated a small group of women focused on cultural and linguistic exchange. Initially, we gathered in a café to discuss a chosen topic while conversing in multiple languages. Over time, I discovered women who, like myself, possessed untapped skills, and I endeavored to integrate them into the group. This collaborative effort allowed each member to learn from one another, fostering a sense of usefulness and dynamic engagement.

What began as a humble gathering of four women has blossomed into a vibrant community of 250 members. Through various contributions, our members have shared their life and professional experiences, forging strong bonds of friendship and camaraderie. Our group is a diverse tapestry of women from around the globe, coexisting peacefully, and serving as a powerful testament to how tolerance and a commitment to inclusivity can thrive alongside intelligence and mutual respect.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My previous job in Italy was both demanding and nuanced. I specialized in rescuing struggling companies on the brink of closure by connecting manufacturers directly with consumers. My strong communication and organizational skills allowed me to work efficiently in this capacity. Before presenting a product to potential clients, I thoroughly tested it and conducted in-depth research on the manufacturing companies. I would only accept projects from companies I deemed reliable, as I sought to avoid associating with those that were likely to fail through their negligence or because the product was poor quolity.

I began my career with small businesses and gradually progressed to work with larger corporations. My track record of success—saving the companies I engaged with—significantly boosted my self-esteem. This mindset has remained with me and has been channeled into the group I lead, which I dedicate a great deal of time and energy to.

This is a non-profit initiative because I wish to keep the experience enjoyable rather than turning it into a job. The primary goal is to create a vibrant and collaborative space where women can stay active, reinvent themselves, and express their creativity through their imagination and the beauty of their souls. This group is aptly named “Re_Creation.”

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

What has consistently contributed to building my reputation is my commitment to seriousness. While some might say I am excessively serious at times, this intensity may cause me some sleepless nights but never undermines my self-esteem. I listen closely to my instincts; creativity is intrinsic to my nature, and I have successfully brought significant projects to life with limited resources.

I value constructive criticism and thrive on positive feedback, while I choose to disregard any destructive comments. Throughout my life journey, I have accomplished much, and I believe I have served as an effective coach for my family. I prefer to be actively engaged rather than sitting on the sidelines.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

At the heart of this creative journey lies a guiding mission: to combat loneliness. The warm welcome I extend to each member of the group serves as an invitation into the small social network I’ve cultivated. Within this space, everyone can find a piece of the home they left behind.

The activities I share with the group are diverse and geared toward fostering connection. Cooking and dining together, for instance, evokes the warmth of gathering in one’s mother’s kitchen. Learning a new language, culture, and customs allows members to feel comfortable with their classmates and learn from one another. Challenging oneself—whether through painting, singing with a skilled instructor, or participating in an unexpected masquerade ball—encourages exploration and growth.

Creating a crochet bag may seem daunting for many women, even those with degrees who have not previously engaged in hands-on crafts. Yet, we have witnessed beautiful creations emerge, and each moment is treated as a precious gift. We also address contemporary cultural issues, such as the impact of artificial intelligence across various professional and domestic sectors.

I fondly recall the support we provided one another during the Covid pandemic. Through Zoom, we maintained connections, sharing our feelings of isolation due to separation from loved ones and the profound grief of losing family members, as well as the heartache of being unable to reach sick parents and children in distant locations. This shared experience was undoubtedly a genuine and meaningful support system.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://linktr.ee/Recreationabudhabi?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwLJLPFleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABpzQhQt-Ig2MeHxCONzSy_JDYjypuTb9rGgai1tRHPFzZWeFOOTaTlzcTaW5b_aem_CgtkdD3eGAaRUg4AFB8IpQ