L’Orto Allegria is an educational workshop for people with disabilities or social problems. The idea of the Garden stems from Nicolò Bongiorno’s deep conviction that nature can be a powerful tool for healing and social inclusion. Inspired by his father’s commitment, Mike Bongiorno, in favour of the most fragile people, Nicolò came up with this innovative project, assisted by agro-technician Paolo Montanari, which combines caring for nature with caring for oneself and others.
For a year now, I have been photographing this reality and found that the Orto is a special place, a refuge of serenity and joy. When I arrived with my camera, Valentyn, Samuele, and Marco welcomed me with a wave of enthusiasm. They are happy to show me their progress, tell me about their discoveries, and share their experiences.
There is always an air of celebration in the garden. The boys tease, joke around, and challenge each other in games such as ‘who can pick the most tomatoes or courgettes’. At the same time, however, they are severe and focused on their work. They know that this experience is essential and helps them grow, learn, and feel part of a community.
The garden is my refuge of serenity,here I feel accepted and valued
I like photographing their smiles, expressions of amazement, eyes and looks.
I try to capture their energy, their vitality, and their drive.
And then there are the educators, like Oscar, Giuseppe, Giancarlo, Erika, Anna and Manuela, fundamental figures who support them, encourage them, and help them overcome difficulties. They know how to create an atmosphere of harmony and positivity, capable of transmitting a passion for nature and manual work to the children. It is a healthy environment, that of the Garden, where one feels accepted and valued and learns to collaborate and respect others.
Sometimes, I take a photo while Lorenzo is hoeing the earth with a radiant smile or while Davide is touching the earth with his bare hands. These are moments of pure happiness, of connection with nature and the environment around them. And then there is laughter, lots of laughter. They laugh while they work and rest during coffee breaks, and their good humour is contagious. With their more outgoing nature, Mara, Elena, and Erica take care of welcoming customers to the small garden shop.
The Garden is also a place of inclusion, where people with different abilities and backgrounds meet and get to know each other. It is an opportunity to overcome barriers, to break down prejudices, and to build bridges of friendship and solidarity.
When I return home with the photos, I feel enriched by the experience.
I saw the beauty of simplicity, the joy of being together, the power of nature.
And I realised that the garden is a place where plants are grown and the soul is cultivated.
