Changeworker of the week #1: Giordano Margaglio

Giordano Margaglio is a Disaster Preparedness Specialist committed to reshaping the way humans relate to Nature especially in the face of disasters. His purpose is to help build a future where vulnerable communities no longer suffer from floods, hurricanes, or tsunamis, but instead live in harmony with their environments.  Rather than being disheartened by today’s global permacrisis, Giordano has chosen to meet it with purpose, using his work to support those most at risk. At a time when the world feels increasingly chaotic, Giordano’s story reminds us that solutions already exist we just need to apply them with courage, equity, and care. His perspective is a powerful call to rethink how we prepare for disasters: not with fear, but with intention, justice, and community.

Through the #MyPieceForChange campaign, we invite people to share their unique contributions to collective transformation. This series exists to honor their stories, amplify their voices, and connect them with a wider community of like-minded peers. Today, we’re honored to introduce our very first Changeworker of the Week: Giordano Margaglio, whom we had the pleasure of interviewing for this special spotlight.

What’s your piece for change? 

My purpose is to shape a new paradigm for the relationship between humans and Nature, through the lens of so-called “disasters”. I envision a future where vulnerable communities across the world do not suffer the impact of tsunamis, floods, and hurricanes, and where they can instead coexist in a harmonious and resilient way with the natural and built environment they inhabit.

What inspired you to begin this work or stay committed to it?

Since I can remember, the world has been undergoing a never-ending cycle of disasters, which have now compounded to an unprecedented level of permacrisis within countries as well as on a global scale. Rather than being overwhelmed and disheartened by the dire present state of the world – and by the even more bleak projections of its future – I chose to embrace disaster management as an empowering purpose to be of service for communities in need during these increasingly challenging times.

What’s one hope or vision you hold for the future?

While I’m not always optimistic, I dream of a future where humankind can unite to overcome the global challenges it created, and where human ingenuity, creativity, and technology are used to reduce inequalities and nurture a healthier planet rather than expanding the wealth of the few and deplete every natural resource until its last drop.

What support or connection are you currently looking for?

Alongside my disaster management career, I have recently started a parallel journey in filmmaking to leverage the power of storytelling to spotlight the stories of communities impacted by disasters and the climate crisis more broadly. I would love to connect with other filmmakers, storytellers, sponsors, and experts in media and documentaries to create new synergies for this purpose and give a voice to communities on the frontline of climate change.

What’s one thing about your field or topic you wish more people knew, considered, or acted on?

I wish more people were aware that disasters do not necessarily have to result in death and devastation for vulnerable communities. We have developed hundreds of tools, plans, frameworks, systems, and technologies that, if applied properly, could save thousands of lives (and hundreds of millions of economic damage). People are not victims of hazards; they are victims of failed disaster risk governance systems and of unequal distribution of resources, which consistently leave the most vulnerable behind. 

Where can people learn more about your work or connect with you?

Feel free to connect via Instagram @notadisaster_, LinkedIn: Giordano Margaglio, or email: [email protected].

The Parayma community is rooted in authentic, supportive relationships. 

If Giordano’s story resonates, reach out, share reflections, or co-create new possibilities together.

Thank you, Giordano, for sharing your #PieceForChange and helping us build a community committed to meaningful, regenerative change.

Stay tuned for next week’s Changeworker feature, and if you’d like to be highlighted, join the campaign and tick the box to express your interest.