Community Spotlight: Brianna Siciliano
Today we’re so excited to formally introduce someone who has become an absolute rock star within our world, our incredible community leader, Brianna Siciliano.
Brianna is such an integral part of Viva Voce. She helps shape our narrative, nurture real connection, and cultivate a space where belonging feels tangible and intentional. The care, thoughtfulness, and depth she brings to this work show up in every interaction and every conversation she holds.
It feels long overdue to spotlight her properly and invite you all to get to know the heart and mind behind so much of what makes our community feel like home.
What does size inclusivity mean to you beyond clothing, and how does it show up in the way you see the world?
Size inclusivity beyond clothing means seeing diverse sizes considered and included everywhere. Where media and in-person spaces and places consider bodies of all sizes, whether that’s by having seating options without arm rests, towels offered in multiple sizes, furniture that supports larger weights, and so on. I actively seek out forms of media with size inclusivity and diversity, and before I go anywhere new, I look up reviews and photos of spaces to get an idea of what the experience might be like for me as a tall, plus-size person.
When you think about the younger version of yourself, what would it mean for her to see a company like this exist?
When I was younger, I was constantly dieting and trying to make myself smaller. I was so insecure and embarrassed about my appearance. I felt like I didn’t fit in anywhere. If younger Brianna had stumbled upon Viva Voce and seen diverse bodies represented and celebrated, and had seen the steadfast encouragement to take up space fully as yourself, it would’ve given her hope that she was worth celebrating. That she didn’t need to try to be smaller to be enough, because she already was.
Can you share a moment in your life when you didn’t feel included, and how does that experience influence the way you show up in this work today?
I’ve never really felt included when shopping. I watch family, friends, and strangers on the internet wearing new clothes and accessories all the time. They have options basically everywhere! It wasn’t ever that simple for me. I know what it’s like to overthink and overanalyze, and spend a lot of time, energy, and money investing into finding pieces that simply fit from the teeny tiny selection of brands that offer styles for people my size. Because of that, I wanted to be involved in making others feel included in as many ways as possible.
What responsibility do you feel, working in a space that centers bodies and identities that have historically been excluded?
I’ve worked in roles that had nothing to do with this work, where I was focused on digital marketing efforts with very specific target audiences, and in those roles, I always felt like something was missing. Like I would feel so much more fulfilled if I could pair my skills with my passion for representation and inclusion. I also wondered why none of those roles really considered size-inclusivity. This work… being able to give a platform to those who have been excluded for far too long… is SO important. I care so deeply about this. Every day, I’m excited to help create more positive representations or help amplify the voices of people who have been excluded for far too long.
What does it mean to you to create spaces where people feel seen, not marketed to, not fixed, but truly seen?
I try to think of as many details as possible based on my lived experience to ensure folks feel seen. It takes a lot of energy (& often courage) to advocate for myself, and I know how overwhelming that can be at times. So, I’m intentional when creating space for people to feel seen. I hope they can use all their energy to be themselves, rather than preserving energy to act like things are okay when maybe they aren’t.
Outside of work, what lights you up or makes you feel most alive?
I LOVE going to concerts! I also love spending time in bodies of water (I’d live in a pool or an ocean if I could!), with dogs and with little kids (because they see you for who you really are), consuming media like great books, tv shows, or movies, and spending time with friends and loved ones, especially when we’re laughing. I also really enjoy the simplicity of sitting outdoors and watching the birds fly by, or watching the sunrise and sunset.
Thank you, Brianna, for being such a steady and thoughtful presence in our world. The way you lead with empathy and intention makes Viva Voce feel less like a platform and more like a home.
We’re so proud to spotlight you, and even more proud to build alongside you.