FOUNDER FEATURE
Grief, Heritage & Reclaiming Purpose
A chapter that reshaped Bedda Vita and a journey Josephine continues to navigate.
After a challenging period in 2024, balancing full-time study, full-time work, and the loss of her beloved Nonno during her birthday month, our founder Josephine experienced a profound period of grief.
This loss deeply impacted her mental health, studies, work, and creativity, and remains a journey she continues to navigate through till today.
“Her grandparents were not only her family - they were her foundation.”
Grief shaped this chapter of her life in ways she could not have anticipated, influencing her passion for connection, design, and creativity. Throughout this time, Josephine remained honest with herself and her community, openly sharing the realities of grief, particularly after losing someone she loved so deeply.
At just 21 years old, having grown up closely with her grandparents and spending much of her life living alongside them, the loss of her Nonno had a profound impact. Her grandparents were not only her family, but her foundation.
A healing journey — Italy
As part of her healing journey, Josephine followed a long-held dream and at the end of her Europe trip, she spontaneously travelled to her Nonno’s hometown in Italy for a few days. Which she found amazing as she got to reconnect with her Nonno's sisters and family.
EDITORIAL NOTE
From the music and familiar names to the dancing and Italian food, everything felt connected to him. Being there offered a deep sense of comfort and became an important step in her healing.
Through this experience, Josephine reconnected with her purpose and rediscovered what Bedda Vita truly represents. This renewed clarity led to a meaningful milestone when she was invited to hold a stall at the first Mornington Peninsula Italian Festa at the end of 2025, marking an important step forward in both her personal and creative journey.
For Nonno. For our roots. For la dolce vita.
Good to know
Why share this story?
Because Bedda Vita has always been about mental wellness, honesty, and connection, not perfection. This chapter helped shape the meaning behind the brand.
Is grief something you “get over”?
Not really. It changes shape over time. This story is about learning to live with it, while still moving forward with purpose.
How did Italy help?
Even though visiting his hometown was spontaneous, it brought comfort through familiarity, names, music, food, and culture and offered a deeper sense of closeness to Nonno’s memory.
How can I help a friend who is grieving?
This is something that many people ask or ask themselves when they experience a friend, colleague, family member who is grieving and doesn't know how to help. Sometimes the best way to find out is to ask the person how you can help them and if they aren't sure... give space, time and check ins, these will go a long way.
2 comments
My dad is so proud of you. I know he’s watching over you and guiding you every step of the way..
I remember when this photo was taken, it’s like it was yesterday. Miss you dad x
Love from your loudest cheerleader
Mum
So proud of my big sister!!