Eloiza's story

This article was originally published on Innovation Foundation. Click here

When Eloiza Fernandes Giraldi moved from Brazil to Barcelona in early 2022, she brought with her a lifetime of experience: a degree in Physical Education, more than a decade of work as a doula, and a deep passion for supporting women through childbirth and recovery.

But in her new country, none of that seemed to matter.

Her qualifications weren’t recognized in Spain, the language barrier felt overwhelming, and cultural differences made restarting her career incredibly difficult. “I couldn’t express myself the same way I could in my native language,” she says. “It felt like all the skills I had didn’t matter anymore.”

Eloiza found herself offering massage therapy to get by, while caring for her three youngest children. She was eager to work - but had no clear way forward.

Bridging the gap with Para Ti

That changed when she discovered Para Ti, a digital tool created by the Innovation Foundation, the global foundation of the Adecco Group, to help women like Eloiza return to work with confidence.

The Innovation Foundation plays a unique role in advancing the Group’s mission of making the future work for everyone, focusing in particular on those too often unheard, unseen, and left out of opportunity. Through inclusive, human-centred projects, the Foundation shines a light on overlooked talent, to ensure no one is excluded from the evolving world of work.

Para Ti, built in partnership with TaTiO, is a virtual job simulation platform designed to help mid-career women - particularly those out of work for over a year - identify their transferable skills and connect with employers based on what they can do, not just what’s on their CV.

For Eloiza, it was exactly the bridge she needed.

“When I got involved with the Innovation Foundation’s project, I felt like someone was finally thinking about women like me - women who’ve given so much to others, but whose contributions often go unseen,” she says.

“It felt like a light turned on. My self-esteem came back.”

Rediscovering skills and regaining confidence

Through the platform’s simulations, Eloiza saw her existing strengths in a new light. She realized how valuable her communication skills were – especially her ability to switch easily between Portuguese, Spanish, and English. These were abilities she had taken for granted, but which employers were actively seeking.

She also let go of a long-standing hesitation toward technology.

“Honestly, I used to have some prejudice against AI,” she admits. “But after using the platform, I changed my mind. It opened up a new world for me.”

A fresh start and a brighter future

Soon after completing the program, Eloiza landed a role as a Guest Experience Expert at Le Méridien, a leading hotel in Barcelona. Since July, she’s been handling calls, emails, and chats, ensuring guests feel welcomed and cared for.

“What I love most about my job is managing guest requests and making sure everything works smoothly,” she says. “It’s incredibly satisfying. I’ve even started learning about hotel auditing, which could lead to new opportunities in the future.”

The job didn’t just bring her financial stability. It reshaped her family life and helped her rebuild her sense of self.

“We’re all adjusting to the fact that I’m not at home full-time anymore,” she shares. “But it’s a positive change. My children are learning to help out, and my husband and I are sharing responsibilities in new ways. Plus, my salary allows us to enjoy our time together more.”

Best of all, she’s been reminded of her value.

“After receiving great feedback from guests and my supervisor, I finally felt important again - like I truly belong to a team.”

The power of inclusive innovation

Stories like Eloiza’s are at the heart of the Innovation Foundation’s mission: to unlock potential where others may not think to look. Women Back to Work is just one example of how inclusive innovation can transform lives.

“I hope this project reaches many other women,” says Eloiza.

“It helped me start a new chapter. I know it can do the same for others.”

Learn more about the Innovation Foundation and the Women Back to Work project