Naples, the city that gave birth to some of Italy’s tastiest delicacies, is also where the new protagonist of "UNA è femminile" works.
In the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, in the kitchen of our UNA Hotels Napoli, Gemma Mollo holds the position of Commis Chef (Assistant Cook), skillfully managing both the stoves and food preparation.
Following our interview with Caterina, the series dedicated to the female professionals within our hotel chain moves to the vibrant Neapolitan city. Read Gemma’s interview to discover her story.
Welcome Gemma! What is your role at UNA Italian Hospitality?
Hello everyone! My name is Gemma, and I have been working at UNA Italian Hospitality for a couple of years now. At the Vesuvio Roof Bar & Restaurant within UNA Hotels Napoli, I hold the role of Commis Chef. I support the Chef in food preparation and assist in the final plating of the dishes. Every day, I ensure that the workstation is in perfect order, putting utensils and ingredients back in their places to make the service as fast and smooth as possible.
What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is undoubtedly the bond created with my colleagues—not just those who work with me in the kitchen, but also colleagues from other departments in the hotel. Over time, these have become much more than simple connections... we have become a family, and I am extremely proud to be part of it! I am 23 years old and the youngest girl on the team, but I was welcomed with enthusiasm from the very beginning.
And the most difficult part?
Working in a kitchen forces me to spend many hours on my feet, and after a while, the physical and mental stress starts to take its toll. There are also certain times of the year when the workload intensifies significantly, and during those times, I would love to spend more time with my family—during the holidays, for example.
Outside of work, do you have any specific hobbies or passions?
In my free time, I love to travel and discover new destinations, cultures, and cuisines. I am a real "foodie," so I love tasting the specialties of the places I visit.
If you could describe yourself with three adjectives, what would they be?
Despite my young age, I am very determined: I know what I want and I try to achieve it at all costs. Professionally, I consider myself a curious person: I enjoy moments of exchange and enrichment with colleagues working in other hotels and regions of the Group; for me, they are a great source of inspiration. Finally, I consider myself organized: I like order, both internally and in the space around me.
If you could describe your company in three adjectives, what would they be?
Dynamic, innovative, sustainable.
What advice would you give to a young woman approaching the hospitality sector for the first time?
I would advise her to broaden her horizons: working in the hospitality sector is very demanding but rewarding, and in due time, it brings great satisfaction. Dealing with guests who come from every corner of the world is a precious opportunity, as well as an incentive to love this job even more.
In the workplace, have you ever had to face prejudices related to being a woman?
Unfortunately, the world of work is not always rosy for us women. Sometimes you may encounter prejudices. In my own small way, I have always tried to face them head-on by asserting my opinion and my skills, counting on the strength and confidence of all those people who believe in me.
There is still a long way to go to reach gender equality in Italy. In your opinion, what measures could companies adopt to guarantee equality or to meet the needs of women professionals?
Gender equality is a very delicate issue. Compared to other countries, protections for women are not lacking in Italy, but there is still a long way to go. For a woman, it is still very difficult to combine a professional career with the central role—as mother, wife, daughter—that she still holds within the family unit today. At UNA Italian Hospitality, gender equality is a protected value to which great attention has always been dedicated. As a working woman, I am very proud of this.