Starting a community-focused initiative is never easy, and for Valeria Giannuzzi, the journey of founding The Magic Stock was no exception. As a chartered psychologist and researcher in social sciences with a specialisation in migration studies, Valeria saw gaps in mental health services—particularly in how they catered to culturally diverse communities. Determined to bridge this divide, she launched The Magic Stock just over a year ago, in December 2023.
“The idea is to provide mental health services at a community level in a way that is culturally sensitive, as well as multilingually and multiculturally,” Valeria explains. “It means that we wouldn't just provide mental health support in your language, but also in a way that understands all the differences that come with having a different background, a different culture, a different faith.”
Her vision stemmed from a clear need: while the NHS offers invaluable mental health services, mainstream options like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) don’t always suit everyone. “CBT is widely used,” she says, “but it doesn’t work for everyone, right? Some populations don’t access services, not because they don’t need them, but because they feel they won’t be helpful for them. So what I’m trying to do is build a connection between these communities and also offer an alternative, should this not be the right support for any reasons.”
Overcoming Challenges with the support of BEC
Launching The Magic Stock wasn’t without its obstacles. Like many social entrepreneurs, Valeria encountered practical challenges—figuring out funding, structuring the organisation, and handling operational logistics. This is where the Barking Enterprise Centre and the Building Bridges Programme came in.
“The BEC has a wealth of experience,” she shares. “They know what’s happening in Northeast London, what’s coming next, what the Boroughs are prioritising. That kind of insight is invaluable.” Beyond local knowledge, the BEC provided her with technical expertise she didn’t realise she needed.
“For example, I learnt that to access certain types of funding, you need a board of at least three directors,” Valeria recalls. “And how do you price yourself? How do you do payroll? These are things you don’t think about unless you’ve had business experience.”
Mentorship
Mentorship played a crucial role in helping Valeria navigate these hurdles. Her sessions with Karen, CEO of the BEC, became a cornerstone of her journey.
“What I really appreciate—and please make sure this is on record—is that Karen has a can-do attitude. She’s very optimistic. At times, when I've been overwhelmed and struggling to find a solution, I would reach out to her and she'd say, ‘Okay, so this can be done. Here’s how.’”
Crucially, Karen didn’t just hand Valeria the answers. “That’s what a mentor does,” Valeria reflects. “They don’t solve the problem for you, but they give you the tools and space to figure it out.”
Taking the First Step
Reflecting on her experience, Valeria wholeheartedly recommends the BEC to aspiring entrepreneurs.
“I understand that there are so many barriers to starting your own project,” she acknowledges. “For me, it was possible because I received a grant that allowed me to leave my full-time job and dedicate myself to this. But I know that for many people, financial constraints are real.”
Her advice? Start small.
“If you’re passionate about something, treat it like a passion project. If you can make time for the gym or other activities, you can dedicate a few hours a week to your project. It doesn’t have to be huge. Build, little by little, and see how it grows. If, after a while, you’re still excited about it, then getting support from the BEC can help you realise how viable it really is.”
For anyone hesitating to reach out for mentorship, she offers this final encouragement:
“You don’t have much to lose—only a dream if you don’t try. It takes time and effort, but happiness, satisfaction, and fulfilment are on the other side of fear. Just take that leap of faith. You don’t have to risk your full-time job. You just have to put in the work.”
Valeria’s journey with The Magic Stock is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the right support network. For those with a vision but unsure where to start, the BEC might just be the perfect place to begin.
