Article originally appeared in Get It Jhb East – August 2018 Edition

She is a successful businesswoman, a well-known actress, dancer and casting director, an animal lover, single mom … and she is drop-dead gorgeous. We chat to the amazing 43-year-old Gabriella Cirillo.

Gabriella lives in Bedfordview with her three daughters, Isabella (11), Sofia (9) and Gina (8) and their three pets, Loki, a rescue kitten, J.A.R.V.I.S the puppy and Buddy, a dwarf hamster.

“How does she manage to keep all the balls in the air?” one wonders. “You just prioritise, keep your head down and keep moving forward,“she says. And she proved that she is indeed an excellent juggler when she recently took on another project – she was selected as an ambassador for JustOneThing365 at the beginning of May 2018.

Gabriella is an animal lover and a believer in the greater good. “JustOneThing365’s campaigns are heart-warming, generous and evoke love and kindness. Who wouldn’t want to be involved in an incentive to better the planet, a human’s life or the life of a fur kid by doing just one little thing daily?” she asks.

What is your task as a JustOneThing365 ambassador?
We use our influence as well-known individuals or celebrities to encourage people to do just one thing every day to better the planet, a person or an animal. We use our social platforms to inspire people to get involved. We donate some time, some essentials and a whole lot of love to the campaigns that are put into place. I have chosen to be the Germiston/Bedfordview SPCA’s benefactor. My girls and I go there every second weekend with blankets, food and whatever I can get my hands on to help them achieve their wish list items.

What kind of help does JustOneThing365 offer animal shelters?
They run a national blanket drive for pets in need, they are involved with animal rescue and they raise funds for shelters’ veterinary bills.

You are known for your roles in the soapies The Wild and Rhythm City. What was your most recent role?
It was Gigi, in SABC3’s Bedford Wives.

Do you prefer TV or theatre?
I was trained in theatre and I do have a deep love for the stage. There’s something about being able to evoke an emotion from a live audience.
It’s tangible, you can feel it. TV is different, yet rewarding in its own way. They are two different mediums. The beauty of both is being able to communicate a message, but on different forums.

What was the TV role that you enjoyed most?
It has to be Gigi in Bedford Wives. She was a strong, powerful woman. I love that there are more roles being created with women playing the lead. Women have stories to tell and they’re interesting, intellectual, raw, haunted and completely relatable.

Tell us about your businesses.
I have a company called Gabriella Cirillo Communications. I create websites, do online social media marketing and write copy and create content for any business wanting to market their company online. I am also a partner in an acting, casting and coaching business called Hit Your Marks Academy where we train young actors and models for the film industry.

What are the most important characteristics that women need to make themselves count and to be successful?
Trust your gut and never give up. Be your own fighter but appreciate vulnerability. Know your worth. Believe in love.

What are your goals for the future?
To grow my businesses and be the best example of a mom, loving partner and career woman as I possibly can.

What is your best beauty tip?
Moisturise, sunblock and sleep!

How do you relax?
I love reading and I love a good massage.

What is your guilty pleasure?
Sunday pyjama days with my man, Allan White, and chocolate!

What motto do you live by?
“Do good and be kind – it costs nothing.”

How can Get It’s readers help to support JustOneThing365?
Just follow #justonething365 on Facebook and Instagram. Readers can donate a blanket, a small amount of money, or even adopt a pet. Everyone can make a difference. People in the Edenvale/Bedfordview area can follow me on my social media platforms.

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