My crutches don’t slow my ambition
"Living with a disability requires you to be constantly adaptable and creative in navigating the world."
Paulo Faustino (He/Him)
Customer Support Associate
Tell us more about your career journey
I describe myself as a result-driven professional with a “Commander” (ENTJ-A) personality: bold, imaginative, and strong-willed. My career didn't start in fintech; I worked for several years in the high-pressure world of banking as a High Income Relationship Manager and Team Lead, and later in IT and Customer Services. When I joined Wise in June 2024, I knew I had found something different—not just a job, but a revolution.
I have been using crutches to get around since 2017, when I had an inflammatory process called Myelitis and it resulted in this permanent condition. I am currently a Law student and a member of the Disability Rights Committee at the OAB (Brazilian Bar Association), fighting for inclusion beyond the workplace.
At Wise, I found myself resonating with the Wise value ‘No Drama, Good Karma’. This is something I always brought with me: not focusing on difficulties or barriers and my belief that maintaining a positive behavior leads to good (and magnificent!) consequences. Here at Wise, my disability isn't a topic of limitation; it's just a detail in a larger picture of ambition, and an unstoppable effort to orchestrate the best experience for our customers.
What does International Day of Persons with Disabilities mean to you?
For me, this day shifts the focus from ’disability’ to ’capability’. It’s a reminder that resilience is a superpower. Living with a disability requires you to be constantly adaptable and creative in navigating the world—skills that are incredibly valuable in a professional setting.
This day affirms that people don’t need fixing; we need equity and opportunity. It’s about showing that a person can walk on crutches and still drive a high-performing team, lead complex projects, and aim high. It is a celebration of the fact that while I may move differently, my direction is the same as every other ambitious Wiser: forward and upward.
What has been your proudest moment at Wise?
My proudest moment connects directly to my career aspiration since day one: becoming a Customer Support Team Lead. Driven by my eagerness to learn and grow, I didn't wait for a title to start leading. I developed a side project, aimed at elevating service accuracy and fostering collaboration within the team.
I was incredibly proud when I was invited by my Team Lead to guide a team meeting, presenting this project and training my colleagues. Seeing the team engage, seeing the sparkle moments in their eyes when sharing their own expertise, and receiving really positive feedback from the session confirmed that I was on the right path. These moments demonstrate that Wise supports my hunger for growth, regardless of my physical circumstances.
How can Allies within the workplace best support our Neurodiversity and Disability community?
Treat people with disabilities with the same expectations you would anyone else.
Allies can support us by removing physical, digital and mental barriers. If you see someone with a disability, don't ask what they can't do; ask what motivates them and where they want to go.
Finally, I want to highlight the importance of sharing your story. Real support requires real data. This ensures workplaces provide the necessary support to cover specific needs. For example, by sharing details on individual characteristics like disabilities, we equip the company with the insights needed to move from good intention to tailored action.
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