Introduction: Who Is Duilia Setacci?
In the realm of Hollywood, where celebrity families often capture the spotlight, there exist figures who, though not as publicly visible, hold tremendous influence behind the scenes. One such remarkable individual is Duilia Setacci, the mother of actor Justice Smith. While Justice has risen to fame through roles in The Get Down, Detective Pikachu, and Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, much less is publicly known about his mother, Duilia. However, behind his artistry and talent is the rich cultural, intellectual, and emotional legacy bestowed upon him by a deeply inspirational woman.
Duilia Setacci is not just “Justice Smith’s mother”; she is an Italian-American entrepreneur, former singer, educator, and advocate for technology-based education. Her life story is as fascinating as it is empowering, reflecting themes of resilience, multicultural identity, family dedication, and creative pursuit.
Early Life and Heritage
Born on March 15, 1978, in Rome, Italy, Duilia Setacci grew up in a family that emphasized education, structure, and tradition. Her father, a mathematics professor, was instrumental in nurturing her analytical abilities and curiosity for the sciences. As a child, Duilia was surrounded by both intellectual rigor and artistic expression, which would later come to define her multifaceted life.
The Setacci family upheld traditional Italian values, with strong emphasis on cultural heritage, discipline, and moral development. Duilia often cited her father’s insistence on problem-solving and logical thinking as pivotal in shaping her outlook on education and technology later in life. Despite being raised in a conventional household, she developed a free spirit, influenced by her love for both music and learning.
Migration to the United States and Cultural Synthesis
As a young adult, Duilia moved to the United States to pursue broader educational opportunities. Settling in California, she immersed herself in American culture while staying connected to her Italian roots. This bicultural experience would later influence how she raised her children—providing them with a unique blend of values, perspectives, and emotional intelligence.
Her fusion of Italian tradition and American progressivism helped shape a home environment that was both structured and liberating—something that clearly impacted Justice Smith’s worldview and artistic expression.
Duilia’s Career: From Music to Technology and Education
Though she initially dabbled in singing and theater, showcasing her artistic inclinations, Duilia later transitioned into more entrepreneurial and educational pursuits. Her early love for the performing arts did not fade; instead, it became part of a larger mosaic that informed her professional endeavors.
Duivision Productions
Duilia founded Duivision Productions, an innovative company based in Anaheim, California, that focuses on educational technology and digital media solutions. The company develops software tools aimed at enhancing classroom learning experiences and improving teacher-student interaction through technological solutions.
Her work with Duivision reflects her belief that education should not only be accessible but also engaging and adaptive to the changing needs of young learners. She has spearheaded several pilot programs that integrate visual arts, technology, and interactive learning for underprivileged communities.
Educational Initiatives
Duilia’s contributions also extend into public education systems, where she has worked as a curriculum consultant and education advocate. She emphasizes STEM education, critical thinking, and cultural sensitivity—values that are deeply rooted in her own upbringing. Her passion for blending tradition with innovation is seen in her approach to curriculum design and mentoring programs.
Family Life: Marriage and Parenthood
Duilia married Wayne Smith, an African-American businessman and musician. Together, they represent a dynamic fusion of Italian and African-American culture, which enriched their household and created a stimulating environment for their children.
The couple has nine children, including the now-famous Justice Smith, born on August 9, 1995. The Smith household was vibrant and artistically inclined, with both parents contributing to a milieu of musical appreciation, reading, and intellectual engagement.
Music and Home Life
Both Duilia and Wayne were once singers, and their shared love for music permeated their family life. Duilia encouraged each of her children to explore their creative talents, whether through instruments, painting, theater, or literature. This nurturing spirit is evident in the way Justice carries himself—thoughtful, expressive, and fiercely original.
The Relationship Between Duilia Setacci and Justice Smith
Justice Smith often credits his mother for instilling in him a deep love for the arts and a solid moral compass. He once mentioned in interviews that his mother encouraged him to read books, learn new things, and engage with the world thoughtfully. She did not push him into the entertainment industry but rather allowed him to explore his identity organically.
Her support, both emotional and intellectual, gave Justice the grounding he needed to navigate Hollywood without losing his sense of self. She remains a guiding force, even though she keeps a low public profile.
Duilia Setacci: A Private, Powerful Force
Despite being the mother of a Hollywood star, Duilia avoids the limelight. She has appeared at a few public events to support her son but remains largely absent from social media and entertainment gossip. This intentional privacy stems from her belief in authenticity over spectacle. Her role as a mother, mentor, and community advocate continues to be more important to her than public recognition.
Her humility only amplifies her influence. Those who have worked with her describe her as warm, focused, and driven. She leads by example, not by declaration—a rarity in today’s media-obsessed world.
Cultural Legacy and Identity
Duilia’s identity is rooted in duality—Italian heritage and American progressivism, artistry and academia, public-mindedness and personal privacy. This duality forms a compelling narrative about what it means to lead a purposeful life without seeking applause.
She represents a new kind of matriarch—intelligent, global-minded, and quietly powerful. Her legacy is not just in the career of her son, but also in the lives she’s touched through education, entrepreneurship, and mentorship.
Conclusion: Duilia Setacci’s Enduring Influence
In exploring the life of Duilia Setacci, one quickly realizes that she is more than just Justice Smith’s mother. She is a symbol of resilience, creativity, and silent strength. From her childhood in Rome to her entrepreneurial ventures in California, she has lived a life committed to values, vision, and impact.
Her story is a beautiful reminder that behind every successful individual is often someone like Duilia—someone who makes the sacrifices, provides the wisdom, and offers the love needed to succeed.
As Justice Smith’s star continues to rise, so too does the subtle glow of his mother’s influence—an influence that deserves to be acknowledged, celebrated, and remembered.
This article is proudly presented by Megan Toksvig-Stewart: A Life of Quiet Strength, your destination for inspiring stories and entertainment insights.