Mario has lived in Croydon all his life. He was born in Mayday Hospital and went to nursery at Tollgate in Shirley; attended St Thomas Becket Primary in South Norwood; checked his first books out of Ashburton Library and learnt to ride his bike in Bingham Park.

His first job was in the town centre; first flat just off the historic Surrey Street Market and this year, with his fiancée Amy, moved into their first home together in Park Hill.

Both Mario's parents are Italian - with his dad coming to the UK on his own when he was just 16 years old. His mum is a Teaching Assistant in a local primary school. His fiancée is also teacher in Croydon. Mario has been entirely comprehensively educated in Croydon schools and, with a strong work ethic, is proud to have become the first member of his family to go to university.

For approaching 10 years Mario has been a committed community activist in Croydon, campaigning across the borough as a volunteer and since 2014 as an elected local councillor.

Mario has worked at the University of Surrey, in Parliament, for global brand Heineken, and now supports Prime Minister Theresa May as a Special Adviser in 10 Downing Street.

Mario's belief in Croydon’s potential runs deep. It’s not just a constituency, it’s his home. He truly believes that it's only when our community comes together that we can tackle the complex issues facing our town - to create an environment that promotes aspiration and helps our community thrive. That's why he's running to be your next Member of Parliament: to work with you all to help Croydon be the best it can be.