Born in Naples, she studied and practiced law in Rome, where she also served as Vice President of the Italian branch of the European Law Students Association. Before arriving in San Diego, Livia worked as an instructor of Italian language at Fayetteville (NC) Community College and as Director of Development for United Way in Colorado Springs. She now works as a freelance teacher and interpreter and also collaborates with several nonprofits. She dedicates her free time to hobbies such as art, reading, traveling, and volunteering.