My name is Elisa, I am 28 years old, and my academic and professional journey is rooted in the fields of economics, rural development and tourism. I hold a degree in economics and have specialized in cost-benefit analysis and impact evaluations, particularly within agricultural and tourism-related projects. Over the years, I have worked as a project manager for European initiatives focused on eco-tourism, rural sustainability and cultural preservation. I manage a tourist apartment in Tuscany, where I promote slow tourism. I’m passionate about sustainable agriculture and local food systems. Currently, I’m studying Spanish, inspired by my interest in Latin American culture.
I decided to participate in the EYE program because I aspire to become more independent and exchange knowledge with other entrepreneurs. My goal was to collaborate with someone experienced in rural development and I was fortunate to find Natalia, an incredible entrepreneur in this field. Here in Tenerife, I am fully immersed in the local culture, speaking Spanish daily with the woman I live with, the colleague I work with and her family. This environment aligns perfectly with my goal of supporting communities that resist mass tourism, a cause I deeply care about and advocate for in Italy and through my lifestyle. I also wanted to challenge myself by learning Spanish, despite already knowing Italian, English, and French, to integrate as much as possible and connect with locals of all ages, listening to their stories and understanding their realities.
This experience is already proving to be incredibly enriching, both on a human and professional level. Working alongside Natalia at Ecoalpispa has given me a deeper appreciation for the challenges that rural communities face, such as the huge problemm of water scarcity and the impacts of climate change. Engaging directly with local people, participating in cultural traditions and collaborating with grassroots activists has taught me the value of resilience and the importance of collective action. From a professional point of view this experience is providing me with hands-on knowledge about sustainable farming practices, environmental education and the daily realities of running a socially and environmentally conscious enterprise. I have also gained practical experience in project development, particularly in creating initiatives that educate children and local communities about environmental challenges.
Additionally, I am having the privilege of learning the art of beekeeping, a fascinating job that connects me deeply with nature and highlights the crucial role bees play in our ecosystems. Supporting Natalia in her organic farming practices cultivating her garden has been incredible and we are planning to involve volunteers in the near future. The mentorship provided by Natalia is amazing… invaluable. Her expertise and leadership have inspired me to think creatively and strategically about how I can apply these lessons in my future projects. I definitely feel more confident in my ability to design impactful initiatives and to support local communities in preserving their traditions while adapting to contemporary challenges!
