My name is Ana-Maria Xenia Gilca, I am a 26-year-old Romanian citizen from Draguseni, Suceava County. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in English and German Language and Literature from “Ștefan cel Mare” University of Suceava, where I also completed a Psychopedagogical Training Certificate. During my studies, I discovered how language, culture, and creativity intertwine to shape people’s identities and influence communities.
I have always nurtured a passion for entrepreneurship, architecture, and sustainable development, which has gradually taken shape in a concrete project, Xenia Building, a multifunctional center for sustainable living and co-creation. Xenia Building was born from my desire to merge creativity, education, and environmental responsibility. Inspired by the Greek concept of “xenia”, hospitality and collaboration, the project aims to develop a complex of modular, eco-friendly buildings that serve as both workspaces and living environments.
My decision to participate in the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) program arises from a combination of curiosity, personal ambition, and the desire to broaden my entrepreneurial vision.
I am deeply motivated by the prospect of working abroad, as I believe that immersing myself in a different professional and cultural context will enhance my ability to adapt, cooperate, and innovate. I am particularly interested in learning about sustainable architectural practices, green business models, and European funding mechanisms for young entrepreneurs. These are essential aspects for the future implementation of my Xenia Building project. I expect this experience to have a profound impact on both my human and professional development.
On a personal level, living and working in a different country will strengthen my sense of independence, resilience, and intercultural empathy. It will push me to step out of my comfort zone, face challenges, and grow as a confident, responsible individual. Professionally, it will allow me to acquire managerial, financial, and marketing skills that are indispensable for turning a visionary idea into a concrete, sustainable enterprise.
Through direct mentorship and exchange with a host entrepreneur, I aim to learn how to structure business operations, manage resources efficiently, and build a brand that aligns with ecological and ethical principles. I also expect to gain insights into project management, digital marketing, and cross-sector collaboration, areas that will enable me to strengthen my project’s long-term sustainability. Ultimately, my goal is to return to Romania with the tools, knowledge, and international connections necessary to transform Xenia Building into a model of green entrepreneurship capable of contributing to local economic development and social inclusion.
During my first 15 days abroad for the EYE program, I focused on adapting and integrating into the host entrepreneur’s environment. In the first week, I familiarized myself with the company’s structure, daily operations, and sustainability practices, while actively participating in team meetings and observing ongoing projects. Together with my mentor, I set clear learning goals and discussed expectations for the following months. In the second week, I began contributing to small tasks related to marketing, communication, and project planning, applying my language and digital skills. At the same time, I explored the local culture and business ecosystem, gaining valuable insights into market dynamics. This initial phase laid a solid foundation for an effective and productive collaboration throughout the rest of the program.
