I recently completed my undergraduate degree in Economics and Management for Cultural Heritage at the University of Venice, and I approached the “Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs” program to connect my academic interests with practical experience. My primary goal was to learn how to develop projects that engage the local community through a “bottom-up activation” approach, using arts and culture to reshape social landscapes in both rural and urban contexts. Expedition Metropolis theater immediately resonated with me due to its alignment with these values. The theater’s commitment to community-driven projects and its use of theater as a tool for social engagement perfectly match what I aim to build in the future and my initial business idea which was about creating an open space for the local community in a rural context close to where I come from.
During my exchange, I engaged in key activities that contributed to Expedition Metropolis’ community work. Initially, I focused on observing the theater’s processes, resource management, and planning for the HofFestSpiele. My main responsibility was creating an audience development plan, connecting with local associations. By attending meetings and networking, I gained insight into the community’s values. I also participated in development workshops, board meetings, and “open training” sessions with local practitioners. During the festival, I hosted and assisted artists from Uganda and in my final weeks, I managed the festival’s archive materials and helped set up an exhibition for the Day of Open Monuments.
It was a continuous learning process, during which, thanks to my HE, Ulrich Hardt, I was able to observe and understand how projects within the theater are conceived as true works of craftsmanship.
During my exchange with Expedition Metropolis theater, I achieved significant milestones that contributed to my professional and personal growth. I played a key role in audience development for the HofFestSpiele festival, connecting with local associations and collectives, which helped me understand how community networks support cultural projects. I gained practical project management experience by coordinating teams, managing communication, and balancing cultural values with logistical challenges. I also deepened my understanding of community-building by participating in local meetings and preparing event spaces, observing how the theater fosters inclusivity and engagement. Lastly, I learned about cultural entrepreneurship, realizing it requires resilience, adaptability, and a focus on creating spaces where people feel connected. Success in this field is about more than financial goals—it’s about fostering care, connection, and inclusivity within the community.
At Expedition Metropolis, I learnt that cultural entrepreneurship is about resilience, care, and connection: it’s not just about ambition, but creating spaces where people feel valued. This kind of job requires adapting, engaging with others, and building something meaningful for the community.