My Erasmus Journey with Siciliamia as Trainee
Text by: Farheen E Sehar
When I first heard about Siciliamia through the Erasmus Blended Internship Programme, I knew it was going to be an exciting opportunity. Starting my traineeship remotely on October 28th was just the beginning. The real adventure unfolded during my mobility period in Sicily, from November 25th onwards until December 19th. But the story didn’t end there. I continue to work with Siciliamia remotely, building on everything I experienced during my time onsite.
Moving from Finland, northern Europe to the southern charm of Sicily was not as easy as it sounds. However, thanks to the swift support from my university’s Erasmus office and Siciliamia’s guidance, I quickly found myself stepping into a world of possibilities as they processed my application in such a short time. With offices in Ragusa and Donnalucata, Siciliamia operates across stunning locations like Boncampello, Ibla Valley, and Pachino. They also manage Bluehouse B&B, a charming property in Reykjavik, Iceland, known for its incredible views of the Northern Lights in Reykjavik.
When I arrived in Sicily, I became part of a vibrant team of over 50 interns working both remotely and onsite. Our onsite team included individuals from diverse countries such as France, Malaysia, Norway, Lithuania, Slovakia, Jordan, and Egypt. Despite our different backgrounds, we came together seamlessly, sharing ideas and contributing to ongoing projects. I was assigned to work at Bluehouse B&B, focusing on competitor analysis and creating marketing strategies that reflected the needs of both the business and its customers. The holiday season brought its own set of challenges, but it was also the perfect opportunity to observe the dynamic nature of the hospitality industry.
Working onsite added a layer of depth to my experience. From the moment I arrived, the Siciliamia team ensured I had all the information I needed, from transportation tips to local connections. Beyond office hours, the experience was filled with moments that made me feel part of something special. We celebrated my birthday with a surprise gathering at the Ibla Valley, explored the breathtaking Donnafugata Castle, and shared countless cups of Sicilian coffee with cornettos. The interns all stayed in the same house, where evenings were spent cooking, sharing stories, and experiencing each other’s cultures.
One of the highlights was working closely with Siciliamia’s CEO, Zeno, who leads the company with an open mind and a knack for empowering interns. I appreciated how much freedom we were given to experiment with ideas while staying aligned with the brand’s vision. For example, while my initial content calendar didn’t fully meet the brand guidelines, the feedback process allowed me to refine my work and deliver something more impactful.
Although my mobility period in Sicily ended, my collaboration with Siciliamia continues. I’m still working on refining the marketing strategies for Bluehouse B&B, contributing remotely while staying connected with the global team.
The mobility experience taught me three key lessons. First, working with a multicultural team showed me the power of diverse perspectives in problem-solving and creativity. Second, I learned that the hospitality and tourism industry, especially during peak seasons, offers not just professional growth but also the joy of connecting with people from all walks of life. Finally, I came to admire how a business run largely by interns could thrive, thanks to an environment that values collaboration and independent thinking.
As I continue my work with Siciliamia, I carry the memories of my time in Sicily with me. This Erasmus traineeship has been about more than just professional experience. It is about building connections, exploring cultures, and learning in ways I never imagined. Sicily’s charm, its kind people, and the lessons I’ve learned will always be a cornerstone of my journey.
By Farheen E Sehar, who is a student in Master’s Degree Programme in Digital Marketing and Analytics