Mission - Welcome 2 Sicily ETS
Our mission
The mission of Welcome 2 Sicily ETS is to promote a welcoming, inclusive, sustainable and culturally vibrant Sicily, through projects that combine hospitality, art, education, community engagement and responsible tourism.
We believe that travel is a cultural act capable of generating dialogue, awareness and new opportunities.
For this reason, our work goes beyond accommodation: we aim to connect people, create meaningful encounters and enhance the richness of cultural diversity.
Culture and Dialogue
We promote culture as a tool for participation, growth and collective expression through:
- exhibitions by local artists and photographers;
- book presentations and talks with Sicilian authors;
- musical and performing arts events;
- cultural and social debates;
- creative workshops and community activities.
For us, culture is the heart of an active and open community.
Inclusion and Community Engagement
We collaborate with many local associations working on:
- human rights;
- social inclusion;
- cultural integration;
- youth empowerment;
- arts and education.
Our spaces are designed to be open and welcoming to everyone, without barriers or discrimination.
Responsible and Social Tourism
We promote an authentic, conscious way of travelling, one that:
- respects the environment;
- enhances local culture;
- supports the community;
- reduces waste and plastic use;
- creates interaction between visitors and residents.
Our activities include:
- the Free Pasta Experience;
- Sicilian cooking classes;
- cultural walking routes;
- environmental awareness events.
All designed to help people discover Catania in a real and meaningful way.
Education, Erasmus+ and Youth Opportunities
We collaborate with:
- Erasmus+ programmes;
- schools and vocational institutes;
- Italian and international universities;
- local associations working with young people.
Every year we welcome interns, trainees and volunteers who learn practical skills, join our activities and experience an international learning environment.
Some of them, after their training period, are now part of our staff — a concrete sign of our commitment to personal and professional growth.
Community and Relationships
Welcome 2 Sicily ETS is supported by a wonderful community of over 10,000 members every year, including::
- travelers;
- students;
- professionals;
- artists;
- citizens;
- volunteers.
Our mission is to build a place where everyone can feel part of a shared project.
Environment and Sustainability
Sustainability is a key part of our work:
- plastic-free initiatives;
- waste reduction;
- environmental education for guests and residents;
- events dedicated to responsible tourism.
We believe in a greener, more conscious and respectful Catania.
Hospitality with Social Impact
The Ostello degli Elefanti is the heart of our mission: a place where hospitality, culture, education and sustainability come together to create real, positive impact.
Our mission is to transform every experience — of travel, work, study or encounter — into a meaningful contribution to the city, the community and everyone who passes through, even just for a day.