International talents brew the future of Parma at the it-ER Ambassador Lab
Over 35 participants joined forces at the International Talent Day to co-design a more inclusive and innovative city ecosystem through the "TEA & DESIGN" workshop.
PARMA – On Tuesday, March 24th, the Centro Santa Elisabetta at the University of Parma became a vibrant hub for global exchange. As part of the International Talent Day, organized by University of Parma, the it-ER program, managed by ART-ER, hosted the latest edition of its Ambassador Lab, titled "TEA & DESIGN". The event brought together international students, researchers, and knowledge workers to share their journeys and actively contribute to the city’s future.
A Day of Connection: From Business to Community
The morning kicked off with a professional focus, featuring company spotlights and a speed dating session where talents met local businesses to explore career opportunities. Key corporate players participated in these sessions, including Chiesi Group, EMERGENCY ONG ETS, Perfetti Van Melle, Sidel, and STAFF Agenzia per il Lavoro.
Following a networking lunch, the afternoon session provided a platform for regional and local entities to present their dedicated services. Key contributors included:
- University of Parma (Team Unipr4Talents & Internship Office), sharing tools for academic and professional growth.
- Municipality of Parma (InformaGiovani) and Municipality of Piacenza (Piacenza Talenti), outlining local support for newcomers.
- CIAC Onlus, providing essential bureaucratic guidance on residency permits.
- ART-ER, presenting the regional it-ER services and initiatives for internationalization.
The "TEA & DESIGN" Workshop: Co-Creating Solutions
The highlight of the afternoon was the it-ER Ambassador Lab, co-organized with Common Home APS. In a dynamic "TEA & DESIGN" setting, 35 participants - including international talents and Italian returnees - were divided into five thematic teams. Using a specially designed canvas, they mapped their "lived experiences" to propose improvements for the local ecosystem.
While sipping international teas, the teams tackled five macro-topics inspired by the Easy Parma platform:
- Public Services & Administration: Proposed a Clear Information Kit and AI-powered facilitation (like Google Translate) in public offices to bridge language barriers.
- Education & Training: Focused on the need for mandatory lab practice each semester and industrial visits to better connect students with the local economy.
- Cultural & Social Life: Suggested bilingual social platforms and "Happy Street Events" (food, music, and dance) to help internationals connect with locals.
- Mobility: Advocated for the transition from physical bus cards to digital, AI-translated "E-cards" for easier navigation.
- Housing: Recommended that the University act as a guarantor for rental contracts and proposed a national "Housing Day" to improve student accommodations.
Building the Regional Community
The Lab concluded with a plenary discussion where each team presented their vision for a more accessible Parma. This collective mapping not only highlighted existing challenges but also fostered a shared sense of belonging among the regional community.
The ideas emerged during this session will serve as a valuable compass for it-ER and local stakeholders to continue developing services that truly meet the needs of those choosing Emilia-Romagna as their home
