When Training Creates Opportunities: Elena and Teresa Hired as Lacemakers

When training creates real opportunities, the results speak for themselves.

We are delighted to share a piece of news that perfectly reflects the purpose of our work at The Place of Wonders Foundation.

Elena Volpato and Teresa Rossetto, recipients of scholarships funded by the Foundation for the Advanced Training Course in the Art of Burano Lace at the atelier of Martina Vidal Venezia, have been hired as professional lacemakers upon completing their training.

This achievement demonstrates that investing in the transmission of traditional craftsmanship is not only about preserving heritage—it is also about creating meaningful career opportunities for younger generations.

Elena’s words capture the value of this journey better than any statistic could:
"I am truly happy and excited about this new beginning. For me, it is a dream come true. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity and the trust that allowed me to embark on this beautiful path."

At a time when generational renewal remains one of the greatest challenges facing the craft sector, seeing young talents transform a scholarship into employment is one of the most encouraging outcomes we could hope for.

For us, supporting education means more than safeguarding traditional skills. It means helping build the future of Italian craftsmanship by creating the conditions for talent, passion, and expertise to become a profession. We want young people to see these trades not as a second choice, but as a meaningful career path—one capable of offering personal fulfilment, professional growth, and real employment opportunities.

Congratulations to Elena and Teresa on this important milestone. And our heartfelt thanks to Martina Vidal and her atelier, whose willingness to invest time, patience, and expertise in the next generation is what makes stories like this possible.

"The future of craftsmanship depends not only on those who are eager to learn, but also on those generous enough to teach."