Sicilian Startupper Eyes Palermo’s AI Future After Witnessing TikTok‘s Rise in Shanghai
PALERMO, ITALY - A Sicilian entrepreneur who witnessed the early days of TikTok in Shanghai is now advocating for Palermo to become a hub for artificial intelligence and startups, bringing a unique global perspective back to his hometown. The founder, who recently spent time in Malaysia reflecting on global tech trends, believes a shift in mentality – embracing innovation rather then fearing it – is key to unlocking Palermo’s potential.
The entrepreneur, Tomasello, observed a markedly different reception to cutting-edge technologies like AI and cloning in Asia compared to what he anticipates in Italy. While some envision AI as a tool for efficient governance, others fear a dystopian outcome. Tomasello’s experience suggests a proactive, open-minded approach is crucial for success. He intends to leverage his international experience to build “something important” in Palermo, emphasizing that the opportunity lies not just in the technology itself, but in fostering a culture receptive to new ideas.
“If I talk about AI and clones here I don’t encounter fear or doubts, but a desire to do new things,” Tomasello noted, highlighting the positive environment he found abroad. He believes gaining further experience internationally will be invaluable before returning to contribute to Palermo’s growth,envisioning a future where the city actively champions AI advancement and startup innovation.
