MONEY ISSUE 67

BUSINESS

|

LIFEST YLE

|

DESIGN

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N I S S U E 67

COVER STORY

20 10

DINO FINO

What’s in store?

HON. MIRIAM DALLI

Malta’s exponential growth

MARK CAMILLERI

Rebel with a cause

A L EKS FA RRUGI A & JON M A L L I A

Malta’s soft power potentials

32 38

WELCOME

Editor’s letter — October tends to be a relatively consistent month – we know what to expect; the

COVER

evenings start getting chilly, the academic year starts all over again, and it’s time for the Budget.

Dino Fino

However, this year, October is leaving us all with a sense of anticipation and uncertainty as

Read the full story on P.20

rumours of a general election abound. Will we be voting next month, or will we be left guessing for a while longer? What’s certain is that electoral campaigns are in full swing, with billboards sprouting all over the island, trying to sway our thoughts and opinions. Do we want to be the change or remain with what we’ve become used to?

If we had to listen to Mark Camilleri, former Chairman of the National Book Council, he would advise us to vote for a third party or an independent candidate and give the two main parties a wide berth. But, instead, in his in-depth interview, he explains all about the motivation and reasoning that led him to write his just-released book, ‘A RentSeeker’s Paradise’.

Of course, not everything revolves around politics. Since this issue focuses on design, arts, and creativity, we wanted to give space and recognition to those artists and entrepreneurs who add beauty, entertainment, and inventiveness to our lives.

E D I T O R Anthony P. Bernard

Our cover story, household name Dino Fino, tells us about the expansion of the Dino Fino brand as they move into offering showroom space in

[anthony@moneymag.me]

and the launch of the Dino Fino Finance

p.l.c. Bond. We also hear from Minister Miriam Dalli about the Expo 2020 Dubai, where Malta is

D E S I G N BloomCreative

exhibiting to form collaborations with other countries that have the same aspirations and drive.

[bloomcreative.com.mt]

The Malta Pavilion is strategically located in the Opportunity District, close to the UAE pavilion, with the theme focusing on ‘Connecting Cultures, Generating Opportunities’.

P R I N T I N G Print It

However, the arts and theatre industry is still in limbo on the local scene as the government

D I S T R I B U T I O N JD Distributors

makes erratic decisions based on who can open and who cannot. Does it seem that sitting and eating is safer than sitting and watching a play – based on what scientific evidence, you ask?

Who knows?

MONEY is hand-delivered to businesses in Malta,

This is precisely what Edward Mercieca, chairperson of the theatre advisory committee at MEIA, is asking. A video of him taken earlier this year went viral on social media when he spoke vociferously about the effects of the government’s decisions about COVID-

and the theatre

including all managers and directors of the TOP 300 companies; iGaming, yachting and boating businesses, marinas, all 5-star hotels and boutique guesthouses including their business centres, executive lounges

and arts industry. He explains the situation further, pointing out that the creative sector was

and rooms (where allowed), embassies and Maltese

already struggling even before the pandemic hit, so their experience was incredibly bleak.

embassies abroad (UK, Rome, Brussels and Moscow);

Despite the strain that everyone has gone through due to COVID-

For information regarding promotion and advertising:

– and is still going through

because there are repercussions – we still try to find the positive moments that can give us

all government ministries and entities.

(+356) 2134 2155 · [hello@moneymag.me]

some hope and inspiration. Such as the ACS College in Malta offering opportunities for future designers through its BA in Product Design. These programmes are much needed for those students who are not drawn to the traditional academic subjects but whose talents lie in creativity. We also speak to local curator and artist Claude Camilleri as he delves into the brandnew world of NFTs and tells us about his character, Miloman.

Money is published by Be Communications Ltd,

Deborah Schembri takes us into the world of female CEOs – where the title still requires a gender

No. 81, Howard Street, Sliema, Malta SLM 1754

! " · [becommunications.com]

prefix to give it weighting and shatter the proverbial glass ceiling. However, the aftermath of COVID-

has also changed the working world, with the influx of ‘work from home’ options

becoming the norm and many entrepreneurs taking the plunge to set up their own business when they found themselves out of a job. So, perhaps we need to realise and appreciate the silver lining that the pandemic has presented us and continue to live our lives with a sense

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Opinions expressed in Money are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. All reasonable care is taken to ensure truth and accuracy, but the editor

of wellbeing for ourselves and our community as we understand the importance of

and publishers cannot be held responsible for errors

being adaptable to change and accountable for our actions

or omissions in articles, advertising, photographs or illustrations. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome

and decisions.

but cannot be returned without a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The editor is not responsible for

Have a lovely autumn season, and see you in the next issue.

04

material submitted for consideration.

I S S U E 67

MONEY

Banking | Custody | Investments Banking | Custody | Investments

Investment services are what we do.

Our goal is to support you in managing your wealth and in protecting your legacy.

At Sparkasse we have a team of professional financial advisors willing and competent to assist you with your investment needs.

Our suite of services are geared to support you with your banking and investment requirements allowing you access to the world markets and your deposits through one relationship.

Banking ! Investments - a personalised service through one relationship.

Speak to an advisor today.

T: !"#$%&'%""#%()# E: PrivateBanking@sparkasse-bank-malta.com Sparkasse Bank Malta plc, 101 Townsquare, Ix-Xatt ta’ Qui-si-Sana, Sliema SLM3112, Malta.

Sparkasse Bank Malta plc is a public limited liability company registered in Malta with registration number C27152 and registered office at 101 Townsquare, Ix-Xatt ta’ Qui-si-Sana, Sliema SLM3112, Malta. Sparkasse Bank Malta plc is licensed by the Malta Financial Services Authority to carry out the business of banking in terms of the Banking Act (Cap. 371 of the Laws of Malta), and to provide investment services and custody and depositary services in terms of the Investment Services Act (Cap. 370 of the Laws of Malta).

CONTENTS

08

20

32

The show must go on

What’s in store?

Rebel with a cause

In an exclusive interview, Edward Mercieca opens to Dayna Camilleri Clarke about his COVID-19 experience and charting the way forward from here.

10 Malta’s exponential growth The Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Sustainable Development, Hon. Miriam Dalli explains to Giselle Borg Olivier that Malta is taking full advantage of the long-awaited Dubai Expo 2020 by actively seeking collaborative opportunities with countries that share a complementary vision.

14 There’s something new in town

COVER STORY

Duncan Barry speaks to Dino Fino – the man behind an ever-famous and sturdy furniture brand – on the ongoing marketing campaigns, whether he has witnessed a change in the way customers purchase furniture and his firm’s plans for the future.

22

38 Malta’s soft power potentials

Pop master in the making Duncan Barry speaks to Claude Camilleri: a pop artist who has injected colour into the pop art scene under the brand Miloman.

26 Sustainable creativity The designers behind the leather brand The Fold – Suzi and Tina Mifsud – and multidisciplinary artist Laura Besancon, the name behind The Vintage Collection, joined forces to create a veritable tour de force sustainable fashion. Veronica Stivala unfolds the story.

The ACS College in Malta is launching the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Product Design to prepare the next generation of talents and boost the island’s creative spin. Federica Tadiello spoke to course lecturers and top-notch Italian designers and creative thinkers Stefano Ollino and Tobia Repossi.

06

Former National Book Council chairman, Mark Camilleri, speaks with Giselle Borg Olivier about his soon-to-bereleased exposé on the Labour Party and the secrets behind this political powerhouse.

Ray de Bono speaks to the former editor of the leading Maltese language Sunday newspaper, It-Torċa, branding expert, historian and renowned author Aleks Farrugia. He also met with firebrand Jon Mallia, a talk show host and thinker who brings an original mix of theatre, social commentary and public debate in a language that is fresh, sometimes shocking, but always to the point.

The questions circle around the need to improve our cultural biosphere as part of Malta’s overall Soft Power credentials.

46 It’s all orange Over the past few years, the cultural sector was living through a revival phase. Buoyed by the increased tourism flows, performances, cultural events, and music shows and events became a tourism niche.

Then the pandemic hit, and the tourism sector and cultural sector came crashing to a grinding halt.

JP Fabri explains.

I S S U E 67

MONEY

CONTENTS

48 Seeding a greener world Looking back, we have given minimal weight or ignored how important the global environment is and how it can ultimately affect our wellbeing. Air pollution is undoubtedly one of the many focal points globally, with many projects being funded through favourable schemes by the private sector, while governments themselves are heavily investing in projects linked to achieving the environmental sustainability proposition. Jordan Portelli explains.

50 Creatives, designers, artists: this is a call to arms We have often been told to choose our battles wisely. Many times, this means walking away from a battle that matters. Choose this battle and choose it wisely because you and your industry have been taking the blows for too long. Edward Muscat Azzopardi asks.

Dayna is a senior speech therapist

and independent writer and proofreader.

When she’s not busy fixing words, she

She runs Content for Success.

is travelling the world and adding to her

E X P O P.10 | B O O K S P.32

fridge magnet collection.

A R T S P.08 | D E S I G N P.52

Changing spaces It’s a new buzzing place on everyone’s lips; the Valletta Design Cluster (VDC) within the Valletta Cultural Agency — a legacy project of Valletta 2018, European Capital of Culture — is a community space for cultural and creative practice. Dayna Camilleri Clarke speaks to Caldon Mercieca, VDC manager.

MONEY

Jordan is an economist and CIO / portfolio manager for a local financial

Duncan has over two decades of experience in feature writing and

services company.

G R E E N B O N D S P.48

journalism. He is also a freelance writer. In 2012, he was the national winner of the EU

52

Giselle is a marketing professional,

by day and feature writer by night.

JP is a founding partner at Seed,

Health Prize for Journalists.

a multi-disciplinary advisory practice.

C O V E R S T O R Y P.20 | P O P A R T P.22

C R E AT I V E E C O N O M Y P.46

Ed was born in

and is, to the

Over the last two decades, Ray

disappointment of many, still not dead.

has directed businesses in the

He tells stories for a living, engages in a

media, marketing and IT fields,

host of activities that don’t involve actual

focusing mainly on the international

physical activity, and likes food, film, travel,

market. [raydebono.com]

and cameras.

S O F T P O W E R P.38

M A R K E T I N G P.50

Veronica is a freelance writer and Digital marketer and content writer

editor. She won the IGM Award for her

with a passion for technology,

work on Ethical and Positive Disability

sustainability and innovation. When

in 2016.

Federica’s not working, you can find her

D E S I G N P.26

underwater or travelling.

D E S I G N P.14

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

07

ARTS

THE SHOW MUST GO ON As one of Malta’s most highly regarded professionals in the theatre world, chairperson of the theatre advisory committee at MEIA and local actor Edward Mercieca is an inarguably household name. In an exclusive interview, Mercieca opens to Dayna Camilleri Clarke about his COVID-19 experience and charting the way forward from here.

08

I S S U E 67

MONEY

ARTS

“It’s been tough”, began Mercieca, “And I think

Attard on the impact of the pandemic on

the psychological effects for many are only

our Maltese artists identified a significant

starting to kick in now”.

number (41%) of the families of those who participated in the study were dependent on

The first case of COVID-

the income generated from their work in the

in Malta was

reported on March 7, 2020, and, to this day,

arts. Furthermore, many of these artists work

this uncertainty still lingers for those working

on short-term contracts with no advance

in the arts. The fear of the unknown is still the

payments, putting them in a vulnerable and

cause of great concern and disruptions in the

challenging position.

daily lives of those working in the sector.

The picture sounds bleak. So, what is the Undeniably, the pandemic has had a direct

solution, I ask Mercieca? “Vaccine passports

medical, economic, social and cultural hit on

will be integral to the survival of the arts. In the

everyone. Many families have experienced

UK, West End shows are going ahead as usual.

a decline or loss in wages, with some even

We must pick up the pace here. Locally, we are

suffering unemployment. For most of us, the

planning some trial mass events with various

home has become an office and a classroom

stakeholders. Slowly but surely, the business

for our children. Of course, the full effects of

will resume. We are fortunate the MEIA, Malta’s

the pandemic will only be known in the fullness

Entertainment and Art Industry’s Association,

of time. But it is undoubtedly one of the

was set up over COVID- . It’s a great body which has come together to fight our cause”.

most profound and challenging events of our history, particularly for artists.

We were one of the first sectors to shut instantly and one of the last to reopen. In fact,

The MEIA has spent months campaigning for

“We all know that these changes will have a

at present, we still have not fully resumed.

standing events to be allowed, saying that

massive impact, not only here in Malta but

It’s so challenging to plan productions;

many were struggling to make ends meet as

on societies around the world. But, again, no

rehearsals and auditions can take months,

the industry was the only one yet to reopen

one knows how it will turn out,” continued

and that right now is too risky for any private

despite the island’s strong vaccine drive.

Mercieca. He added, “Locally speaking, there

entity to take on. What if we started today,

Earlier in summer, artists, entertainers and

is an immense misconception that the arts are

and come February, everything is locked

event organisers took to the streets in Valletta

a hobby, and those working within the sector

down again? There’s a limit to how long we

to protest, saying they were not being included

can easily switch to a ‘proper’ job. Stigmas like

can keep postponing things. What we want is

in the government’s recovery plan.

this have been reinforced by the pandemic,

a level playing field. Events are going ahead,

things we have been fighting to overcome

albeit socially distanced and seated. From a

“We keep on repeating the same message that

for years. It’s not just the actors themselves.

financial point of view, it doesn’t make sense

our industry needs sufficient planning time. We

There’s lighting staff, writers, directors,

to hire a vast venue like MFCC and sell just a

call on Saħħa [the Health Ministry] to support

dancers, musicians, and so many more who

handful of tickets to fit in line with protocols.

us,” continued Mercieca.

lost everything overnight.

The protocols themselves require an immense

Ultimately, we still do not have enough relaxation of protocols to hold financially viable productions.

MONEY

infrastructure, from temperature checks to

“What worries me, unfortunately, is that we

ensuring enough sanitisation.”

live in a country where who shouts loudest and stamps his feet hardest gets his way.

When it comes to working constraints,

What’s more, because traditionally, artists

Mercieca explained, “To put you in the picture,

and people involved in the performing arts are

even before the pandemic, artists’ working

not generally that kind of person, it worries

conditions were challenging at best. Most do

me that performing arts schools might be

not have a regular salary, constantly chase

relegated down the list in the future.

late payments for their work and are prone to underpay and undervalued. The pandemic has

Ultimately, we still do not have enough

worsened the situation, with the closure of

relaxation of protocols to hold financially

theatres and other venues, the cancellation of

viable productions. We are crying out for

events and exhibitions and the restriction of a

this to happen. Nothing short of ordinary

host of other engagements (such as weddings,

capacity houses will suffice. After all, we are

gigs, clubs and restaurants) which artists have

only asking the government to allow what has

relied on to pay their bills.”

been happening illegally throughout summer with no COVID-

repercussions. I repeat - we

There’s no denying the industry has been

want a level playing field! It would be highly

shaken to its very core. A recently published

discriminatory if this does not happen to the

research study by Valerie Visanich and Toni

arts sector,” Mercieca concluded.

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

EXPO

MALTA’S EXPONENTIAL GROWTH The long-awaited Dubai Expo 2020 is finally up and running after being derailed by Covid-19.

The Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Sustainable Development, Hon. Miriam Dalli explains to Giselle Borg Olivier that Malta is taking full advantage of this event by actively seeking collaborative opportunities with countries that share a complementary vision.

Malta’s theme statement for Dubai Expo

is the island that brings together similar

pavilion is within the Opportunity thematic

2020 is Connecting Cultures, Generating

countries to discuss climate change,

district, which is precisely our chance to

Opportunities. So, what will Malta gain by

sustainability, and innovation in energy and

maximise our prospects as a country.

participating in the Expo?

water, amongst others.

Expo 2020 Dubai is the ultimate opportunity

The sub-themes of the Dubai Expo 2020 are

networking opportunities, communicate

to explore the world without travelling far

Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability.

with foreign trade delegations and

and wide. The fundamental aim of an Expo is

How do these themes match with Malta’s

encourage Maltese businesses, entities and

to connect different countries in one central

economic vision?

stakeholders to benefit from this platform

The government intends to extend its

throughout the six months’ duration of

location. Its prime focus is revealing each country’s core characteristics – culture,

Our country’s vision is to decarbonise our

Expo 2020 Dubai. Mobility and sustainability

history, trade, business enterprises, and more.

economy by 2050 and to do so we need to

are crucial for the country’s 2050 vision,

invest in innovation and make operations in all

targeting green energy, conservation, and

economic sectors more sustainable. Malta’s

environmental balance.

There is no doubt that Malta is actively seeking opportunities to connect with these countries. The thematic ideas of sustainability, innovation, trade - where we have several companies interested in exporting to the Middle East - are being discussed. Expo 2020 Dubai will help entrepreneurs gain a foothold in this particular geographical area.

Attracting further foreign investment is a prime topic on our agenda, which is why networking is of paramount importance. Given the many consumer-oriented people visiting the Expo in Dubai we are also concentrating on tourism since the event is a catchment area for tourism. In fact, we are closely liaising with the Malta Tourism Authority to promote Malta as the Final Destination through our pavilion.

Malta as the Final Destination is not just about tourism but also about attracting business opportunities. In addition, Malta

10

I S S U E 67

MONEY

EXPO

Expo 2020 Dubai will help entrepreneurs gain a foothold in this particular geographical area. countries, including Germany, Italy, Slovenia,

to the thematic weeks outlined in Expo 2020

Norway and Australia, amongst others,

Dubai, from the perspective of both a demand

to organise joint events that will focus on

and supply approach. Malta Enterprise has

networking and business opportunities.

explored different standpoints and evaluated areas where we want to continue expanding

Which local businesses and entities will be

our objectives concerning Malta’s vision on

collaborating with the Malta Pavilion at the

tolerance and inclusivity, space planning,

Expo?

climate and biodiversity. We will be attending, participating in, and networking at several

The Malta Pavilion is open to all the business

events focusing on these topics. We are also

Expos provide a platform for cross-cultural

community in Malta. We are looking at several

looking at hosting meetings or events that can

collaboration among countries to shape

areas of interest in the region, including real

bring countries with similar characteristics to

nations for a better future ahead. Which

estate and property industries, education and

ours to exchange ideas.

are the countries that Malta is looking to

knowledge, financial services and technology,

collaborate with, and on what ventures and

health and start-ups. If we look at education,

projects?

for example, Malta attracts a good number of students at university level and even beyond.

For logistic reasons we tend to look toward our neighbouring countries and those with a large

We shall also be having a financial services

trade balance, either importing or exporting.

industry trade delegation to further explore

Therefore, we will enhance collaboration with

the opportunities within the UAE and the

these countries, cross-matching topics and

Gulf countries. Another industry that is also

commercial and industrial areas with our trade

important is IT and tech, as it serves as a pull

delegations. We will also demonstrate our

factor for investors and businesses.

culture and history. In addition, we will explore the possibilities of connecting with other

As part of the Expo’s Programme for People

countries taking part in Expo 20202 Dubai.

and Planet, ten theme weeks will run

Dubai is an exciting hub in The Gulf main area,

throughout the six months of Dubai Expo

and the United Arab Emirates are a powerful

2020, including climate and biodiversity,

platform for Maltese business people to tap

space, and tolerance & inclusivity. To what

into as a trade base.

degree will Malta be contributing to any of these ten theme weeks?

As explained, the Malta Pavilion will showcase Malta and the opportunities that exist. Malta

Malta Enterprise has striven to tap into the

Enterprise is, in fact, in talks with other

opportunities that Malta can benefit from due

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

11

PROMO

THE MALTA PAVILION

Expo 2020 Dubai has opened its doors to Malta and the world.

The Malta Pavilion is strategically

includes a conference room, a

One hundred ninety-two countries

A world of entertainment, culture,

located in the Opportunity

meeting room, a boardroom and

will participate in Expo 2020

technology, cuisine and more

District, close to the UAE pavilion,

break out areas.

Dubai, which will host up to 60 live

come together at Expo 2020

events a day. Through its theme,

Dubai, as nations from across

with the theme focusing on ‘Connecting Cultures, Generating

Malta will use this platform

‘Connecting Minds, Creating the

the globe gather in the UAE for

Opportunities’. Spread over two

to showcase what we offer,

Future’, Expo 2020 Dubai is a

an unforgettable six-month

floors, the Malta Pavilion will

including a thriving economy,

platform to encourage creativity,

celebration.

welcome the visitors into four

industry incentives, business

innovation and collaboration

zones: tourism, investment and

opportunities, cultural and

across our three subthemes:

For further information, contact

trade, innovation and creativity

historical diversity and tourism;

Opportunity, Mobility and

us at maltapavilion-expo2020@

and lifestyle. The second floor

the final destination: Malta!

Sustainability.

maltaenterprise.com.

12

I S S U E 67

MONEY

OPENING END OF 2021

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO WORK?

Located on the perimeter of Malta’s Central Business District and surrounded by spectacular views, Quad high performing workspaces.

FOR BUSINESS LESS ORDINARY 2778 8300 | 7949 8555

thequad.com.mt

38,000m2 7,000m2 Open Spaces & Piazzas 6,000m2 Retail & Leisure Outlets 900m2 Fitness Centre 1,400+ Parking Spaces 105 Bicycle Spaces Turning Workspaces into Lifespaces.

Highly competitive rates for both leasing and sales. Let’s talk.

DESIGN

THERE’S SOMETHING NEW in TOWN The ACS College in Malta is launching the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Product Design to prepare the next generation of talents and boost the island’s creative spin.

Federica Tadiello spoke to course lecturers and top-notch Italian designers and creative thinkers Stefano Ollino and Tobia Repossi.

14

I S S U E 67

MONEY

DESIGN

On this page: Candy Coffee Mug (Stefano Ollino)

Stefano and Tobia, can you please introduce

multinational company, I started collaborating

I had the chance to work in many

yourselves?

with local brands that allowed me to explore

design fields such as communication,

the different fields of design: house furnishing,

advertisement and visuals in general, an

SO - I’m a product designer and founder of

smart devices, kitchen and accessories. But it

experience that nowadays I try to convey

Stefano Ollino Design Studio and True Flava, a

was with tap and appliance design that I had

to my students. I founded Tobia Repossi &

UI/UX and brand design agency. I started my

the most significant rewards. I won my first

Partners, an international design studio with

career 12 years ago, working in Italy and China,

international prize (Red Dot Design Award and

a portfolio of projects executed for major

where I had projects in Xiamen, Shanghai,

IF Design Award) thanks to a touch screen tap

Chinese brands. In addition, we designed

Shenzhen and Guangzhou. Over the years,

design (see picture). I won other awards, but

for European and American market-leading

we have developed more than 100 projects

the first is never forgotten.

companies that have their production and R&D in Asia. In my role, I work very closely

between physical and digital products.

TR - I graduated from Politecnico di Milano at

with stakeholders, customers and suppliers,

TR - I am a designer and have been in furniture,

the end of the nineties in architecture because

offering a return on investment approach.

electronic appliances and accessories design

there was no design faculty in Italy. It was

for over twenty-five years. I have worked

a common belief that product design was

I have a natural talent for communication

for market-leading brands in China, Europe

strictly connected with architecture because

and broad experience in teaching,

and America, and startups from China to

architects designed furniture and interiors.

mentoring and delivering public talks. These

Silicon Valley. My designs have been sold in

skills have benefitted from my experience

Apple Stores and other renowned stores and

as an academic at Politecnico di Milano

selected for international awards. Today, I

Faculty of Design and IED (Istituto Europeo

direct the Arkin Innovation Hub in Cyprus,

del Design). I also acted as a chief academic

which connects practical skills and academic

officer and advisor to the chief executive

research for the global demand for creativity

officer for developing international

and innovation.

partnerships.

Would you mind telling us more about your

My works have been selected for the

work and the awards won?

Compasso d’Oro Prize, Design Index, Mediastars, Modern Decoration Award,

SO - I had the opportunity to go abroad, and

A’Design Award and Red Dot Award and

after six months of internship in a Chinese

published in magazines and newspapers. »

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

15

DESIGN

On this spread: Secur’Egg for Aitivity; Mosquito Band Zapkito for Visiomed; Bluetooth Speaker for Kerry Audio; USB Drives for Maikii (Tobia Repossi)

With the methodologies described by your very own Edward de Bono in the fifties, Design Thinking is an excellent tool to think outside the box and invent new services, products or interfaces.

— Tobia Repossi In addition, I’ve been ranked 22nd in the

SO - I agree. The concept of a designer as

designers, systemic designers or user

world for Electronic Appliances by DAC, 40th

a craftsman is a bit old. Today, a designer

interface designers: their work is only focused

designer in China by World Designer Rankings

must have a broader view: the “objects” are

on the intangible ecosystem.

and 106th in the world.

not limited to fulfilling their function in the space only, but more and more often, they

TR - The concept of ‘design’ has changed and

What projects are you currently

are the physical and actual part of a broader

expanded over recent years. It now embraces

working on?

ecosystem. The designer must take into

a far more comprehensive range of areas

account several intangible elements that form

than the traditional ideas of physical objects.

SO - Teaching aside, the most exciting project

part of the user experience. He must take

Design now embraces new fields such as

my team and I are working on - together with

into account issues such as sustainability,

information transfer, visual design, interaction

Tobia - is a product in the IoT field (Internet

the social impact that a product might have.

design, motion design within a broader range

of Things), which will be presented at the

The designer is turning into a complete

of domains, such as marketing, architecture,

Dubai World Expo at the end of October.

professional who is very different from the

industrial design, etc.

Unfortunately, I can’t reveal more, but I hope I

romantic idea of the objects and furniture

will be able in the next few months.

craftsman.

In my case, I try to focus on the design of

Don’t get me wrong, a designer will still

industrial products as I feel that ideas creation,

TR - I am working on designing electronic

design chairs and stuff, but today you can

prototyping, and production are crucial for our

appliances for Silicon Valley and some Chinese

be considered a designer even without ever

society while also being personally satisfying.

hardware startups. I am also involved in

thinking of an object. Just think of interaction

designing and constructing a natural park

We hear more and more of “design thinking”

and a science museum in Cyprus, which will

as a mindset and approach that can also be

be one of the biggest projects of this kind in

applied to business. Could you explain to us

Europe. In addition, I also teach at ARUCAD

what it is and what it has in common with

(Arkin University of Creative Arts and Design

design?

in Cyprus) and soon at the Italian College of Design and ACS College in Malta.

SO - We could talk about design thinking forever. However, I will try to be as concise

Probably there’s a bit of confusion about the

as possible without getting lost in too many

term “design”. This word reminds many of

technicalities. Design Thinking is a creative

house furnishing, while this world is much

process that aims to achieve a verifiable result

more varied.

quickly: it is mainly used to innovate products,

16

I S S U E 67

MONEY

DESIGN

services and business models, but it can

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Product Design.

be applied to any area that requires finding

Can you explain to us what it is and how the

solutions to complex problems. Using a series

project was born?

of techniques that focus on understanding the problem, questioning assumptions and testing

SO - Thanks to ACS and above all to its

hypotheses, it is possible to solve the problem

President Dario Silvestri, I am given the

by finding unexpected, innovative or hidden

opportunity to live an unprecedented

ideas. And if they are not innovative ideas per

academic career experience for me. The

se, we can reasonably assume that they are

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Product Design is

practical solutions as they have been tested.

only one of the courses issued by the Italian College of Design (ICoD), a 360° academic

TR - Encyclopaedias have been written about

in the fifties, Design Thinking is an excellent

project in the world of design and of which I

design methodologies: it feels as though

tool to think outside the box and invent new

have the honour of being appointed Head of

designers build their personal methodology

services, products or interfaces.

College. The project was born from the vision

whenever they have free time. Design thinking

of Dario Silvestri and his ability to find market

is nothing new, and it’s just a way to put in

I think the process has a specific deficiency

order the production chain of ideas. The

at its core which is answering the question,

methodology of design built by Bruno Munari

“where do I find ideas?”. I’m a fan of a process

TR - Teaching at the ACS College in Malta is

in the sixties has nothing different except

called Synesthesia - often used in movies

an exciting and, at the same time, challenging

the names of the actual concepts of Design

and psychology: this term refers to cross

opportunity. In a very connected and cloud-

Thinking.

fielding or cross-pollination of ideas. So if I

based field, as the design is today, you can find

But sometimes, giving a structure to a

find myself designing a new game controller, I

yourself designing products from everywhere

process, especially in creativity, is a way to be

want to look at the entire market of controllers

and for everyone. As a result, places

more productive and efficient.

and some other fields where the interaction

considered outside the design environment

between hand and tool is robust, like utensils

can today be central and develop new

or kitchenware or something else.

businesses. Because product design today

Companies are taking extensive advantage of this methodology, especially in their most

opportunities in apparently saturated areas.

is one of the fastest-growing businesses, it

creative departments. With the methodologies

Together with other lecturers, you will

represents a massive opportunity for Malta,

described by your very own Edward de Bono

teach at ACS College in Malta for the

and ACS College can become central to this »

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

17

DESIGN

On this page: Melolab Earbuds; Sunrise Faucet (Stefano Ollino)

A designer must have a broader view: the “objects” are not limited to fulfilling their function in the space only, but more and more often, they are the physical and actual part of a broader ecosystem.

— Stefano Ollino process. Dario Silvestri intelligently caught

When will the first edition of the course

and to be able to grasp all its facets. I got

this opportunity with his innovative vision, and

start? Is there interest from the locals?

the impression that the mix of cultures and traditions and its significant technological

it will be beneficial to the design and creative environment of the island.

SO - The course will start at the beginning of

and innovative improvements make it an

2022. We have noticed considerable interest

exciting place with good potential.

When it comes to teaching design, what do

from our target audience. One of the reasons

you think are the most important teachings

is that we will be dealing with the most

TR - I have been there as a tourist,

to convey to students today?

current and disruptive topics in design and

appreciating the island’s amenities, and I

communication.

have colleagues living there. I look forward to seeing more about the design and creative

SO - I believe that today more than ever, students are looking for mentors, figures to

Have you ever been to Malta before? Did

atmosphere of the place and hopefully be a

be inspired by and to be able to say: “I want

you get to know the local design and

part of it.

to be like him”. If I look back to when I was

creative scene?

For more information on the various

a student, the teachers who left the best impression were those who told me about

SO - Yes, and I hope to be able to come more

courses and degree programmes, visit

their personal experiences, their path, the

and more often to experience the island fully

www.acs-college.edu.mt

ones who overcame that barrier of “I teach, you learn” and are open to sharing their stories. How they achieved their successes and what they learned from their failures. In the design world, especially, the technical part is only the tip of the iceberg, as being a designer means being open to contamination, to the culture of aesthetics and innovation, to passion and the continuous search for the creation of something that doesn’t exist. This is what I think is most important: telling about experiences, conveying the culture of the project and stimulating students to learn by living real design experiences. This last point will be one of the main elements of innovation that we will bring to ICoD.

18

I S S U E 67

MONEY

Technogym Bench 1 bench, over 200 exercises at your fingertips, everything you need to perform the widest variety of total body workouts, all in a compact footprint. Whatever your fitness level or goal, our dedicated content will be your personal coach to help you achieve your objectives faster than ever.

Official Distributor: Vivendo, Mdina Road, Qormi.

COVER STORY

WHAT’S IN STORE? Duncan Barry speaks to Dino Fino – the man behind an ever-famous and sturdy furniture brand – on the ongoing marketing campaigns, whether he has witnessed a change in the way customers purchase furniture and his firm’s plans for the future.

Dino, can you give us a recap on your

furnishings at affordable prices, but not only.

the moment. Once the customer decides to

latest products?

It offers an experience. Customers who visit

decorate their home with Dino Fino furniture

the Dino Fino showroom are treated to a feast

and furnishings, they enjoy the quality of

Dino Fino is a brand that has been growing

for the senses; beautiful furniture that offers

life needed in this modern age. Hence the

since its beginning four years ago. Dino

maximum comfort. This setup makes the

company motto - Experience. Live. Enjoy.

Fino Home offers high-quality furniture and

customer feel as if they were at home, living

In the past four years, the Dino Fino Home arm has seen incredible growth and continues to develop at a fast pace. The next landmark is an extension to the showroom that will be ready towards the end of the year, aiming to improve the company’s display of fabrics, wallpaper and home decorations.

Dino Fino Contract is a growing arm of the company which deals with corporate and business clients. In March 2022, Dino Fino Contract will launch 600 square meters of showroom space on the second floor, dedicated to contract clients and catering to offices, hotels, restaurants and coffee shops.

Dino Fino Home + Contract represents over

furniture brands in Malta, offering

high-quality products focusing on style and design. The suppliers’ emphasis on unique design leads to stylish furniture pieces while utilising top quality materials, ensuring the comfort and functionality of the items produced. The Dino Fino brand is in constant evolution. We envisage healthy growth for the Dino Fino Home + Contract and the Dino Fino Outlet operations; however, we also envisage developments in other areas of industry.

Can you give us some insight on the level of quality used to manufacture your furniture?

All furniture supplied by Dino Fino is produced abroad by professional suppliers who take great care in the quality of the items produced that are carefully designed to conform with modern-day trends. The suppliers’ emphasis on unique design leads

20

I S S U E 67

MONEY

COVER STORY

to stylish furniture pieces while utilising top quality materials ensures comfort and functionality of the items produced.

What makes your firm stand out in the local furniture industry?

Having been involved in the furniture retail industry for over 20 years, I have acquired vast experience that I’m now applying to nurture my company. Today, the Dino Fino brand is in its 4th year and is garnering considerable success due to its emphasis on quality service and customer satisfaction.

In a fast-moving industry like retail, it is essential to take decisions quickly, especially when trying to attract the younger sector of the market and high-end commercial contractors. This drives me to develop a

should be. Inevitably, many customers still

We have come across the campaign you

brand that is young and fresh by fostering a

prefer to visit the showroom to see and touch

launched. What is the message you are

team culture. In fact, I make it a point to be on

the furniture and furnishings before deciding.

trying to convey, and how is the campaign

the floor with the team as much as possible,

performing?

creating a healthy team environment that

Indeed, the online shopping phenomenon has

translates into quality service. My vision is

been steadily growing, and many customers

We have numerous campaigns going on,

to take the brand to market leadership and

have been resorting to online portals to buy

targeting different segments of the market.

diversify into other industry sectors.

items for their homes. Having observed this

The aim is to raise awareness about the Dino

market niche, we developed outlet.dinofino.

Fino brand to entice engagement, leading to

Have you seen a significant shift in

com, an online furniture store separate from

conversion.

the way consumers purchase products

Dino Fino Home + Contract that aims to offer

such as the use of online media?

great furniture and furnishings to online

The Dino Fino Group of Companies has many

customers at significantly reduced prices.

projects in store as it aspires to reach market

The Maltese market takes shopping for

leadership but also strives for diversification,

furniture very seriously. Home is every Maltese

Thanks to these two sales channels, Dino

becoming a multi-faceted organisation

family’s pride and joy, and that’s the way it

Fino ensures a broad market reach and is

with a portfolio of business units that are

now geared to cater to traditional buyers and

professional and profitable.

modern-day online shoppers.

The recent launch of the Dino Fino Finance

What changes has the company

p.l.c. Bond is evidence of the growth

seen post-COVID-19 in terms of services

experienced by the company, and as the brand

and products?

grows, the thinking process of the company

Today, the Dino Fino brand is in its 4th year and is garnering considerable success due to its emphasis on quality service and customer satisfaction.

MONEY

needs to develop too. Thus, a new board of The recent pandemic taught us to be ready

directors has been established, which will

for anything and that we should always

bring experience and a new mindset to the

allocate time to sit, think, plan and restructure.

Dino Fino concept.

Embracing these experiences is crucial as they

make us stronger. Moreover, the digital world is

Any plans we can look forward to in the not

developing quickly, and the recent lockdowns

too distant future?

further increased the customers’ use of online technology to carry out their purchases.

The Dino Fino brand is in constant evolution.

We envisage healthy growth for the Dino Fino

Having recognised this development,

Home + Contract operation and the Dino Fino

Dino Fino developed online services that

Outlet operation; however, we also envisage

allow customers to book personal online

developments in other areas of industry.

consultations with our designers and purchase their furniture from the comfort of

Visit www.dinofino.com to keep informed

their homes.

about the developments of the company.

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

21

POP ART

POP MASTER in the making

Duncan Barry speaks to Claude Camilleri: a pop artist who has injected colour into the pop art scene under the brand Miloman.

Photo by Federico Peltretti

22

I S S U E 67

MONEY

POP ART

Can you explain to our readers what pop art is all about?

Pop art is BOLD. VIBRANT. LOUD. It started as an art movement in the late fifties with subjects varying from everyday goods and products to images of industrialisation, commercialism, politics and celebrity. This genre, in my opinion, is as bold as conceptual art, different in approach, shocking or meaningless. Both genres converge objects or images to discussion topics, non-discussion or gaze; if it’s pop art or doodle art, it will stand out!

You were working with international artists and promoting their work. What inspired you to take up this art personally, and when?

Can you give us a brief of how it all started?

During the lockdown, access to artists and art became limited. Although one could connect online, when it came to art, the thrill of seeing artwork in person had an unparalleled experience to that of nonphysical form.

Last year I sketched and doodled unconscious, nonsense forms and shapes. One page of multiple images became two, and two became five. Finally, after going through numerous sketchbooks, the character appeared in all its entirety.

A mouth like Edvard Munch’s Scream, a blood orange garment, which could belong to a monk or a prisoner, and of course the main protagonist, a dog head, painted in lemon yellow, the character’s hair, also moving and alive. This free-spirited environmentalist, sometimes

with attitude, is instantly recognisable at first glance. Hello Miloman,

Today I work with signature sizes and use a signature colour palette.

welcome to the world!

My work includes visuals too. Both mediums complement each other,

and they are a great combination aesthetically and kinetically. For me

You have emerged with a character named Miloman. Where does the

transitioning from a curator to an artist was a big step. If I were going to

name derive from?

go in this direction, it would have to be worth the while.

My muse and four-legged best friend, Milo, my dog, was always by my

To get noticed, I focused on contrasts and perspectives. My work would

side anytime I doodled or painted. So, it was a no brainer to include

need to be enjoyed and understood across the spectrum, from children

his name in character. It was meant to be...Miloman. It reminded me of

to adults, and everyone in between. So today, I can say clearly Miloman

Japanese animation characters (anime) — one word, easy, memorable.

can become an international brand. Miloman is spreading colour to the

world one super fan at a time.

You have had a successful art show most recently. What direction

for growth is there in the art industry at present? And personally?

An Indi game developer has approached me to create a video game

with Miloman as the main character. This is beyond exciting. Miloman

Yes, thanks, it was indeed. Miloman’s art show was exceptional. The vibe

is coming to life. Literally. I see collaborations as a way forward both

of the people made it so. The bright, bold subjects, the simplicity in the

personally and for creatives. Together a lot can be done. Leverage and

works, easy for anyone to enjoy and affordable for anyone to collect.

synergy are key.

I believe each artist owns their path. This always makes art so exciting,

The NFTs digital asset world recent rise in popularity has promised to

liberating. For me, experimentation was key. Finding the mediums by

revolutionise the creative industry. Thus, there’s talk that people in the

which to express myself is essential.

NFT sector have approached you to contribute your works. »

This free-spirited environmentalist, sometimes with attitude, is instantly recognisable at first glance.

Hello Miloman, welcome to the world!

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

23

POP ART

Recently I have been approached by someone in the NFT sector (non-

All three artists, Ed Schembri, Rafael Labro and Clemens

fungible token is a unit of data stored on a digital ledger, called a

Hasendegarethn, were all loved and gone too soon. While words for such

blockchain, certifies a digital asset to be unique and therefore not

circumstances cannot bring comfort, they will be present in spirit and

interchangeable. NFTs can represent items such as photos, videos,

through their work.

audio, and other types of digital

files). A friend had commented

They all had different styles.

that I should consider NFTs. So,

For example, Ed Schembri had

I followed his suggestion and

a diverse palette, known for

briefly did some research a few

figurative works, expressionism,

months ago. Whilst instantly

with collections such as

bewildered by the opportunity

renditions and interpretations

this could give creatives, I knew

of Frida Kahlo. Raphael Labro

that without groundwork, be it tech, PR, or other, success would

was a neo-psychedelic artist; his Edward Schembri, Rafael Labro, Clemens Hasendegarethn

primary subjects included grand

Pop art is BOLD... as bold as conceptual art, different in approach, shocking or meaningless.

be slim unless some direction were imposed. So, a plan has been set in

metaphorical images of Goddesses and abstract works of the cosmos

motion, and research on NFT for Miloman is being done as we speak.

and universe.

But, before we launch, we need to do some groundwork first.

Clemens Hasengschwandtner was neo-pop. Cubist. Colourful, detailed,

What’s in it for pop artists like you when using such tokens? Is the

vibrant paintings of people, seascapes and landscapes. Contemporary,

aim to have digital artists gain formal recognition for their work

vibrant renditions of the island, including its characters and felines too.

and instil a sense of secured ownership of an artist’s works?

May they rest in peace.

NFTs give back directly to the artist. No intermediary or auction house.

It’s a sense of liberation being able to connect with the outside world

Any final words, aspirations or thoughts?

and build a sense of community and appreciation from the comfort of

your living space.

I aspire to create a Miloman world, creating art shows and visual

experiences in major cities around the globe, like Yayoi Kusama’s art. I

We lost well-known local artists, Rafael Labro and Clemens

wish to collaborate with international artists like Murakami and Romero

Hasengschwandtner, including my school friend, Ed Schembri.

Britto. I want all my artwork to soar in physical form and through

What impact have these unfortunate incidents left in the art

NFTs. This will happen with the proper patronage, the right team and

industry locally?

Miloman’s incredible fans.

Heartbreaking. The loss for our community is overwhelming.

You can find Miloman on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok.

24

I S S U E 67

MONEY

DESIGN

SUSTAINABLE CREATIVITY The designers behind the leather brand The Fold – Suzi and Tina Mifsud – and multidisciplinary artist Laura Besancon, the name behind The Vintage Collection, joined forces to create a veritable tour de force sustainable fashion. Veronica Stivala unfolds the story.

The coming together of the designers behind leather brand

in Barcelona. Many people’s solution to this has been

The Fold and multidisciplinary artist Laura Besancon,

the waist bag or fanny pack, which, while functional, is

who set up the second-hand shop The Vintage Collection,

definitely not stylish. Enter Suzi and Tina, who combined

has resulted in a beautiful exploration into vintage and

their backgrounds in architecture, fine art and design to

contemporary. And… it’s sustainable.

create The Fold. As the name gives away, the products are made by simply folding the leather. They are then held

Indeed, the three artists Suzi Mifsud and Tina Mifsud of The

together with a few studs. Apart from being innovative,

Fold and Besancon are all firm advocates of sustainable

the pouches are also environmentally friendly in that their

fashion. The three came together to create a photoshoot as

design minimises waste and stitching.

models wore items sourced by Besancon, styled with The Fold’s leather creations. More of this later.

The pouches are all made from just two materials: an irresistibly soft and durable leather discovered at a tannery

26

But first, you must be asking, what is The Fold? The Fold

in San Miniato, Italy, and brass hardware that holds the

is the brainchild of Suzi and Tina, interestingly inspired

fold together. The creatives currently have four designs on

by their fear of pickpockets during their time spent living

offer that come with matching belts. Named after one of

I S S U E 67

MONEY

DESIGN

four favourite spots in Barcelona, the pouches are available in three colours, shades of black, green, and red: nero, sottobosco and fiamma.

In its most compact design is the Apolo pouch, the ideal detachable compartment for travelling light. Slightly larger, the rectangular Palau is equally compact, light and versatile and can be worn around the waist, diagonally across the body or even without the belt as an elegant clutch bag. A pouch for the urban explorer, the Macba will have you stand out thanks to its versatile orientation and snazzy flap. Finally, the latest addition to the collection, the Mila, has some added depth with a quirky, inverted corner that makes it an eye-catching item to wear across the chest or fasten around the waist.

Supporting other businesses is strong on The Fold’s agenda, and they teamed up with Maltese outlet The Vintage Collection, styling their models for their photoshoots with the shop’s pre-loved garments.

Speaking about the collaboration, Besancon, says: “it was an exploration of our mutual interest in both vintage and contemporary aesthetics. A way of anchoring vintage in a contemporary world, and a love for quality-made, timeless items.”

Besancon invited Suzi and Tina to browse her collection, play dress-up, and create outfits that inspired them the most. They then combined the outfits with the different coloured fold pouches, wearing cross-body bags and belt pouches. The pouches worked well with the chosen

garments, especially when contrasted with patterned

All three artists are strong advocates for sustainable

blouses, block colours, and double denim outfits.

fashion. Speaking about their goals as a business, both

Suzi and Tina are adamant “to produce something unique

“Creating these looks as opposed to a full-on vintage look

in its craftsmanship yet stylish and functional”. They go

was very inspiring,” she notes, adding how she is “very

on to add how their “main concept is that of zero stitching;

interested in the in-between, not only in fashion but also

everything is held together by hardware.” As a result, they

in [her] artistic practice. For people who shy away from

are always looking for ways to be the most sustainable they

wearing vintage, [she feels] that this may offer a different

can.

perspective on the possibilities of vintage.”

Besancon’s drive behind sustainability has its roots in various pots if you will. Before becoming an artist, Besancon started as a photographer and was always looking for moments, spaces and situations to capture, to collect in a way. Before her MA at the Royal College of Art, she pursued a Bachelors in Communications with Psychology at the University of Malta and at the same time worked in retail for a couple of years.

“The excess witnessed, certain working conditions, and not knowing about the supply chain was not motivating, especially when I became more knowledgeable and aware about the effects of the fashion industry on climate change. However, these experiences motivated me to be part of the change and to use my experiences for the better,” she points out. »

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

27

DESIGN

Admittedly, transparency with regards to the supply

the way I approach work - fostering friendships, sharing

chain is not so common nowadays. But where does

knowledge and inspiration with like-minded individuals,

Besancon source her clothes? “A combination of a

and creatives striving to positively impact change and

myriad of ways,” she confides, adding that ‘being

sustainability practices. Her future is collaborative.

a relatively small curated collection, purposefully

symbolising a capsule-style wardrobe, and a slower,

Speaking about their future, The Fold designers say they

creative mindset towards clothing, it is important for

want to continue to push their creativity to the limit. So,

me to be enthusiastic about every garment – hence the

the future for The Fold will see more colours, shapes

various sources.”

and sizes, new designs, all with a similar concept to the

previous collection; think mix and match.

My latest sourcing endeavours include one very close

to home. I got vintage-filled luggage back to Malta with

Speaking of mix and matching, the three designers

items I found in my grandparent’s attic in a countryside

worked so well together, and we certainly have not seen

house in France. Immaculate condition, lined up, hanging

the last of their collaboration. In Tina’s words, “We feel

in a wardrobe. No one had been up there in years, and it

like our styles complement each other well, and there is

was my first time! Other times it is small purchases online

definitely so much more room for collaborations. We’ll

after hours of browsing, other times from some contacts

work together again once the new collection is done.”

made whilst living abroad, occasionally a few items

found locally, and recently some handpicked items from

As designers, the three creatives are making bold steps

private individuals. I liken the approach to my artistic

in design and promoting a sustainable approach to

practice in some ways - where I place importance on

fashion. And in Laura’s words, the onus is not just on

the process and the interconnections between items (or

the designers, but on all of us too: “Individually, in our

between objects in art installation work) to create the

everyday choices, we have the power to make important

final piece, or in this case, the collection.

steps towards changing our world for the better – and it

can start with what we put on our body each day!”

As a multidisciplinary artist, she is interested in

28

collaboration, especially through participatory art

To find out more about the pouches and to order one of your

projects and the co-creation of works. This is also part of

own, visit www.itsfold.com.

I S S U E 67

MONEY

Flexible Serviced Workspace to focus, collaborate and be creative

Business Office Services International – Malta provides fully serviced private workspace of various sizes accommodating single or multiple workstations in Malta’s Central Business District.

For further enquiries, please send an email to amanda.balzan@boservices.com.mt or call on +356 9900 4016 Vision Exchange Building, Triq it-Territorjals, Zone 1, Central Business District, Birkirkara, CBD 1070, Malta

www.bos-international.com

Furnished and Scalable offices, according to your business requirements.

17

Modern meeting rooms to facilitate your physical or online meetings, bookable via the BOSI app.

A welcome centre manned by a reception team.

Internet provided throughout the Business Centre.

Business and Registered address.

Onsite parking.

PROMO

CREATING SUSTAINABLE GROWTH & VALUE While CEOs remain overwhelmingly male, Lea Hogg examines how Deborah Schembri joined an elite cadre of female leaders when she was appointed CEO of STM Malta Pension Services Limited, a retirement scheme administrator firm administering €1.8 billion in assets, shattering the ‘glass ceiling’.

Recognition for her achievements

value appreciation than male

includes the Businesswoman of

peers and deliver excess risk-

the Year Award recognising her

adjusted returns for their firms.

pivotal role in structuring and growing STM Malta into a major

While global financial institutions

global pension provider. Other

have a poor record of appointing

accolades include Most Innovative

women to top posts, with only six

Entrepreneur by Wealth & Finance

female CEOs in

and Corporate Vision’s Excellence

in the U.S., U.K. and Europe,

Awards for the Most Influential

change is evident. For example,

Businesswoman in Finance.

Christine Lagarde is the first

such companies

female President of the European In 2015 the New York Times wrote,

Central Bank, Jane Fraser was

“fewer large companies were run

appointed CEO of Citigroup in

by women than by men named

, the first woman to head

John”. Since then, the needle

a Wall Street bank, and in

has moved marginally, and now

Alison Rose took over NatWest

,

23% of Global 500 companies are

Group, the first woman to lead one

headed by women. But women

of Britain’s biggest lenders.

make up only one-third of all FTSE

30

100 board positions and just 15%

Over two decades, Deborah

of finance directors. This appears

acquired an unparalleled

counterintuitive as an S&P study

armoury of readily transferable

revealed that most firms with

hard and soft skills performing

female CEOs saw a 20% increase

leadership roles in insurance

in stock price while female CFOs

and pensions, gaming, the care

increased profits by % in

industry, construction and

months’ post-appointment.

property development, the

Moreover, female CEOs drive more

energy sector and hospitality and

I S S U E 67

MONEY

PROMO

travel. She has leveraged these

a critical component of the

common. Optimism is vital, and

is understanding, compassionate

skills to transform businesses,

business. Schembri acknowledges

to achieve goals, CEOs need to

and reliable. Ultimately, she says

attributing her success to

that COVID-

have a clear and ambitious vision

that a business leader must

vision, communication, integrity

leaders adopt new ways of

that guarantees a successful

always act in the company’s

and curiosity. “I have always

working by embracing digitisation

business. Great CEOs can inspire

best interest, the public, and

concentrated on the company’s

and reorganising supply chains.

loyalty in their employees, which

employees.

has made business

has a positive effect on staff

strategy and objectives, while ensuring that the finance function

As we enter the phase of post-

commitment and retention,

Ongoing education is necessary to

facilitates their realisation,” she

pandemic, she believes business

which will increase sales and

stay at the helm of any business,

says.

leaders must do more than

customer satisfaction. When their

and Deborah devotes a few hours

fine-tuning. They need to step

management inspires staff, they

a day to private study. However,

back and consider a broader

become more creative, motivated

she says that another important

She believes that one of the most difficult challenges that business

aspect is to identify each

leaders face is building solid

employee’s strengths so that they

teams. She mirrors the advice

can contribute to the business’s

of Steve Jobs, who said that “it doesn’t make sense to hire smart people and tell them what to do” and that it is best to “hire smart people so they can tell us what to do.” Interestingly S&P identified that companies with female leaders tend to be more diverse, and statistics prove that leaders with diverse and transferable skills create higher-performing teams.

Deborah cites that it is a prerequisite for business leaders to keep up with the latest developments in technology. For example, a McKinsey survey finds that companies have accelerated

An S&P study revealed that most firms with female CEOs saw a 20% increase in stock price while female CFOs increased profits by 6% in 24 months’ postappointment.

growth based on their skill set and experience.

Deborah has managed to catapult STM Pensions to become the leader in Malta’s pensions sector. As the maximum state pension in Malta is just under €17,000, Deborah stresses that it is now essential to invest in a private pension to be able to live comfortably during retirement.

STM’s innovative pension schemes have helped people meet retirement income goals. ‘”Our schemes will play an ever-greater role in maintaining the future adequacy of pensions.” she says.

STM Malta has been instrumental

the digitisation of customer and

in setting up a committee

supply-chain interactions and internal operations by 3 to 4

perspective to enable them to

and results-orientated. They,

within the Malta Chamber of

years. And the share of digital

rethink how they are running their

therefore, tend to work harder,

Commerce to address the lack of

or digitally enabled products

operation, and even to an extent,

enabling them to reach their goals

sustainability of the state pension.

accelerated by a staggering seven

why they exist. COVID-

with the likelihood that they will

This will empower employers and

years.

businesses to identify several

also exceed their targets.

employees to make informed

has led

decisions to invest in private and

trends that will play a substantial Deborah adds that business

role in re-shaping the future’s

On meeting Deborah, one can

acumen is essential, and in the

global economy.

see that she possesses excellent

workplace pension schemes.

self-confidence, and this is vital

Deborah’s vision and leadership

new strategies and practices

Deborah Schembri believes

to make the right decision for her

in the sector have placed Malta

need to be implemented using

that there are qualities and

organisation with clear thought

as a leading base for cross border

cutting-edge technology as

skills that the best CEOs have in

and foresight. With her team, she

pension plans.

current economic environment,

Deborah is a CPA, holds an MBA from Henley, an honour’s degree in accountancy, an advanced diploma in Retirement Provision, a diploma in tax, and is a Fellow of the Institute of Accountants and the Malta Institute of Taxation. She is the chairperson of the Malta Association of Retirement Scheme Administrators and sits on various committees within the Malta Chamber of Commerce and the Institute of Financial Services Practitioners.

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

31

BOOKS

REBEL with

A CAUSE Former National Book Council chairman, Mark Camilleri, speaks with Giselle Borg Olivier about his soon-to-be-released exposé on the Labour Party and the secrets behind this political powerhouse.

32

I S S U E 67

MONEY

BOOKS

A couple of weeks ago, you were asked to hand over the

the new administration entered office. I knew that my fate

keys after your contract as chairman of the National

was sealed, and I stayed in my position until the very end

Book Council expired. How did that make you feel?

only because my stakeholders – publishers and authors - supported me to a great extent. The public may not

It was very emotional for me because I built the entity as

be aware of the intricacies of what happens behind the

it is known today. Although the entity was in existence, it

scenes of our industry, but that’s the real story. Rather

was more of an amateurish club rather than a professional

than say, “to hell with everything”, I worked even harder

organisation embedded in the industry. It had only one

to ensure that I exploited the amount of time I had left

employee and virtually no budget.

to the best of my ability to initiate and execute as many projects as I could until I had to go. I announced my book

I changed the entity by introducing professional principles,

because this is my current source of income. I will be self-

such as commercial principles. We grew gradually until we

publishing this book, and if it proves to be successful, I

became a very efficient entity in the book industry, both

will consider opening a publishing house.

regulatory and commercial.

Some people believe you’re writing this book out of Every year we hit record highs in terms of sales at the

spite because your contract wasn’t renewed. Is this

Malta Book Fair. Through our regulatory frameworks, we

the case?

introduced new sources of revenue to the industry, such as public lending rights, the enforcement of licenses and

I would be lying if I said that I didn’t have emotions behind

more. As a result, during my tenure, book sales increased,

everything that happened, but let me put things in

the number of books published increased, new authors

perspective because the reality is more complex. I was

found a new space and new support, and publishers had a

going to announce this in my book, but I will announce it

lifeline during periods of severe difficulty.

here since you asked me this question.

One of my proudest achievements at the Book Council was

In

to export Maltese literature through the selling of rights

ambassador because the government back then was in

and translations worldwide. My biggest coup was when I

real trouble – this was after the revelations of 17 Black.

sold Walid Nabhan to Peter Owen, the publishers of Herman

The intention behind this offer was to remove me from

Hesse. Walid’s book is coming out in London in October. I

the political scene, as has been done with many other

devoted a lot of my energy and time, and I sacrificed a lot of

left wing-leaning Labourites – like when Mary Louise

sleepless nights, so it makes me emotional to leave all that

Coleiro Preca was made President, George Vella was also

and a bit fearful about my legacy because you never know

made President, Helena Dalli is European Commissioner

whether your legacy will be preserved or not.

for Equality, and Leo Brincat is in the European Court of

I was offered the possibility to become an

Auditors. These kinds of plum jobs were always available This happened after you had announced that you were

for people like me who were not entirely in agreement

going to write a tell-all book about the goings-on within

with the political line that Joseph Muscat was taking.

the Labour Party. Do you think that you self-sabotaged

And, for obvious reasons, Joseph Muscat preferred to

your role?

get rid of us. I refused the option, and I’m paying the consequences.

No, to be honest, I’ve known about the government’s intention to remove me from the Book Council ever since

I don’t think that ambassadorial posts should be given that way, but they do – that’s why Emmanuel Mallia was made an ambassador; it’s not because he’s competent in diplomacy, but because they want to get rid of him.

Unfortunately, however, they want to get rid of Emmanuel Mallia for terrible reasons, which I will mention in my book.

I could never take a plum job, but the government wouldn’t have offered me a position of executive authority because they didn’t want me to have any power. So, they tried to give me a placement that would zip me up and make me happy, but I’m not just satisfied with money. I’m not the kind of person who would do anything for money. I like to make my money honestly, and I’ve always done so.

I’m a historian and a writer, so my way of making money is by writing. People want to know the truth, so why not »

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

33

BOOKS

give it to them? They’re going to have it now; they’re going to have my truth.

Why is now a good time to write and publish this book?

I’m no longer part of the system; I could never have written this book as a government executive. One must make choices in life – you either work as part of the system or you’re going to work outside of it, and both are good options if they’re done well. I’ve been a government executive for eight years now, so it’s good to be on the other side and be able to speak more freely, and I’m enjoying it right now.

Had you maintained your role as chairman of the

few years ago, but I will be telling the stories that need to

National Council, would you have been okay with

be said because if they’re not told, we will lose a part of

remaining within the system knowing the secrets that

our history. So, I’m delighted to contribute to the fight for

you know?

justice. Still, I’m also interested in the historical aspect of these stories to make sure that our history is written

That’s a difficult question. Many people have big

correctly. Now that I can do so, I will write it in the most

expectations of me; they think I can execute a revolution

uncensorable way possible.

single-handedly and turn the tables by myself. On the other hand, many more people also know many things and have

The Maltese people have witnessed several episodes

never spoken out. Many people are privy to many secrets

that could be classified as criminal and arrest-worthy,

and can probably help the police prosecute people like

yet nothing has happened in that regard. Do you think

Joseph Muscat.

that your book will tip the scales and help for action to be taken?

If one works within the system and makes compromises, it depends on the relative context. In my context, I’m

I hope so. One of the significant problems that we fail to

not a very important person in the bureaucracy. I was an

address is that we have a serious structural problem. Our

important person to the book industry, and for me, that was

Attorney General is not only not incentivised to act but was

more important than being a political militant. I know many

part of the scheme (along with her ex-boss Peter Grech) to

secrets because I was a party delegate and a government

cover up for them, being part and parcel of a system that

executive. Still, most of the things that I know have nothing

directly abetted large scale corruption. I believe that the

to do with my previous positions, but simply because I have

current Attorney General and Peter Grech should both be

many friends and contacts.

investigated.

These are not easy decisions to take because when you

For example, we know that they intentionally made sure

reveal certain things, you forfeit other opportunities. I took

that Brian Tonna was not investigated, that Nexia BT wasn’t

this step because I couldn’t live with my conscience. So, it

searched and that they went out of their way to actually

wasn’t a question of ‘if?’ but ‘when?’. If I hadn’t done this

advise that they aren’t searched. This news has already

now, I would have done this later and probably by then,

emerged, and we have the evidence.

many of the things would have already come out, so I’m just the first person to reveal this information.

My book will explain how certain civil servants and bureaucrats played an essential role in ensuring this

You claim that your book will expose secrets and

corruption goes unpunished. I will also explain how Victoria

underhand operations in the Labour party. Is the

Buttigieg became Attorney General and how Edward

content, therefore, incriminating? Will names be

Zammit Lewis became Justice Minister.

mentioned that could lead to arrests?

Nonetheless, many good people in the civil service have The direct answer to this question is: yes. However, it

resisted the generosity of Joseph Muscat, and I will

depends on the police because what I will be mentioning,

be doing justice to them as they found themselves in

ironically, is already known by several official members in

challenging situations.

the police force… it may just not be known to the public.

34

So, I will be helping the police by giving them a clearer

I will also be explaining that when Robert Abela called

picture of how things happened. Some situations may

for continuity, he wasn’t just pandering to the Labour

be challenging to investigate because they happened a

hardcore; he really meant continuity. He believes in

I S S U E 67

MONEY

BOOKS

continuity – in terms of their rent-seeking regime, in

powerful organisation like the Church. You may select the

terms of how they do politics, in terms of how they look at

Church and the teachings of Christ, but you think that the

corruption.

Pope is corrupt, so what do you do in that case? Do you renounce Christianity, or do you renounce the Pope? But if

They changed their version when the inquiry on Daphne’s

you reject the Pope, then the Church will ostracise you – so

murder came out, saying, “This is a new state”, but it’s all

it’s a very complex situation.

contradictory and confusing. They are playing partisan politics in a very shallow manner while missing the wood

This is what many critics miss when they criticise us

for the trees. People are not stupid; they know that it’s

for supporting Muscat in 2017. I’ll be writing about this

bizarre that we have politicians and high-profile figures

at length and explaining what we were doing within the

who haven’t been taken to court yet. The illegalities are so

Labour Party… what happened, how we were relating to

explicit, yet everyone is still out there because everything

Muscat, how we were speaking to him, what the conditions

was covered up again.

were… things are not so simple. There is a lot of omertà.

You say that people aren’t stupid, but it seems that

You’ve said that you want to see the PL become a ‘clean

people don’t care either. Or perhaps the people who

party’ – what will it take for that to happen?

care about whether corruption is investigated, as to whether people are arrested, seem to be in the

It will take a multi-generational change of people where

minority… most people appear to be very apathetic.

new generations enter politics with very different views than those of their political leaders. I think this is already

Malta, despite being a very small society, is a very complex

happening in fundamental terms; many young people have

one. In my book, I’ll be explaining how the Labour Party

a critical outlook.

became what it is today – it’s not like a political party any longer; it’s like the Catholic Church in the

s.

For example, civil society protests in my day used to be attended by the same number of people, nowadays, there are young women from all political parties who are

People want to know the truth, so why not give it to them?

They’re going to have it now: they’re going to have my truth.

pro-choice and who are friends, and they are more in agreement with each other than they are with their peers in their parties.

I see many structural changes where new generations will completely change the political landscape; however, this young generation must face the current brick wall of rentseekers and petty oligarchs. This fight will probably evolve cross-party; however, I’m optimistic in the long term, but in the short term, I think it will worsen before it gets better.

The conflict right now is not between Labour and PN; the battle is against the rent-seekers and against those who are taking advantage of politics to exploit public resources,

The Labour Party is not just a party that you vote for in the

etc. And, unfortunately, there’s still impunity, and it’s

elections; it’s a social network that addresses the financial

even done brazenly, such as with the yacht marina they’re

and social problems of the people both on a micro-level and

proposing in Marsascala – it’s brazen moral corruption.

on a macro-level. The whole organisation works as a clerical

It’s literally a continuity of Joseph Muscat’s rent-seeking

institution; you have the Pope equal to the Prime Minister,

regime.

and everything is done under his guidance and direction.

MONEY

There is no dissent, obviously; there’s no room for debate

For the young people who are currently contesting

or critical thinking. Whatever the Prime Minister says is

under the PL label… doesn’t it prove that they endorse

dogma, and people believe it.

the current government and its way of doing things?

This is how we should see the problem, and this is why the

No, not necessarily. Many good people in Labour have

Nationalist Party fails, and Labour keeps winning. This is

excellent intentions and want to contribute positively.

because the PN fails to understand how society works, and

I’m afraid I must disagree with their choice of supporting

Maltese society is complex. For example, I was a Labour

Labour right now, but I don’t think they are inherently our

Party delegate, and many people within the Labour Party

enemies. I believe that our enemies are the people in power

know that Joseph Muscat is corrupt and they don’t like

who persist in the continuity of the rent-seeking regime

it. Still, it’s the same situation as when you belong to a

and do the same things as before, like the yacht marina. »

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

35

BOOKS

For example, I believe that having Chris Fearne as Minister

and I’m trying to do that in the best way possible through

of Health is an excellent thing as there would have been

my abilities, interests, and doing something ethical.

more deaths due to the pandemic. The Prime Minister had a more tolerant attitude at the beginning of the pandemic

I had other opportunities like becoming an ambassador, and

in terms of opening up. It was only thanks to Chris Fearne

I decided to refuse these and instead do what I like doing

that the government was seriously engaged in minimising

best. I’m enjoying working on this book with the designers,

deaths and cases.

the editors and proofreaders, and doing something that I think is a good thing because my book will contribute to the

This is always a grey issue; it’s not black and white. The

fight for justice. For now, that’s what counts.

Labour Party is currently captured by the wrong people Some people claim that you’re a traitor to the Party for writing this book. What do you say to them?

Will names be mentioned that could lead to arrests? The direct answer to this question is: yes.

I would say that by no means am I a traitor. On the contrary, I love the Labour Party – the traitors are those who are using the Labour Party for their interests and personal gain, and there are many of them. The traitors of the Labour Party are the ones who have hijacked the Party to solicit deals from Yorgen Fenech. All those who have become government executives and Labour Party politicians for their gain are the biggest traitors. They have pushed us to the precipice, to the extent that Malta has been greylisted, and we face severe economic challenges. They are the ones who should meet the public and pay back all their dues to society.

and people who aren’t even Labourites! For me, Robert Abela is not a Labourite. This person was never involved in party affairs and party militancy; this is just someone who

I have never taken a single thing from the Labour Party. On

became Prime Minister because Joseph Muscat supported

the contrary, I have contributed a lot of my time and energy

him.

to the LP. I restored their library and archives, and I was secretary to the Isla Committee. I’ve done a lot of work.

I have been involved in political militancy and with the

Robert Abela hasn’t done even 1% of the voluntary work I’ve

Labour Party for many years, and I’ve never seen Robert

done for the Party, and these people have the gall to call me

Abela anywhere.

a traitor? Well, I’ll tell them to f*ck off!

That doesn’t make the Labour Party a corrupt organisation;

Do you fear for your safety once the book comes out?

again, it’s like the Church. The Church is massive; just

We all know what happened to Daphne Caruana Galizia.

because you have a bad Pope doesn’t mean ‘let’s burn down

Do safety and security concerns cross your mind?

the Church’. I don’t want to burn down the Labour Party; I love the Labour Party! I’m fighting against the Labour Party

No, because I live in a hidden and secure location, and as

because I want to see it do better.

long as I keep myself safe, nothing will happen, so I do not fear for my security.

I’m not campaigning for the Nationalist Party, but I’m not going to vote Labour. Personally, and politically, my

Does that mean that you will never return to the local

perspective is to support third-party candidates, but that

political scene?

doesn’t mean that I want to burn down the Labour Party

and extinguish it from existence.

I am not a politician, so it has never been my interest to get into local politics.

My strategy right now is to exert maximum pressure and maximum militancy to see a radical change in politics,

… perhaps to help with the regeneration of the

mainly to see the Labour Party rejuvenate itself. It’s going

Labour Party?

to be a long process; it’s not something that will happen overnight.

I would be happy to do so, but I will do so at a distance for now.

We know the next election is imminent. Do you think

36

that your book will influence the public’s vote?

The book will be released in October 2021. Mark Camilleri

I want to think that I have that power and influence, but I

is promising an innovative launch to the book but isn’t

don’t know. So my intention right now is to make a living,

spilling any secrets yet!

I S S U E 67

MONEY

THE ART OF QUITTING

Work sucks, we know “Quitting felt like breaking through the surface of the water, like breathing again.”

Work is not supposed to suck. Don’t settle for less.

SOFT POWER

MALTA’S SOFT POWER POTENTIALS The Cultural Paradigm Ray de Bono speaks to the former editor of the leading Maltese language Sunday newspaper, It-Torca, branding expert, historian and renowned author Aleks Farrugia. He also met with firebrand Jon Mallia, a talk show host and thinker who brings an original mix of theatre, social commentary and public debate in a language that is fresh, sometimes shocking, but always to the point. The questions circle around the need to improve our cultural biosphere as part of Malta’s overall Soft Power credentials.

In my previous articles on Malta’s Soft Power credentials, we started by providing an overview of the many attributes that define a nation’s Soft Power: from its standard of living, education standards, literacy levels, the ease of doing business here, the international perception of our nation’s identity and trust in its institutions to the way our nation’s image appeared in the eyes of the world.

I interviewed bankers, business leaders, start-up gurus and entrepreneurs. We debated the financial and economic dimensions affecting Malta’s Soft Power potential. Now it’s time to speak to equally important influencers, artists, authors and thinkers. Finally, we met the people whose words – both written or spoken – project our lives.

As with many other subjects in Malta, there are two or more ‘schools of thought’, and what one side sees as white, the other side may often see as grey, if not pitch black. Our guests opened to MONEY and revealed all about their views of Malta’s culture and the arts, with a dose of politics thrown in (for a change). So, prepare yourselves to be immersed in Aleks Farrugia and Jon Mallia’s profound observations. Here we go.

38

I S S U E 67

MONEY

SOFT POWER

Culture and the arts are intrinsically

I’ll focus on that which I feel has provided the

at you is the stern, the unwavering gaze of

central in a nation’s identity and image.

most significant impact in this regard: the

unlimited human artistic potential - or every

So how do you see culture and the arts

internet.

shade of porn - depends on where you decide

developing in Malta?

to explore.

Its advent has heralded democratic platforms

AF - Good things are happening in the arts and

where artists can share their work without

I don’t think we’re anywhere in the nation’s

culture of the Maltese Islands. I see exciting

traditional editorial impositions. This has

cultural and artistic development to celebrate

artists coming up, especially in the visual arts

proven fertile ground for many projects that

yet. Nonetheless, I do see a landscape replete

and some new voices in literature. However, it

would have otherwise died on conception. I

with creative risk-takers willing to take a spill.

doesn’t look promising in the music scene; we

cannot see TVM ever greenlighting Kaxxaturi,

Brikkuni, Alex Vella Gera, Brodu, Take 2, Lapes -

are still losing the best elements who prefer to

for instance. And while I wouldn’t call the

are the few that come to mind in the brief time

take their chances abroad. In the theatre, it’s

podcast art, it can undoubtedly be considered

I must write back to you. These guys put it all

I think that the most worrying tribalism is not the partisan political ones; classism and racism are the worst because they are silent yet endemic; they exist even within the political parties.

— Aleks Farrugia a long way uphill. Whatever achievements are

a cultural asset - one that would not have

on the line every time. Do they produce things I

being made in these areas are primarily due to

found a welcome home in traditional media.

don’t like? Many times. But it would be naive to

individual perseverance and entrepreneurship.

believe that a high failure rate is not implied in

But, unfortunately, structurally, the artist is

The internet also affords the fledgling artist

such risky artistic behaviour.

still pretty much isolated.

a kit of entrepreneurial tools to promote

their work, sell concert tickets, raise funds

But I suppose what matters is that embedded

The institutional backup is still very thin.

and so on. This, again, adds another level

in their successes and their failures are the

And whatever assistance there is must be

of independence. And independence is

seedlings for Malta’s still nascent cultural

continuously shared with the dilettantes, who,

crucial insofar as the artist wishes to

future.

because of their populist reach, have more

pursue an artistic timbre that is true to her

political weight; unfortunately, institutions

disposition. Now that might prove to be utterly

Many commentators complain of tribalism

rarely distinguish between professional artists

unappreciated in the marketplace of ideas;

affecting Malta’s political landscape. Do you

and these dilettantes, and when they do, they

it can be considered seminal or anywhere in

agree with the perspective?

tend to favour the latter. Moreover, successive

between. Nonetheless, the cultural landscape

Maltese governments have failed to see that

itself stands to benefit, which doesn’t find

AF - We tend to emphasise the role of political

culture-oriented industries create well-paid,

itself recycling the same bland, inoffensive set

tribalism in Malta, but then see what’s

sustainable, and green jobs like banking,

of products for yet another inconsequential

happening in the United States or closer to

gaming or IT.

decade.

home, what’s happening in post-Brexit Britain,

or Poland’s situation. True, we suffer from a

Moreover, culture-oriented business tends

Plus, the internet is an endless universe

divided society inherited from colonialism’s

to beautify and enhance their space and

of creative output. Some might choose to

‘divide and rule’ policy. All ex-colonial countries

directly and indirectly create well-being

emulate what a foreign counterpart creates,

were left with that virus running through

adjoining communities. But, here, culture is

adding a local slant to give it an original guise.

their veins. But I think that the most worrying

still an afterthought, still viewed as something

Others might internalise a more profound, far

tribalism is not the partisan political ones;

peripheral rather than essential to a growing

more important principle: that the creative

classism and racism are the worst because

economy. We urgently need a change in

endeavour exists in an almost infinite

they are silent yet endemic; they exist even

thinking.

landscape and that artistic courage and

within the political parties. And they determine

discipline can have the practitioners emerge

those who are in and those who are shut out.

JM - Development is affected by numerous

out of their exploration with the treasure one

factors: state policy, history, Malta’s ascension

never knew existed. If you look at the internet

JM - What we are suffering stems from a

into the EU... but for the sake of this interview,

long enough, what you will find staring back

penchant for fanaticism borne of a nation in »

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

SOFT POWER

waiting. First, we were the subjugated and

Capitalism is not nice. It is ferocious, predatory

when some of what has wedged itself into his

the colonised. Then we were unquestioning

by its very nature. And to answer your

budding unconscious mind will surface at a

illiterate Catholics, and now we are Laburisti

question – having to speak even from my

time of need.

or Nazzjonalisti - this attitude blocks us en

recent experience with the European Prize for

route towards discovering what it means to be

Literature – no, nobody will look at us better

Furthermore, I know that people who belong

Maltese.

because of our art or culture, institutionally

to one camp or another are undergoing an

speaking. So, I would rather talk of people,

existential crisis instigated by specific public

We have independence now, but clearly, we do

and there, yes, our art and culture are an

conversations. I am sure that for some, this

not understand how it works. We are a nation

opportunity to expand our minds, create

will herald an eventual metamorphosis. It will

lost in its land. But out of the mire emerge a

human connections, and better understand

take a lot of guts. However, getting caught out

confident, loud few that assure us that waving

our place in the world.

on the wrong side of history is not a tragedy

party flags, fawning over a pathetic pantheon

anyone can take lightly.

of imposter gods and yelling banal slogans can

Take the recent successes we had with local

lend us a little self-worth, and here we are - a

film productions abroad, the collaboration

Every nation has figures that sum up what’s

nation split at the seams. And while I am not

with literary figures from around Europe and

best about its character. An icon need not

myself Catholic, I am agnostic; I believe that

the Mediterranean. They widen our human

be the most famous. This person must

much of the Christian value structure can be

and artistic horizons. But that won’t move

represent something more profound about

called upon to give us a sense of self-worth

governments or institutions a mere inch from

a nation’s spirit. One doesn’t have to be

through virtue that perhaps is even more

their politics and their machinations.

heralded by everyone to be an icon. Some

helpful than a national identity. But, of course,

are controversial and have run-ins with the

this is invariably difficult, as Christian culture

JM - It’s clear that no one is effective in

state; others can be academics, artists or

demands that we do what is right over what is

stirring this ship in any direction other than

civil servants. If I had to ask you to name

immediately expedient.

a continued insistence by the establishment

three Maltese icons – who would your

that nothing is as gravely wrong as the

heroes be?

Malta’s image has been tarnished locally

naysayers make it out to be. Leafing through

and overseas, and despite the island’s many

the dailies is like being subjected to watching

AF - I have had heroes in the past, but in the

blessings, the country is going through a

the Monty Python Dark Knight sketch on

end, to some measure, they have all let me down. People are complex, contradictory.

They are rarely, if ever, heroic in themselves.

The first requisite for heroism is doing what is congruent with one’s value structure rather than what one is coerced into doing by force of any kind or expediency.

— Jon Mallia

Instead, they are made heroes, and usually, during the process, they are dehumanised. So, I will give you three people I find inspiring – for some reason, and they are all dead, perhaps that says something too: Manwel Dimech for his vision for Malta and his dream of freedom; Dun Ġorġ Preca, for the humility to reach out to all regarding of their social class; and Ġwann Mamo, for writing the book I always wanted to write.

JM - For me, the first requisite for heroism is doing what is congruent with one’s value structure rather than what one is coerced

‘grey patch’ (...) So how do you see culture

repeat, where the crusader insists his fighting

into doing by force of any kind or expediency.

and the arts as conducive to a positive

qualities remain unhindered even when all his

The second is to define a value structure for

change in this regard?

limbs have become dismembered.

oneself that provides fertile ground for one’s

talents and, when possible, those of others

AF - I think most of the ‘international’ tarnish

I think the fruits of what certain artistic

to grow. The third is to figure out, and therein

you are referring to – without diminishing all

exponents are purveying presently is yet to

act out, modes of being in the world that

that is wrong and needs to be changed – is

be yielded. Hasn’t it happened to you before?

cause as little useless suffering to oneself, the

part of an ongoing strategy to force us into

To be engaged in what appears to be an

approximate community and the community

submitting to a standard European taxation

otherwise dull and useless conversation in the

at large. Finally, the fourth is to understand

regime. It’s the usual game of ‘how great

present - only to realise its worth at a time of

that morality is not a shield behind which

capitalism is if it is played according to my

crisis in the future? Most of the philosophical

one occults one’s cowardice and weakness.

rules’ from our partner states, and we must

conversations I have with my unusually

It’s instead a conscious choice a potentially

admit that with Brexit, we are in a considerably

intrigued

dangerous person makes when choosing

weaker place to deal with this pressure.

However, I know that there will come a time

40

-year-old son fly over his head.

I S S U E 67

nobility.

MONEY

SOFT POWER

Within this context, I choose to spend the

a hero; I had no choice other than to share the

fend on their own, and the EU has so far failed

absolute majority of my waking time with

rest of my life with one. Both these women’s

to provide any tangible solidarity or concrete

people I deem to be seeking heroism for

existences remain a tribute to some of the

support to these countries.

themselves. Not necessarily full-fledged

values I hold dearest to my heart: strength,

heroes yet - however, those closest to me are

compassion, equanimity under duress.

JM - Malta has never had a strategic program of integration. Migrants are either

certainly individuals that voluntarily subject themselves to the burdensome pressure it

Some argue that we need to look less

an unwarranted burden or a cheap human

takes to forge heroes.

‘greedy’ as a nation. But, with so many

resource, depending on who you talk to. There

refugees and people escaping war reaching

are no real incentives for migrants to integrate

I will put one name out there - Andrew Falzon,

our shores each year, isn’t it time to think of

into Maltese society, learn the language, and

aka The Man That Gave Parkinson’s The Finger.

how to turn the migration challenge into a

understand the social contract.

The capitalisation of his nickname is a tribute

win-win opportunity? This noble endeavour,

to his boldness. A star athlete that contracted

if handled well, can go a long way to help

What would happen to the cheap person-

Parkinson’s at the age of 22, Andrew has

improve Malta’s international reputation.

hours if suddenly these people became

continued to pursue spiritual, intellectual and

Why not reclaim our age-old image as the

educated and emancipated in huge swaths?

even physical paths through which to evolve

‘Nurse of the Mediterranean’? Do you see

I’m sure migrants have the potential to drive

20 years on. In many senses, Andrew has not

Malta ever becoming a humanitarian haven?

a considerable surge in Maltese talent, but this doesn’t suit the current need for willing

survived the neurodegenerative disease; he has transcended it. As one would expect,

AF - I think of migration as a positive

and able bodies to do arduous menial work

Andrew is forced to endure endless days

opportunity. We are a nation built on migration;

for next to nothing. So, we are left with

of severe anguish to which he sometimes

all the Maltese people have come from

ghettos, burgeoning with human beings that

succumbs. It isn’t that Andrew doesn’t at

somewhere else. And that is what made our

consider themselves either unwanted or ripe

times bend when gripped by the cruel vice of

culture: we built our houses like the Arabs,

for abuse. Of course, this leads to all sorts of

persistent pain; it’s his endless struggle to

got most of our dishes from Sicily or Greece,

psychological problems ranging from drug

straighten himself out that I find worthy of my

our language is Semitic and Latin. What’s

abuse to religious fanaticism.

reverence.

happening today is not a new phenomenon.

In two hundred years, the Maltese will be the

I have long advocated for creating personal

Hours after meeting Andrew the first time,

third or fourth generation of Serbian, Polish,

development programs where individuals

he developed into a spiritual Sherpa that

Somali, or Syrian migrants. Migration is good

are incentivised to further their technical,

introduced me to my potential. I haven’t looked

and healthy, but it also needs to be addressed

linguistic and creative talents and integrate

back since. His mostly silent mentorship has

well; otherwise, it creates social strife and fear

into Maltese society. Instead, what we have

made me a far more useful human being. I’m

in the local population, and we know where

now are what many perceive to be non-

indebted to this guy.

that leads.

humans. Most of us treat them as phantoms

running behind a garbage truck or developing

There is also no doubt that my mother and

Today Europe is facing migrations challenges

scoliosis on a construction site that disappear

wife instantiate not the best national spirit but

both at its southern borders and in the East;

by sundown to the one-bedroom apartments

rather the human spirit. I was born the son of

unfortunately, countries have been left to

they share with ten friends.

Next Steps: My quest to create a national discussion about Malta’s Soft Power has been a fascinating one. I met some very influential business people, professionals, thinkers and artists. I am encouraged when I see how many opportunities we have sitting on our laps as a nation. We’re so blessed, yet no one seems to be taking the lead and orchestrating our resources towards the goal of improving our nation’s identity, especially when it comes to how we’re perceived across the world.

Having reflected on these interviews and thought about them so much, what strikes me is that it appears that Malta still has a long way to go when it comes to accepting convergent ideas and dissent from the status quo. A forma mentis still sees the rest of Europe not as a fellow partner but bizarrely as an oppressor. It seems that we still suffer from a colonial hangover; some people are still harbouring a lingering

s notion that we are

the perpetual underdogs. This line of thinking saw its origins in the 70s when the Maltese government, having fallen out with the British over their military presence on the island, often took the side of the Middle East in international fora and even toyed with the idea of ‘Arabisising’ its culture to help it secure finances from the likes of Libya, in particular. That was a very minute term in our millennial history albeit, it sometimes reemerges in intellectual chats. Go figure!

My next quest is to tackle Malta’s education system and how this essential pillar of our nation’s well-being will help us succeed in bringing Malta’s Soft Power to its full potential. I am curious about where this journey takes us – so, until next time.

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

41

PROMO

How GO Enables AirX Charter’s Strategic Connectivity AirX Charter is a growing, dynamic company in the air-chartering business, with a diverse fleet operating across the globe. As an international company, AirX offers exposure to various markets and jurisdictions.“We first shifted our mobile services to GO and then, with GO’s support, we started moving our infrastructure to the cloud,” says Marco Andrade, the company’s CTO, who’s on a mission to digitise the company.

I find it amazing how GO is constantly seeking to keep itself close to its business clients, especially when one considers that GO’s services have been and remain critical to daily operations such as ours.

42

I S S U E 67

MONEY

PROMO

Tell us about your company’s relation with GO. Our relationship with GO started back in 2017. We quickly discovered that for GO, it was never a matter of just providing a service but more about building a long-lasting relationship and growing together by being as approachable as possible.

This was crucial because for a company like AirX, having our IT platforms, cloud solutions, and cybersecurity infrastructure fully aligned to its business strategy is critical, especially as the company is eyeing further growth.

required constant management.

services we needed. Therefore,

are on call for anything that we

How have these past months

Therefore, as we looked for a

for us, GO has always been the

may require.

been?

connectivity partner, we knew

best and most natural choice for

we wanted an organisation that

our growth prospects.

Did you need specific support

Over the past months, the

could give us dependability

from GO throughout the

company has had to adjust

and reliability. Today, we are

Business clients always expect

pandemic?

to a changing market. In fact,

happy using SIP and many other

a bit more from their providers.

besides affluent single clients,

services on the cloud through

recently, our service has started

GO’s services.

Very true. We were delighted

the pandemic when we suddenly

being sought after by people

when we found out that GO this

needed to shift everything to

chartering private flights to

How, in your opinion, did GO

year had launched a dedicated

the cloud and move our teams

travel as a group – a phenomenon

differentiate itself from other

business support line – 2121 2121,

to work remotely. It was a big

amplified by COVID as people

service providers?

exclusively for business clients.

feat, but we managed to shift

An initiative like this goes a long

over 85% of employees to

want to fly ‘safer’ by avoiding

Yes, GO was beneficial during

crowded airports and planes. The

GO turned out to be the natural

way in bringing GO closer to the

remote working, enabled by GO’s

company is based in Malta, but

choice for AirX because it

business community. I find it

connectivity infrastructure and

we also have offices in the UK.

provided us with the full

amazing how GO is constantly

cloud solutions they use. This

We recently took our first step

spectrum of services we needed

seeking to keep itself close to

enabled us to transition from

into the cargo flight sector after

to expand and build a robust

its business clients, especially

in-office to remote working in a

converting an A340 from our

connectivity system. Every time

when one considers that GO’s

much smoother and seamless

already diverse fleet into a cargo

we found ourselves thinking and

services have been and remain

manner.

aircraft.

planning the implementation of

critical to daily operations such

future projects to support our

as ours. I also add that support

What’s in store for AirX’s

How does GO service AirX?

digitalisation, we would find out

is always available at the tap of a

relationship with GO in the

that GO was already offering the

button – the account executives

near future?

GO services AirX with broadband connections, mobile phones and

To date, we are delighted that GO

mobile data connections, and a

has provided us with excellent

SIP trunk with 3CX on the cloud

service and that our team was

to enable efficient connectivity

always able to remain on top

between the company’s office at

of things. Of course, having

the airport and its main offices in

everything on the cloud makes

SmartCity. Ours is a very mobile

it easier for us to manage

team, travelling frequently and

things, including the remote

always on the go. This is why they

management of devices. We are

needed connectivity solutions

now looking forward to future

on the cloud without being

collaboration with GO, especially

dependent on a system that

in GO’s 5G service proposition.

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

43

THE DEFINITIVE BOATS AND YACHTING MAGAZINE

ROLEX MIDDLE SEA RACE SPECIAL

HAND DELIVERED DIRECT TO YOUR BOAT Informative and exclusive content, high profile interviews, sailing destinations and lifestyle. Available at all marinas, affiliated businesses, Embassies, 5-star boutique/hotels and sailing clubs.

Read on bemags.com

Follow us on

PROMO

MONEY MADE EASY FOR EVERYONE

wamo contactless is a little app

or even a business premises.

Easy just got easier

Free and fast

that’s a big deal - on a mission to

POS devices are convenient,

There are so many ways wamo

The wamo app is free to download,

make everything to do with money

of course, but they are also an

can add flow to a business. In

and signing up takes under 10

accessible and easy for everyone.

initial and ongoing cost - in fees

restaurants and cafes, customers

minutes. All that’s needed to

wamo’s QR code technology

- that some businesses don’t

can scan and pay directly from

register is a selfie and an ID

means that businesses - great

want to have. As for opening

their table; at market stalls and

document. Customers can pay

news for micro and small

a bank account, that can be a

bazaars, customers can scan

using Apple Pay or Revolut, and

businesses - can be up, running

notoriously laborious process in

a sticker to pay and go without

business-to-business payments

and taking payments in minutes,

Malta. So, bypassing these more

having to scrabble for change

between wamo merchants are

at no cost. To take payments with

traditional requirements means

or cards or remember PINs.

free so that suppliers can be paid

wamo, all that’s needed is a digital

less hassle, faster growth and

Customers can scan and pay

instantly and directly at no cost.

wamo QR code (on the wamo

less expense from the outset.

as they sit, lie, or stroll around

So, what are you waiting for? Get

at hairdressers, beauty salons,

wamo and get going today.

app) or a bespoke QR code sticker placed anywhere. Customers can

Already have a POS system?

boutique hotels and shops! The

use their smartphone cameras to

No problem

possibilities are endless.

scan either the digital or stickered

Businesses that already have

QR code to pay. Payments

a POS system in place can

wamo in action

arrive in the businesses’ wamo

benefit from using wamo too.

Every payment arrives instantly

contactless account instantly,

In this case, wamo integrates

and with a notification from every

and every payment made or taken

with the system and works as a

QR code source (a business may

is viewable in the app dashboard.

dashboard where all payments

have multiple stickers in many

It’s that simple.

made and taken appear instantly

places) and any other source

- whether from a POS device, a

integrated with wamo. There’s

None of the usual obstacles

digital QR code, sticker, or bank

no ‘pending payments’ and no

need to apply

transfer. It’s all about giving

wait for processing of any kind,

Now an individual or team with

customers more ways to pay,

which means a business owner

a good idea can start business

making transactions smoother,

can know exactly how much

immediately, without needing

faster and more convenient for

money they have in real-time, at

a POS device, a bank account,

everybody.

any time.

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

www.wamo.io / scan.pay.wamo

45

C R E AT I V E E C O N O M Y

It’s all ORANGE Over the past few years, the cultural sector was living through a revival phase. Buoyed by the increased tourism flows, performances, cultural events, and music shows and events became a tourism niche. Then the pandemic hit, and the tourism sector and cultural sector came crashing to a grinding halt. JP Fabri explains.

Along with the tourism sector, the cultural and creative sectors are

most fun, often associated with culture and creativity. The creative

most affected by the current global crisis. The venue-based sectors,

economy is a long evolving concept that builds on the interplay between

including museums, performing arts, and others, are the hardest hit

human creativity and ideas and intellectual property, knowledge,

by social distancing measures. The abrupt drop in revenues puts their

and technology. Essentially, it is the knowledge-based economic

financial sustainability at risk and has resulted in reduced wage earnings

activities on which the ‘creative industries are based. The creative

and lay-offs with repercussions along the value chain of their suppliers.

industries, an essential source of both commercial and cultural value,

Cultural and creative sectors are composed mainly of micro-firms,

include advertising, architecture, arts and crafts, design, fashion, film,

non-profit organisations, and creative professionals, often operating on

video, photography, music, performing arts, publishing, research and

the margins of financial sustainability. The reduced subventions from

development, software, computer games, electronic publishing, and TV/

the private sector can prove to be catastrophic for some entities and

radio.

museums unless the Government intervenes.

With the formal announcement of the 2021 United Nations Year of The effects of the crisis will affect the production of cultural goods and

Creative Economy for Sustainable Development, the creative economy

services in the months, if not years, to come. Over the medium term,

was finally recognised as a powerful force for good, livelihoods, social

the anticipated lower levels of international tourism, drop in purchasing

cohesion, and economic development through the trade-in creative

power, and reductions of private funding for arts and culture could

goods and services. The announcement also acknowledges the role

magnify this negative trend even further. In the absence of responsive

of creative industries in supporting entrepreneurship, stimulating

public and private support, the possible downsizing of cultural and

innovation, and empowering people, including young people and

creative sectors will harm the broader society, not only in terms of jobs

women, while preserving and promoting cultural heritage and diversity.

and value-added but also on levels of innovation, citizen well-being and The sector is already an economic driver and source of innovation. The

the product offering of the Maltese islands.

cultural and creative sectors can play an essential role in innovation In the future, it will be critical to consider cultural and creative sectors

throughout the economy, especially if economic sectors are clusters

and cultural participation as a crucial economic driver in its own right

and ecosystems rather than silos. Public and private support to these

with linkages to the broader economy. The orange economy, coined

sectors is more effective when considering the strategic inter-

by British writer John Howkins, refers to everything that is developed

relationships across sub-sectors that come together in an ecosystem.

through people’s creativity and inspiration that becomes a good or

For example, the relationship between the creative sectors and the

service. It covers everything from a toy to a play, including the most

educational system will likely be further reinforced by accelerating

scientific aspects of R+D. Why orange? Orange has been historically

digitalisation processes in both spheres. This strengthened relationship

tied to youth and happiness. Many consider it the colour that is the

will probably generate essential knowledge and technology transfers

46

I S S U E 67

MONEY

C R E AT I V E E C O N O M Y

...the possible downsizing of cultural and creative sectors will harm the broader society, not only in terms of jobs and value-added but also on levels of innovation, citizen well-being and the product offering... across the two spheres. The strategic complementarities between the

efforts to expand the nature of cultural experiences, the digital

creative, cultural and educational sectors will be necessary to develop

training of local guides and service providers, and the creation of

new forms of digital edutainment and gamification and digital creation

digital narratives that complement traditional physical experiences.

and curation of content. Moreover, these sectors are a prime field of

With the commencement of events, Malta needs to refind and

development and experimentation of emerging technologies such as

redefine its space within this context. The orange economy needs to

augmented and enriched reality, the Internet of Things and artificial

be a holistic and integral part of our continued recovery process.

intelligence, which can complement other economic sectors, including To shape better policies, national and local governments need more

online gaming and other ICT related sectors.

evidence on the cultural and creative sector’s economic and social As the resumption of travelling and tourism continues, there is an

impact. Despite the increased awareness of culture and creativity

opportunity for new models of more sustainable cultural tourism,

for development, much can still be done to improve and mainstream

which are more niche, resilient, and less potentially more value-

across policy areas. Looking ahead, culture and the broader

adding. Here the business models would focus on longer and repeat

orange economy needs to be part of recovery strategies through

stays rather than on very high volumes of short visits. This new trend

place-based and people-based policies together with the proper

will require additional investments in tourist attractions, including

infrastructural support.

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

47

SEEDING A GREENER WORLD

GREEN BONDS

48

Looking back, we have given minimal weight or ignored how important the global environment is and how it can ultimately affect our wellbeing. Air pollution is undoubtedly one of the many focal points globally, with many projects being funded through favourable schemes by the private sector, while governments themselves are heavily investing in projects linked to achieving the environmental sustainability proposition. Jordan Portelli explains.

Nowadays, within the investment world, we

that from the gross energy consumption

have seen an abnormal growth of investment

perspective, Malta’s share in renewable

products that are aligned to ecological,

energy is only just over 8%, when compared

social, and governance (ESG) or have a clear

to the average of 18.8% of other European

strategy to achieve within the said space.

countries. Nonetheless, it seems that now, also in line with our European peers, we have

Domestically we are lagging, with recent

taken necessary steps and have a clear plan

data by the European Commission showing

to reduce emissions, in addition to concrete

I S S U E 67

MONEY

GREEN BONDS

these goals has pressured investors to

that the push towards achieving a cleaner

ensure that portfolios hold an ESG element

world continues to hold a high priority on the

in some form or another. This is clearly at the

agenda globally. Over 58% of the KPI were

expense of companies seeking funding.

attached towards reducing emissions.

First and foremost, it is essential to make a

As previously pointed out, SLB is not

clear distinction between SLB and green or

always suitable for dedicated ESG-focused

sustainable bonds. The latter is linked to a

investment portfolios. Usually, SLB be a

project, with proceeds being earmarked to a

bridge between traditional corporate bonds

project that will ultimately emerge as a green

and ESG bond issuance. They are more

or sustainable project. A practical example

flexible and dynamic than green and social

would be a company funding its wind farm

bonds; however, they have a clear drive of

project to generate energy for plants instead

achieving ESG long-term goals.

of the currently used traditional energy.

On the contrary, SLB is issued for general

Recent data shows that their popularity

corporate fundraising with no restrictions

is still low compared to the ESG space.

on proceeds, with these possibly being

However, there is clear scope for this

earmarked for non-green projects. However,

segment to grow in the coming years, with

importantly these projects would include

data showing an exponential growth to

forward-looking sustainability objectives.

$

The most exciting bit of these investments

Interestingly enough, even monetary

is that SLB has environmental, social and

politicians like the European Central Bank

governance (ESG) related key performance

have put their sights on such instruments.

indicators (KPI) in their structure. This

Indeed, SLB has, since January 2021,

implies that if a company has raised capital

became eligible for its asset purchase

through an SLB but fails to meet the pre-

program-a clear sign that there is room for

agreed KPIs throughout the tenor of the

growth for such investments in the future.

bn in

from the $

bn in

.

bond, the issuer would need to pay the penalty. Indeed, a very popular structure

Moving forward, we believe that SLB is a

that we see in newly issued SLB is the

good option in the transition towards a

step-up coupon clause. This implies that

greener and more sustainable world from an

if the issuer fails to meet the pre-agreed

investor perspective. In contrast, from an

KPIs, it must make additional payments to

issuers perspective, the embedded ESG long

the bondholders, i.e. financing costs for the

term goals give the company the ability to

issuer would increase. Usually, the step-up

possible financing at a lower rate-however

increments are 0.25% per annum, although

with strict discipline throughout the tenor

lately, we have seen issuers holding step-ups

of the bond due to the embedded step-up

of . % and .

coupon clauses.

%. One of the first movers

within the energy space to issue such bonds was Enel Spa. This Italian energy group in issued its first $ . billion five-year

Domestically, recently the Malta Stock Exchange announced that the Malta

SLB, which had a 2.65% annual coupon if the

Financial Services Authority had approved

structures to generate energy through other

company reached a target of 55% renewable

the MSE Green Market- undoubtedly a step

avenues, better known as renewable energy.

energy installed capacity by 2021. On the

in the right direction. However, the notion of

contrary, if it fails, the coupon will increase

SLB might be another option to continue the

by 0.25% until the bond matures.

path towards achieving the ESG goal, given

As governments have clear targets in place

its flexibility in terms of the use of proceeds,

to reduce emissions, over the past two years, we’ve seen a growing market for

The beauty of step-up clauses is that it

while at the same time it disciplines issuers

sustainability-linked investments, namely

disciplines issuers to comply with their KPI as

to abide by the ESG targets. Indeed, for the

sustainability linked bonds (SLB). This is

if they fail to do so the cost to service their

foreseeable future, this will continue to be

clearly in response to, as said, the urgent

debt will increase. This pressures mostly

an exciting arena within the investment

need to address global and environmental

management to ensure that sustainable

space. Locally we should not shy from such

challenges. Moreover, as time progresses,

ways of operating are being achieved.

an option and possibly enact a structure to encourage companies seeking funding to

investors’ changing mentality of sustainable investing seems to form part of the equation

The recent SLB issues, namely in 2020 and

see SLB as a flexible option in their financing

of portfolio allocation. Indeed, the increased

2021, mainly were aligned to environmental

needs. This might also be a surfing board in

awareness of the urgent need to achieve

targets, precisely air pollution, a clear sign

achieving ESG targets in a shorter period.

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

MARKETING

CREATIVES DESIGNERS ARTISTS THIS IS A CALL TO ARMS We have often been told to choose our battles wisely. Many times, this means walking away from a battle that matters. Choose this battle and choose it wisely because you and your industry have been taking the blows for too long.

Edward Muscat Azzopardi asks.

50

I S S U E 67

MONEY

MARKETING

If you’re not paid to do anything creative,

uncomfortable to me is not uncomfortable to

The best outcome for a meeting of minds

please move along. Turn the page. This one’s

everyone.

between those proposing creativity and those approving it is a piece of communication

not for you.

This is where the good creatives excel. They

that stuns your audiences for all the right

If you’re still reading, strap in for a bit of an

understand their audiences. They know who

reasons - a persuasive piece of beautiful

angry ride.

they’re speaking to and who they are leaving

communication. It ought to look great, and it

out. They refuse to dilute their messaging

ought to do the job of changing people’s minds.

How often do you see a joke on something like

to the point where it becomes familiar to

@designershumour on Instagram and feel like

absolutely everyone. Because that, by

This means that those approving the work

it totally describes an aspect of your day at

definition, is not creative.

need to be comfortable with feeling a little uncomfortable. The best creative does this.

work? The ones about being asked to design something/photograph someone/take an

So, backed by experience, fortified by intuition,

Every time you see the work presented at the

art commission in exchange for exposure. Or

equipped with years of education, driven by

Cannes Lions or the stuff that does the rounds

the ones about the seventy-eight rounds of

the desire to create beautiful and beautifully

with comments like ‘this is a brilliant piece of

changes that a client requests before they

functional communication, the creative

marketing’, you should be thinking, “that’s a

finally accept the work. And by ‘the work’, we

gets to work. This means hours or days of

brilliant collaboration between clever creative

mean a version of the original so watered down

research, sketching, writing, scribbling, finding

and brave client”.

that it looks like those painting-by-numbers

inspiration in the least likely of places, digging

sheets you buy at the Van Gogh museum gift

into ideas that have been squirrelled away

Because it takes two to win at this game, it

shop.

for this very moment. It means losing track of

takes a creative who is willing to be brave and

lunchtime and bedtime because the right way

to have the smarts it takes to produce work

I recently saw one that struck a chord. The

needs more refinement. It means taking honest

that will work, not just look good. And it takes

€500 client is the one that acts like they now

criticism from colleagues and peers and the

a client who knows to keep their personal

own your soul, feeling free to call after office

humility to act upon it.

preferences out of things and to look at the work based on its ability to work for the brand.

hours and to make unreasonable demands and that will pay your fees begrudgingly,

It also means coping with the gut-wrenching

often several months after they’re overdue.

knowledge that if it takes a hundred ideas to

A more prominent logo doesn’t make

The €50,000 client (I know this was on an

get to the right place, ninety-nine of them

communication any more effective. If you hate

international channel) is the one that sends the

must be cruelly culled. They’re your ideas,

the colour blue, it doesn’t mean it shouldn’t

payment and accepts the work.

and you get to kill them.

feature on your creative. If you’re allergic to

This got me thinking. It’s not about the size

Finally, thanks to this ineffable blend of

of the account. It is about the maturity of the

intuition and training, the careful pirouette

client. The small client hasn’t understood the

between fact and feeling, and the tango that

This is not an easy task. It takes discipline and

value of creativity, while those entrusted with

form and function so elegantly dance, the work

restraint. It takes working through the cognitive

massive accounts usually do.

is done and ready to be presented.

dissonance that good creative often puts forth.

Let’s start by a rudimentary definition of what

Presented to whom? This is where it gets

It takes away the safety net that playing safe

we could call ‘successful creative’. This isn’t

messy.

provides.

us to have a phrase that we can work with for

The recipient of your creative work is the

It does lead to greatness, though. It means that

understanding the context.

steward of the brand. They know what is

the brand will be known for its great stories.

brand-appropriate and what isn’t. But, they

No one remembers the brands that play safe. It

There is everything we are familiar with. Bread

are also humans, with a lifetime of experiences

also means you’ll encourage your creatives to

and butter. They go together, and we can all

behind them. And, more often than not, they

produce even more stunning work rather than

see how. Then there is the uncomfortable and

will not take the time to approach creativity

bludgeoning them into a permanent semi-

unfamiliar. This is the stuff we don’t like and

objectively.

coma.

take a couple of different ideas and mash them

This is inevitable. Our lives are experienced

If you’re not paid to do creative and still reading

together to retain enough familiarity for us to

subjectively. But when we’re at work,

this, you’ve noticed this one is also for you. If

see a completely new link between them. If the

we must take an amount of objectivity »

you’re reading this after the warning, it means

link is excellent, it pushes us just towards the

with us. We can’t react emotionally to

you’re curious about breaking some rules. So be

border of the uncomfortable. And the closer it

management accounts even if we want to. We

brave, be that rebel who sticks their neck out in

gets, the better the creative.

can’t respond emotionally to health and safety

the name of a good story that’s well told. Your

regulations. So, we must retain the objectivity

brand will thank you for it, and you’ll have made

But, I hear you scream. What’s familiar to

to think and act in the organisation’s best

a creative happy and fulfilled. And we’d have

me is not familiar to everyone. And what’s

interest and brand.

postponed this call to arms for another day.

cats, they could still help tell a good story.

It takes bravery and the will to fail occasionally.

meant to go into a dictionary. It’s intended for

don’t want to think about. The creative will

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

51

DESIGN

CHANGING SPACES It’s a new buzzing place on everyone’s lips; the Valletta Design Cluster (VDC) within the Valletta Cultural Agency — a legacy project of Valletta 2018, European Capital of Culture — is a community space for cultural and creative practice. Dayna Camilleri Clarke speaks to Caldon Mercieca, VDC manager.

Caldon Mercieca has been coordinating the work on the Valletta VDC since its earliest stages. Caldon holds a Master’s Degree in Philosophy from the University of Malta. In addition, he contributes to courses on policy and critical perspectives relating to artistic practice and culture under several faculties and institutes in the Humanities.

For those not in the know, what is the

has a significant impact on its neighbourhood

Valletta Design Cluster?

and residents, regular city users and visitors.

By creating a new roof garden designed by

The VDC within the Valletta Cultural Agency is

Tetsuo Kondo Architects, overlaying the whole

a community space for cultural and creative

building, the VDC provides the community

practice situated in the renovated Old Abattoir

with a freely accessible public space and

(Il-Biċċerija l-Antika) in Valletta. The project

a green area within the highly urbanised

supports design and entrepreneurship having

World Heritage context of Valletta. Thanks

a positive social impact, taking collaborative

to its unique design, the garden is one of the

creative approaches as the key to achieving

winners of the ‘City Landscape’ category of

benefits for individuals, communities, and

the international contest Premio – Concorso

society.

“City Brand & Tourism Landscape Award” by Paysage Topscape.

Who designed it?

How did this project come to light?

The major works to convert the Old Abattoir site into the VDC took off in

52

under Perit

The regeneration of the Old Abattoir has

Amanda Degiovanni within the Restoration

been on paper since the early days of

Directorate and has been part-financed by

preparations for Valletta 2018. The project

the European Regional Development Fund.

was the brainchild of Valletta Cultural Agency

This was a major urban repurposing project in

chairman Jason Micallef, then chairman of the

Valletta as a legacy project of Valletta 2018. It

Valletta 2018 Foundation. He saw the potential

I S S U E 67

MONEY

DESIGN

of the space, which had been neglected for

Membership Scheme are open, and evaluation

The 2022 calendar is packed to the brim

over

continues.

with the Wiki Loves Folklore international

years. His idea was to create the first

incubator for design and creativity on the

photographic contest from February to March,

island. Mr Micallef describes the building as a

What is the members’ strand and studio-

design workshops, the Design4Innovation

gem in the heart of the city – a unique space

based strand?

Malta meeting and more exciting projects.

where the community and people can meet.

The main facilities for cultural and creative

How do you fit in line with the sustainable

What will it bring to the local community,

practitioners are accessible via a membership

development goals of the UN?

and is it open for international artists too?

scheme that runs in two strands: a regular member’s strand and a studio-based members’

The VDC builds mainly on the 11th UN goal

The VDC offers affordable spaces for artists

strand. Both are open to organisations having

for sustainable development: to make cities

and design-related start-ups. At the same

a valid legal status as a Voluntary Organisation

and human settlements inclusive, resilient,

time, the ‘Artists in Residence’ programme

or registered Non-Governmental Organisation;

and sustainable. Apart from creating and

invites international artists to be lodged at the

active in a field related to design and

implementing a custom environmental policy

apartments within the VDC.

engagement in the cultural and social sphere,

for cultural events, the VDC is the critical

and engaging with community members in

component of the Valletta Cultural Agency’s

Valletta or on a national or international level.

strategy to promote sustainability. Through

How is it different from other local art

its roof garden, it introduces a new green lung

spaces?

Studio-based membership is open to

in this neighbourhood. The garden features

Spanning over 3,212 square metres, the

organisations employing at least two people.

small shrubs and trees of mostly local or

Cluster offers

This membership strand is also available to

Mediterranean origin, reducing the need for

for prototyping; two international project labs,

NGOs, enterprises, and eligible individuals,

excessive watering, further mitigated by using

a conference hall; and food space, including

according to the membership criteria

two rain-fed large water cisterns under the

a nine-station training kitchen, among other

published on https://www.vca.gov.mt/en/

building. In addition, the green roof provides

areas. In addition, the VDC hosts artistic

valletta-design-cluster/become-a-member.

an excellent opportunity to disseminate this

studios; tools and machines

practice to other areas, extending the benefits

activity that brings people together in one hub.

How has the pandemic affected the VDC? What has been the public reaction to date?

beyond the immediate neighbourhood.

What type of events/exhibitions have you held so far, and what’s on the cards?

The greenery on the roof helps keep the temperature stable inside the rooms

The public reaction has been very positive and overwhelming in some cases, with

While the pandemic has altered the way

underneath, making the space less dependent

membership applications pouring in. Several

people meet, this has in no way stopped the

on artificial cooling and heating throughout

designs and fashion photoshoots have taken

operations of the VDC. While social distancing

the year. A glass canopy overlooking the

place while television programmes are being

measures have been adopted, the space

central courtyard of the Cluster has in-

filmed on site. In addition, the Travellers, a local

has been buzzing with talks, discussions,

built photovoltaic (PV) cells that generate

band, have recorded their ‘Valletta Rooftop

workshops and rehearsals both on-site

electricity and reduce the Cluster’s

Sessions’, released online. Applications for the

and online.

dependence on fossil fuel energy. Rainwater is collected in reservoirs underneath the building and is then used to water the garden.

The whole project can be seen as a largescale upcycling exercise, including intensive recycling of several structural features and building material found on-site, converting this into a space that can accommodate social and cultural activity without the need to consume precious new land on the peripheries of Malta’s towns and villages.

How can people support VCA? The VCA encourages the public to actively engage in its projects and events while businesses can support the arts and culture by sponsoring events. For more information, visit vca.gov.mt and the Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/vallettaculturalagency or send an email to info@vca.gov.mt.

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

53

PROMO

GET YOUR PROJECT’S CREATIVE JUICES FLOWING Whether gazing out across the savannah or next to street art in a vibrant city, we are inspired by the world around us.

What’s distinctive about humans

world, create spaces, and leave

making, gardening, cooking, and

and anything else their minds

is that we can imagine something

behind a footprint that will always

anything else you can imagine to

could fathom. Technologists find

and then make it real. Harnessing

remind the next generation of

express something we feel inside

creative ways, every single day, to

the latest findings in evolution,

who we are. We want to be seen,

through a distinct medium.

solve the next biggest challenge.

biology, and archaeology, new

to be heard and most of all, to

synthesis shows that creativity

be remembered.

Our reality has become defined

and cooperation have been the

In this world, designers, as well

by the digital. However, very few

as technologists, have come to

of us still write on paper, read, or

great drivers of human progress.

Creativity is what makes us so

flourish. Artists can now draw

even speak in person. We have

As people, we seek to express

unique as a species. So many of

on digital surfaces and create

come to face a situation wherein

ourselves, give something to the

us turn to music, art, writing, film-

designs, drawings, patterns,

the human had to adapt to the

54

I S S U E 67

MONEY

PROMO

ever-changing world around him

stone. We want our team to be

once again.

creative, happy, hard-working, and collaborative. We strive to

“At Rocksteady, we have a

make employees feel at home

commonly shared belief that

and appreciated, and we’ve found

designers and technologists are

that this is a crucial element for

the rock stars of the 21st century.”

keeping people engaged and the work they create remains of the

We try to find a balance between

uppermost quality.

the digital and the real, bringing the pen and paperback,

“Crashing through the fine line

handwriting to-do lists, ideas,

between strategy, design, user

goals and even our dreams, all the

experience and technology.”

while making the best use of what

technology brings today – Yes,

We are a creative-minded, human-

the best of both worlds. Human

centred, tech-savvy digital

interaction is also an essential

agency that creates innovative

part of our roles. It allows us room

ideas through building brands,

for pitching ideas verbally and to

products, and experiences. Our

grow, change or alter those ideas

unique blend of expertise and

using physical conversation.

experiences across the world of technology, creativity, and

Being a part of Rocksteady means

marketing enables us to create

that you will always have a voice!

strategies and campaigns that

Our team is not the biggest, but

genuinely transform brands and

we pride ourselves on the fact

organisations, open possibilities,

that every person can bring

inspire audiences, attract

countless brilliant ideas to the

customers, and ultimately

table. We listen, we think, and

generate sales.

then we act.

Founded in 2015, Rocksteady is We’ve all heard people say that

a Digital Agency that focuses

sometimes, as companies grow,

on producing integrated,

communication becomes less

transformational strategies and

transparent, which might cause

experiences across the entire

ideas to get lost along the way.

digital space. Our approach is

a vibrant city, or even at home,

precisely as it differentiates us

Therefore, we always make

data-led and 100% audience-

witnessing something ordinary

from other companies. People

everyone feel like their ideas are

focused, allowing us to solve

but managing to find the beauty

always come first at Rocksteady.

essential and want to hear them.

problems in the most impactful

in it, that is where we get the love

Simply because it is ingrained in

In addition, we always make sure

and measurably effective way.

and passion for our work.

our mindsets, and it is how we’ve

our environment is a collaborative

At Rocksteady, we focus on

As a company, we offer our team

to operate. Inspiration comes

one, not by choice but by nature.

producing as much creativity

a state-of-the-art office with

easier when everyone on your

to our work as possible. From

ample outdoor terrace space and

team is in a good mood. It allows

Our company culture at

corporate branding to rhinos in

promote a good work-life balance

us to find inspiration in the

Rocksteady is engraved in

spaceships and everything in

and working environment. This

most unlikely places, simply

between, we make sure to get

gives employees the freedom to

because it’s coming from the

your project’s creative juices

make their schedule and work

way we see the world and the

flowing. We count on our creativity

at their own pace towards our

way we feel inside – indeed

to help deliver the best possible

targets, increasing productivity,

something we would always like

end-product to our clients.

engagement, loyalty, and overall

to be remembered for.

always wanted Rocksteady

that each team member feels that

happiness. All of which set a good We look at everything for

foundation for better ideas and a

We bring you the extraordinary

inspiration, from the smallest

more productive company.

story of the most exciting brand of all time.

of things to the biggest ones.

MONEY

Whether it’s gazing out across the

We believe that working hard

savannah or next to street art in

to keep our company culture

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

www.rocksteady.mt

55

Designer Luke Azzopardi

Photographer Marvin Grech

Model Bojana @ Models M

Stylist Peter Carbonaro

Make-up Artist Danilo Monforte

Shot on location at Balal Stables | All items by Luke Azzopardi

FA SHION

NIKE Space hippie 04 stretch-knit sneakers

WACKO MARIA

€140

+ Tim Lehi camp-collar printed woven shirt €620

AUTUMN APPAREL Autumn doesn’t need to be a browner shade of brown.

MONEY welcomes the new season with a show of delectable fashion pieces.

All items available from mrporter.com

KITON Colour-block cashmere rollneck sweater €2,210

MONCLER Cuvellier quilted

BERLUTI

shell down jacket

Scritto leather backpack €2,650

€

64

I S S U E 67

MONEY

FA SHION

GUCCI Logo-print cotton-jersey hoodie €

GUCCI Keveh logo-detailed webbing-trimmed two-tone leather loafers €

TOM FORD Shelton slim-fit brushed cashmere-twill blazer €3,860

NEIGHBORHOOD Logo-print cotton-jersey t-shirt €

ROLEX Datejust 36 mm, Oyster steel and Everose gold €11,100 / elcol.com

MONEY

T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N

65

NEWS

LEADERS for CHANGE The 2021 JCI Malta National

session on ‘How leaders start their

fewer opportunities to relax and

– and how to recognise if you are

Convention - a two-day

day’ focusing on the importance

be aware of how our words and

one of the difficult people!

conference that offers talks,

of mental and physical health

actions affect both our lives

training sessions, public speaking

in people’s daily lives. This will

and the lives of those whom we

2021 National President and

opportunities, and a healthy dose

be followed by the first keynote

interact with.

the main organiser behind the

of fun - will be based on the year’s

speech of the convention by

theme ‘Leaders for Change’ and

international motivational speaker

The second keynote speech

“The whole team behind the

held on the 30th and 31st October

from the USA, Jay Johnson,

of the day will be delivered by

National Convention is super

at The Notch business centre in

on ‘The Power of Being Open

the renowned local speaker,

excited to be bringing to the table

San Ġwann.

to Change’. After that, a panel

Julian Azzopardi, CEO of UP

a varied conference, full to the

session titled ‘When Sh*t Hits

Performance Coaching, as he

brim with knowledge, inspiration,

2021 National President and

the Fan’ will regale the public

tackles the topic of ‘If not me,

opportunities, recognition and

the main organiser behind the

with real-life experiences from

who? Your actions matter’. With

pure fun.”

convention, Nicole Borg, said:

people who failed before they

seven billion people inhabiting

“This year we have been focusing

succeeded; they’ll speak about

the earth, the importance of the

The JCI Malta National

on giving our members the

their struggles, the sleepless

action of a single person cannot

Convention is open to the public.

necessary tools to be true leaders

nights, the doubts, and eventually

be underestimated – added

Registration for the convention

of change through a variety of

the climax and satisfaction of

together, seven billion individual

is open online on jci.org.mt/

initiatives. After a long period of

success.

actions could have tremendous

national-convention, and there

life-changing consequences.

are different pricing tiers for

convention, Nicole Borg, said:

not fully coming together due

members, non-members, and

to the pandemic, the National

The second international

Convention will serve as a hotspot

speaker for the conference,

The convention’s second day

JCI partners. The JCI Malta

for all our members, partners,

Keira Keogh from Ireland, will talk

will include another keynote

National Convention is sponsored

supporters and those young

about emotional intelligence,

speech on the importance

by Smart Studios, The Notch,

people interested in leadership.”

asking ‘Where has our empathy

of reconnecting with people

Urban Valley Resort, Content for

gone?’ This topic is extremely

following the imposed distance

Success, The Concept Stadium

Hosting an eclectic group of

prevalent in our lives that seem to

due to the pandemic that saw a

and supported by Veonio and

people with different backgrounds

constantly get busier, especially

spike in mental health issues and

Malta Tourism Authority.

and experiences but who are all

as technology becomes more

social problems like loneliness.

Entities that are interested in

committed to the importance

ingrained in our daily routine

Jay Johnson will deliver what is

sponsoring the convention are

of honing their leadership skills,

(sometimes overtaking human

sure to be a rousing session on

invited to contact JCI Malta for

the convention will kick off with a

interaction), leaving us with

how to deal with difficult people

further information.

66

I S S U E 67

MONEY

bloom@bloomcreative.com.mt

We build remarkable brands.

To view a selection of our best work, visit bloomcreative.com.mt