EBM Magazine #08 by NEXT Magazine

BUSINESS & LIFEST YLE

N ° 0 8 / S P R I N G 2 019

N°08 — EBM M AGA ZINE — 1

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COVER STORY

BEHIND THE SCENES

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Inspiration is the theme for this issue! Inspiration to be better at your job, to find ways to destress, to follow your dreams, and to create those dreams in the first place, as well as inspiration to be the person you want to be. No better time to inspire readers than in spring! What do you say?

EBM MAGAZINE EBM N°08 / SPR ING 2019

We start with a great article about Lahcene, CEO of ComeOn! Gaming, who talks about his activities outside of work that help him to relax and unwind. Followed by Joanna Delia, the one woman

BUSINESS & LIFEST YLE

N ° 0 8 / S P R I N G 2 0 19

to be inspired by when it comes to starting your own business. Joanna is also extremely passionate about art. I personally believe that art makes you grow as a person, and while you learn to understand it, it works wonders for your peace and sanity. Nothing is more eye pleasing than stunning architecture, with incredible balance of lines, colour and textures (the recipe for any successful art piece) ... you will find all that in the fine article about house in London built by Gianni Botsford. Gorgeous inside and out, Justine Pergola talks to us about her life inspirations in her beautiful interview written by Giselle (our amazing in-house writer, with whom I never manage to have a phone conversation which is less than 30 mins long). Our travel section features beautiful places that you will want to visit immediately, closer than usual this time - Amalfi. If you don’t get inspired by those images, you really must be dead inside! Martin Pettersson gives us great insight into such a colourful getaway. Two incredible women talk about their passions and things you didn’t know about, both in

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fashion, making their dream job come true - Carina Camilleri and Stephanie Galea. I couldn’t be

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more thrilled to have their interviews in this issue. We also got to speak to amazing, hilarious and

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sweetest Chucky Bartolo. With photography by Kris Micallef and make-up by Gia Maria Waits, I say we did a fine job with a 6-hour long photo shoot and the result speaks for itself! Everyone had so

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much fun, it was quite an evening! Mind you - not one single shoot in this issue was boring! To keep you updated with the business side of things on the island we have great reads on affiliate start-ups

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in gaming and a very interesting crypto read.

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enjoy reading all the stories

On the events side - we talk to Debbie about a visually stunning event EBM had organised for Suprnation. Photos don’t get to show how phenomenal it looked. An inspiration issue would be nothing without some good stuff to read about sports; it is a new year after all and you gotta’ start on your summer body now, now, now, since summer in Malta starts a bit early, but make sure you

For sales contact Martin Petterson

do it properly – Matthew Camilleri will let you know how to avoid typical injuries in the couple of

 sales@ebmmagazine.com

sports we picked for this issue. For any other enquires We cannot go to print without a fantastic bunch of recipes, and in this issue, since we are also

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starting to work out, we chose some very healthy ones, which will inspire you to watch what you eat and will show you that healthy food can be incredibly yummy too! We top it up with an alkaline water recipe. Yes, you heard it right. Recipe!  hello@ebmmagazine.com

All this and so much more… but I will have to leave the last couple of things for you to discover

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yourselves. After all, can’t do all the work for you, but please, enjoy it!

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Editorial Design by Bloom Creative

Julia Boikova Editor

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CONTENTS LAHCENE MERZOUG Discovering the perfect ingredients for true success, Lahcene maps out his exciting career journey from his homeland in Sweden to tiny Malta.

18 FROM AESTHETIC SURGERY TO CONTEMPORARY ART… MEET THE ENCHANTING DR JOANNA DELIA We meet with Joanna at her house in Valletta which is not only home to her family, but also houses her fabulous art collection, in a bid to better understand her passionate take on life, career and love of art in all its genres…

24 THE EXTRAORDINARY PLAY OF LIGHT AND SHADOW An 1840s brick townhouse acquired by a client in London’s hip Notting Hill, hidden in the back of a row of Victorian villas, was the original building for the Architect Gianni Botsford’s project aptly named House in a Garden. The journey so far.

30 THE NEW SPIRIT OF DISCOVERY Breitling has redesigned its Superocean Héritage line, dedicated to modern-day explorers.

34 DEMYSTIFYING THE MYTH: JUSTINE PERGOLA UNFILTERED Meet the fascinating Justine Pergola, whose vision and infinite passion for her heritage has elevated Palazzo Parisio to the unprecedented success story it is today.

68 SUPRNATION

Martin Pettersson explores the exotic gem and the hedonistic lifestyle associated with the picturesque Amalfi Coast.

The launch of SuprNation’s latest casino game, Duelz is the latest to undergo the Ambassadör Events treatment, and boy, what a night that was! Here, Ambassadör Events’s feisty Debbie Cooper tracks the journey…

CARINA

SPORTS: AN EXPERT’S GUIDE TO THE BEST TIPS AND ADVICE

LIVING LA DOLCE VITA

Life as I know it: up close and personal with style guru Carina Camilleri.

52 STEPHANIE GALEA Photographer in conversation.

58 A GLIMPSE INTO THE DAZZLING WORLD OF CHUCKY BARTOLO In the glamorous world of drag queens, Chucky Bartolo aka Tolqueen is up there with the best of them.

65 THE SEO AFFILIATE INDUSTRY IN 2019 Two of the buzzwords in iGaming in recent years have been affiliates and SEO. Dilanti Media’s Valentin Alsen breaks them down for us.

66 BLOCKCHAIN MARKET PREDICTIONS Attempting to predict the future is a fool's errand. Attempting to predict the future in a sector as volatile as the blockchain space is lunacy.

Sports is the embodiment of hard work and dedication. With the help of Matthew Camilleri we delve into two popular disciplines and their effects on our bodies…

78 HANNA BRIFFA Get to know the incredible foodist and mum.

82 DRINK YOUR WAY TO BETTER HEALTH The benefits of alkaline water.

84 THE ART OF FLIPPING THE BIRD Raising a middle finger or flipping the bird, as it’s more commonly known, has become part of our daily narrative.

86 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS The hottest events in March, April and May!

FOR EWOR D

Early in 2013, Martin identified the need for an innovative local events’ company and in April of the same year, EBM was born. Soon after, I joined forces with Martin and we formally started Ambassadör Events together - since then we have never looked back. We have a host of projects within our company. Not that many people know, but we have seven different brands within the company, and a lot of different projects going on within each brand. In total we are nine full time employees, plus another ten or so people who are actively working with the company. We have mainly four different types of projects. B2C

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(EBM), B2B (corporate events), Marketing (EBM Magazine) & Key Projects

Gzira

(Showers, iGaming Idol, venuesinmalta.com).

DR JUICE · THE GRASSY HOPPER · THE LADYBIRD · WHITE SHEEP

We believe that it’s the fairy dust that makes the events stand out and we try to encourage the team to break barriers and think outside the box. Boasting more than 500+ successful events to date, I believe that going

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the extra mile in the way we operate, is the reason why people tend to

PALAZZO PARISIO

like what we do, including this very publication, which has become a benchmark for similar publications on the island. Salina And now, Spring is upon us, which in my opinion, is the best time of

SALINI RESORT

the year with all the happy feelings that come with the new season. We have been hard at work during the last three months to ensure that EBM Magazine Vol.8 is one of our best editions yet, featuring one

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of my favourite human beings on this planet, Lahcene Merzough, CEO

CAFÉ CUBA · CHARLES GRECH ·

of ComeOn!, who is a great example of a down to earth and empathic

COMPASS LOUNGE · DR JUICE ·

person despite his hard exterior and impressive title. Lahcene inspires

FREEMYME · GIORGIO’S CAFETERIA ·

those around him by breaking down the misconception that it’s cool to be

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macho, and instead treats his peers with respect, love and compassion,

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great qualities of a true leader. I am proud to call him my friend.

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Happy reading! St Julian's CAVALIERI HOTEL · CRUST · DR JUICE · FAT LOUIE'S · HUSH RESTAURANT · INTERCONTINENTAL · NEW YORK BEST · PIPPA TOLEDO · ROCKSALT · TIFFANY · U BISTROT · VIVALDI HOTEL · WESTIN DRAGONARA

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Martin Pettersson

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N°08 — EBM M AGA ZINE — 7

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COVER STORY

Discovering the perfect ingredients for true success Words by Giselle Scicluna Photography by Kris Micallef

After a period of almost twenty years spent as an entrepreneur back in his native Stockholm, Lahcene Merzoug, CEO of iGaming Operator ComeOn! decided without a lot of ceremony to up sticks, and together with his fiancée and a couple of friends move to Malta. That was more than five years ago… Lahcene maps out his exciting career journey from his homeland in Sweden to tiny Malta. Here, we found out how he did it… ›

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COVER STORY

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COVER STORY

First things first. Who is Lahcene Merzoug? “I would say that I like contrasts,” Lahcene muses, “people who know me well would probably say that I like to be in control in my everyday life. But as a contrast I have skydived and travelled to random places, with no plans other than to just explore. In situations like that, I let go of my control and let chance guide me. Travel in particular is something I appreciate a lot, discovering new cultures and trying out new cuisines. That’s actually one of the reasons, after I sold my company some 5 or 6 years ago, I decided in just a few days to uproot my life in Stockholm and move to Malta.” Is this what makes Lahcene tick? The quest to discover the unknown and unchallenged? “I really thrive on challenges, they might be difficult and sometimes even scary, but challenges push me to move outside my comfort zone and to evolve. That gives me a lot of new energy. Therefore, I would not enjoy monotonous work, and this is also why I like the iGaming industry so much. No one day looks like another; we are constantly forced to adapt and change to stay ahead. That, for me, is extremely stimulating,” he explains. Successfully running a company in such a competitive environment as the gaming sector requires great leadership skills; what does great leadership means for Lahcene? “I practice what I consider as modern leadership and I like to work with ‘soft values’. It is a leadership approach that is based on people and engagement, both with customers, shareholders, society, and employees. Things like creating a good working environment, making your employees feel safe and appreciated, while at the same time a big focus is placed on good communications with clear goals,” he says, “if we look around the world, many companies that are at the absolute forefront of their respective industries also excel in this. One of the most important tasks for managers is to give their team members the right tools and the best conditions possible so they are able to fulfil their tasks. I believe that a manager needs to get to know every one of their team-members, understanding that everyone is different, with different abilities, strengths and weaknesses, as well as different goals and things that motivate them. It’s all about finding a balance between ‘soft-values’ and clear guidance. Colleagues who enjoy their workplace become more creative and productive at the same time, as they feel that they are a valued part of the company.” In the same vein Lahcene continues, “One of ComeOn!’s value words is actually ‘run together’, with which we mean that you are working within a family of brilliant people and that you should really use that to your best advantage. Include your colleagues, inspire and share your learnings! A strong and self-confident leader doesn’t need to garner respect by fear ›

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COVER STORY

or extreme hierarchies, something that is

cover bigger parts of the markets we operate

unfortunately too common. Thankfully now,

in, while at the same time we create relevant

the old, traditional management styles are

and authentic experiences to a lot of different

being overtaken by a new leadership mindset.

player segments. Instead of trying to appeal to everyone with one brand, we can create

“That said, there will always be situations

stronger relations with many different target

where a firmer leadership is required, but it

audiences. It is well known that online casino

should never be the norm.”

customers often rotate between a few different operators. What operators they choose depends

ComeOn! is making forays in the industry;

on a lot of factors, but we know that the brand

how is it different to other gaming companies?

itself plays a big role. Often players can identify

“First of all, I would say: our employees, we

themselves with many of our brands, therefore

have so many talents under one roof. I actually

we cover bigger parts of one market. We can

dare say that no other company in our industry

also maintain focus on brand and our brand-

manages to get so many things done with so

feeling throughout in everything, from what

few people as we do. ComeOn! is also a very

you see on the site or in our commercials,

entrepreneurial company, which suits me very

to the tonality of our mail and how our VIP

well; we move fast, and we focus on value

agents talk to our customers. This is something

generating projects. We are a lean organization

that I think is very hard when you, perhaps,

with incredible people who work hands-on to

have only one brand that can please so many

make things happen. This gives us an edge

different customer groups or markets. For us,

when opportunities arise. But our success is

it’s all about staying consistent and relevant!”

also due to our brands. ComeOn! is a global iGaming company operating over 20 brands

On a more personal note… I would imagine

across multiple markets, so no matter what

that in your role as CEO, stress comes with the

type of player you are, or what type of brands

territory. How do you de-stress and unwind?

you like, you can always find something that

And how important is this for you? “It surely

speaks to you in the ComeOn! portfolio,”

does, and I like positive-stress, it keeps me

Lahcene enthuses.

on edge. I think it’s important to find those moments in life that enable you to re-charge

So, talk us through the company’s multi-

your batteries. This obviously differs a lot from

brand strategy… Lahcene says, “We are

person to another, and for me, it has a lot to do

experts at launching and developing brands

with physical and mental health. I´m turning

and our multiband-strategy allows us to

40 this year but don’t feel like I’m a day older ›

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COVER STORY

than 30. My goal is and has always been ‘to be

and there are a lot of them in Malta, I go to our

the strongest version of myself’. So, except for

rooftop terrace. Meditation for me is all about

spending time with my fiancée and friends,

clearing my head. Those 10-20 minutes in the

I train a lot, meditate and read,” Lahcene

morning really make a difference, they increase

explains.

my focus and I'm more present in the moment, throughout the day,” he says with a smile. And

So, how would you describe your training

what does Lahcene’s reading material consist

regime? “The last few years have mostly been

of? “I read everything from self-improvement

about powerlifting, where I can set my own

books to sci-fi. Nowadays, it’s actually more

times and compete with myself on a weekly

audiobooks, since I can listen when I'm out

basis. I go to Fort Fitness which is close to

walking or running. Still it’s hard to beat sitting

where I live and it’s a great gym with a separate

on a comfortable sofa with a good old book.”

area for CrossFit and powerlifting.” Lahcene

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says that he meditates a lot; how does this

As a successful entrepreneur what do you

work? “I try to meditate every day, normally

think would be the best advice for anyone

in the mornings. During the warmer months,

who’s interested in launching their own

COVER STORY

business/company? “When I started out my

In the industry we operate in, slow decision

first seem unrelated to your businesses. As a

entrepreneurial career, and for many years

makers can create bottlenecks. While speed is

result, you may sense change earlier and make

after, we were a group of friends who met on

important, it’s also essential to work actively to

strategic moves to take advantage of it.

a regular basis and talked about challenges in

solicit multiple points of views, similar to what

our companies, business plans for upcoming

I did with my group of friends. So always ask

“It’s also about being adaptable when it comes

start-ups or innovations. It was similar to

yourself: What’s the impact if I get this wrong

to setbacks, because they will happen.

the popular TV show ‘Dragons’ Den’ where

and how much will it hold things up if I delay

we had to come really well prepared to be

even further?” he states.

able to answer all the hard questions. It

“Share and own your failures, not only your successes. Analyze what happened, where

forced us all to stay ahead of the curve and

Concluding on a theme which is clearly close

and why, because accountability is good for

at the same time we learnt different ways of

to his heart, Lahcene adds, “Lastly, I would

a company. Not to point blame, but for higher

analyzing businesses. So, I believe the best

say adapting proactively is important for

learnings.”

advice for anyone embarking on this journey

businesses to adjust to a rapidly changing

is to surround yourself with strong teams

environment. Make it a habit to scan your

And if Lahcene’s history of building and

and talented people. I would also say that

networks, diverse sources of data and try to

running companies is anything to go by, that is

making decisions with speed is important.

find relevance in information that may at

a true recipe for unqualified success...

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From aesthetic surgery to contemporary art… Meet the enchanting Dr Joanna Delia Words by Giselle Scicluna // Photography by Matt Thomson

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There is something exquisitely bohemian about Dr Joanna Delia; from her dark, flowing tresses to her perfect, oval face, highly reminiscent of a magnificent, fiery gypsy. But there is more, a lot, lot more to Joanna, one of the most sought-after aesthetic physicians on the island as well as a greatly respected art aficionado in cultural circles. We meet with Joanna at her lush, eclectic house in Valletta which is not only home to her family, but also houses her fabulous art collection, in a bid to better understand her passionate take on life, career and love of art in all its genres…

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Initially starting out as a doctor in a hospital

Joanna also prides herself on her constant

environment, Joanna soon realised that her

quest to be the best at what she does, striving

dream of becoming a surgeon, could not be

to keep on top of the innovative advances in

realised, “I simply couldn’t detach myself

her field through constant research, training

from all the pain and suffering. I have great

and participation in the most prestigious med-

respect for my colleagues who endure all this

aesthetic conferences in the world.

and remain efficient and dedicated. I couldn’t picture myself doing that for forty years and

In a post-Instagram world, where pressure

remain unscathed. A friend suggested I go

to conform to the ‘ideal’ is an everyday

into aesthetics, which at the time did not quite

occurrence, how does she react to the bad press

reconcile with my wanting to ‘save the world’,

that some horror stories regarding aesthetic

but a call for part-time work in an aesthetics

procedures elicit? “These horror stories, as

clinic came up and against my better judgement

you call them, are definitely not the norm. Of

I applied,” she reminisces.

course, some people do want these excessive procedures

which

transform

them

into

“And then, wow! I had found my calling and

someone else’s caricature – something which I

I simply loved the work. I was still ‘saving the

am totally against. Most clients simply want to

world’ in a way, helping people deal with issues

deal with minor issues which are undermining

which go beyond their physical health. When

their self-confidence, which when treated

you manage to make someone feel amazing

only enhance their natural assets,” Joanna

about themselves and you know that you have

explains.

contributed to that confidence, there simply is no feeling like it,” she smiles. Since those first

Besides being a businesswoman in her own

forays in aesthetic surgery, Joanna’s career has

right, Joanna is also a mother of two very

taken off to unprecedented levels. A self-made

young children and obviously our conversation

entrepreneur with no business background,

naturally moves on to her views about attaining

she has managed to defy the odds, set up her

a work/life balance and women’s rights today;

own med-aesthetic practice, and over the years

a subject which she admits is very close to her

see her beloved clinic go from strength to

heart. She is adamant that the perfect balance

strength, garnering a reputation for being one

can only be obtained if men took their domestic

of the best in the sector.

and parental roles seriously. “Of course, for a woman to be successful, she has to have

To what does she attest this success to? “It all

a partner who is willing to let her flourish

boils down to having a great relationship with

without being bogged down constantly by the

your client. You must really know their fears

humdrum of everyday life. A woman cannot

and insecurities, what they want to achieve

build a successful career or business and be

and guiding them towards the best procedures

the primary care-giver all of the time. It just

for their needs. Communication and trust are

won’t work! This is a mindset which needs to

key. You have to bear in mind that they are

change quickly. It is shameful that you still

trusting you with their appearance… Therefore,

find women who after having had to deal with

you must also take on the role of counsellor and

a full day at work, have to go home and take

deal with their darkest anxieties,” she says.

care of the minutiae of domestic life, as well ›

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as attend to their children’s needs. This is not acceptable!” Joanna says in a more sombre tone. So, as a successful entrepreneur and more to the point as a successful woman, what advice would she give to other women who would like to embark on a similar journey? “As a woman I believe that first and foremost, you have to take a stand, put your foot down and demand to be treated the same as everyone else,” Joanna states before continuing, “then you do your research well. Create projections which are realistic and most of all find an area which you not only excel at, but an area for which there is a demand. It is counter-productive to launch a business wherein the market is already saturated with your particular product or service. This is not some fine business acumen but plain common sense. You cannot create supply where there’s no demand.” By her own admittance, Joanna is someone who needs constant challenges to keep life interesting, which leads us neatly onto her fascination with art in all its forms. Her love and intrinsic knowledge of art has recently resulted in her being appointed as the Head of the Valletta Contemporary advisory board. A role which she says brings together all the issues she feels so strongly about, “Women’s rights, integration of all cultures, migration, an end to prejudice… And what historically underlines all this? Art in all its genres. And contemporary art even more so because it is an eloquent expression of all these issues we’re grappling with.”

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But what does art actually mean for Joanna? “Art is a language, which speaks to you on so many levels. It is not a pretty thing, that’s hung on a wall for decoration, it is constantly delivering a message acting as a catalyst for discussion, exploration and discovery. And there is a huge, huge difference between art and just a painting. I have come across plenty of pieces which do nothing for me, but when I find something which I really like, then it becomes an obsession.” Our interview has well run over the allotted time, but we really need to ask Joanna one last question… How does she explain her infatuation with contemporary art? “Here in Malta we have an amazing culture of patronage of the Renaissance and Baroque period, people still buy and collect art from those periods, but I also feel strongly about supporting our living artists, because if they don’t create art, our generation will have nothing to leave for posterity and we will consequently become irrelevant. Hence,

initiatives

such

the

Valletta

Contemporary which strives to create a dialogue, a space where ideas can take root thrive are fundamental to this end. Personally, I identify mostly with contemporary art because it’s an ongoing exploration of new ways to express emotion as well as the human condition and identity,” she says as we end our interesting, thought provoking interview. Then again, with as fascinating a personality as Joanna’s you can expect nothing less…

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EXTRAORDI AND OF LIGHT THE

Words by Giselle Scicluna // Photography by Edmund Sumner

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INARY PLAY SHADOW

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An 1840s brick townhouse acquired by a client in London’s hip Notting Hill, hidden in the back of a row of Victorian villas, was the original building for an Architect Gianni Botsford project aptly named House in a Garden.

Over a period of eight years Botsford and his team transformed the nondescript building into a spectacular, partly subterranean, home topped by an impressive centrepiece; a compound-curved roof manufactured out of glue-laminated beams and topped by a further skin of copper strips. The tent like feature hinges on the play of light and shadow which surround it. Adamant that the new design gets enough natural light without obstructing neighbouring buildings, the architect worked from the ground level and below, digging down two floors to create an extraordinary family home. Despite the house being completely tucked away from view, sandwiched between two 19th-century properties and surrounded by many other existing structures, when inside, only the sky and the courtyard gardens are visible… a very private cocoon right in the middle of London. ›

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A RT / CULTUR E

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A RT / CULTUR E

At ground level the almost entirely glazed living space opens seamlessly into the private garden. This room also features a kitchen with copper cabinets, splashback and tap faucets. The underside of the bowing tent-like roof is created by criss-crossing glulam beams. The roof was prefabricated in the Dolomites before being craned into the garden. Its structure has been left exposed on its underside, forming a decorative ceiling in the glass-walled living and dining area that sits directly below. The skylight that flattens the peak of the roof, alongside the glass doors, help to keep the living area well lit. Lightwells also bring light down into the depths of the 8-metre-deep basement. A suspended wooden staircase leads down to a master bedroom suite. Here the architect has created a greenery-filled lightwell to prevent the north-facing rooms from seeming dark and dingy. Another skylight has been integrated into the base of the lightwell, to illuminate the 10-metre swimming pool that lies underneath in the lower basement. Everything inside this awe-inspiring London gem is bespoke – from the bathtubs, which are cut from chunks of marble, to cabinets and the two floating staircases (one manufactured out of timber and one out of metal) adding to the sensual quality of the interiors. But what is it like to own such an exclusive home? Here, the owner of House in a Garden gives us a small glimpse into this extraordinary metamorphosis… What was your brief to Gianni when you embarked on this project, and what was the reason you chose him as the architect for the house? “Gianni is contemporary led, incredibly detailed, and very thoughtful in his design. I relate to a lot of this.” What were the key goals in this project as a bachelor pad for you? “High design acumen, efficient use of space, plus it had to be bright, airy and spacious.” As an art lover, what is your favourite design element in this house? “The roof is really quite special and was incredibly difficult to build; only a couple of fabricators in the whole world were able to execute what was intended. The material palette is my next favourite: they are all natural, tactile, and textured.”

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THE NEW SPIRIT OF DISCOVERY Photography by Kris Micallef Model Robert Galea co-founder Mango Casino

Breitling has redesigned its Superocean Héritage line, dedicated to modern-day explorers. The result is a new face as original, pure and dynamic as ever, for this highly successful collection that is celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2017.

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DESIGN

Edwards Lowell is the official retailer of Breitling watches in Malta.

First launched in 1957, the Superocean professional diving watch – rapidly adopted by the first enthusiasts of leisure diving – has since spawned several generations of instruments boasting peerless aquatic performance. Yet Breitling has also preserved the spirit of the original model in a line named Superocean Héritage that has become one of the brand’s stellar collections, thanks to its unique and timeless look combined with cutting-edge technology. To mark the 60th anniversary of this pioneer of wide-open spaces, Breitling had reinvigorated its iconic design while maintaining its unique character. The main development took the form of a new steel bezel with an ultra-hard high-tech ceramic ring that is scratchproof and extremely shock-resistant. The elimination of the metal ring surrounding the minute circle means the bezel appears to form a seamless whole with the dial in a matching color, adorned with the original Superocean logo. The unusual shape of the hands (triangular for the hours and lozengelike for the minutes), along with the slightly cone-shaped hour-markers, reinforces ties with the 1957 model, while ensuring optimal legibility enhanced by luminescent markers. The Superocean Héritage II is interpreted in two watch sizes (42 and 46 mm) and as a 46 mm chronograph, all available in three colors: black, blue and bronze. The latter versions are available with an exclusive brand-new rubber-leather strap in the same color and enhanced by contrasting stitching. In addition to the leather, crocodile or rubber straps, all the models may be fitted with a steel mesh bracelet echoing the legendary 1957 version. ›

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In terms of performance, the Superocean

also COSC-certified, is a high-precision,

Héritage II has all the technical qualities that

reliably

have made it the perfect companion for the

endowed with a 70-hour power reserve.

robust

selfwinding

movement

finest adventures on land, at sea and in the air.

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The Superocean Héritage II Chronographe 46

Derived from the Tudor Caliber MT5612 and

houses a selfwinding chronograph movement

flaunting exclusive finishing, it represents

chronometer-certified by the COSC (Swiss

one aspect of the recent cooperation between

Official

Institute).

the two brands that are now pooling their

The Manufacture Caliber B20 powering the

expertise in the development and production

Superocean Héritage II 42 and 46 models,

of certain mechanical movements.

Chronometer

Testing

DESIGN

SUPEROCEAN HÉRITAGE II CHRONOGRAPHE 46 Movement: Breitling Caliber 13, officially chronometercertified by the COSC, selfwinding, high-frequency (28,800 vibrations/hour), 25 jewels. 1/4th of a second chronograph,

30-minute

and

12-hour

totalizers.

Calendar. Case: steel. Water- resistant to 200 m (660 ft). Screw-locked crown. Unidirectional ratcheted rotating bezel. Cambered sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides. Diameter: 46 mm. Dials: Volcano black, Mariner blue, Copperhead bronze. Straps/Bracelet: leather, crocodile leather, rubber Aero Classic or Ocean Racer, rubber- leather/Ocean Classic.

SUPEROCEAN HÉRITAGE II 42 & 46 Movement:

Manufacture

chronometer-certified

Caliber the

B20,

COSC,

officially

selfwinding,

high-frequency (28,800 vibrations/hour), 28 jewels. Over 70- hour power reserve. Calendar. Case: steel. Water-resistant to 200 m (660 ft). Screw-locked crown. Unidirectional ratcheted rotating bezel. Cambered sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides. Diameters: 42 and 46 mm. Dials: Volcano black, Gun Blue, Stratus silver, Copperhead bronze. Straps/Bracelet: leather, crocodile leather, rubber Aero Classic or Ocean Racer, rubber-leather/Ocean Classic.

The sturdy steel case with its screw-locked crown is water-resistant to 200 m (660 ft). The fluted unidirectional rotating bezel, bearing a luminescent dot at 12 o’clock, is fitted with a 120-tooth system enabling extremely accurate adjustment and very smooth rotation – whether it comes to checking a dive time or marking off various time measurements, notably in aviation. The new spirit of discovery. N°08 — EBM M AGA ZINE — 33

PEOPLE

DEMYSTIFYING THE MYTH:

JUSTINE PERGOLA

UNFILTERED

So, who is Justine Pergola? The daughter of the half-Maltese, half-English Baroness of Tabria and an Italian father, she has had quite a cosmopolitan upbringing. After boarding school in England, she became obsessed with show business. Given that her father, Umberto, was a distinguished choreographer it seemed as if forging a career

Words by Giselle Scicluna

within the industry was the most natural course for

Photography by Julia Boikova

her. London’s West End beckoned. Unfortunately,

Make-up by Gia Marie Waits

her father, who knew first hand just how much of a cutthroat industry showbusiness is, was not too

The inside of Palazzo Parisio is a treasure trove

keen on the idea. “He recognised my talent and

of immeasurable beauty – a stark contrast to

passion, but he wholeheartedly believed that due

the imposing and quite austere façade of this

to my sheltered upbringing I lacked the stamina to

historical gem. Stepping inside, one is not only

eventually make it,” she says.

awestruck by its very opulence but is instantly enveloped by a warm and welcoming vibe and

Justine believes that probably his assumption was

the kind of hospitality that is today synonymous

correct, as she freely admits to having an overly

with this glorious building. But I am not here

sensitive and emotional nature, “You have to be

to solely discuss the merits of this magnificent

really resilient to be able to cope with rejection

edifice or its standing as a top-notch event or

which is obviously part and parcel of showbusiness.

culinary venue, but to meet the fascinating Justine

It is only now that I am older that I have come out

Pergola, daughter of the formidable Baroness of

of my cocoon and toughened up – but running a

Tabria, Christiane Ramsay Scicluna, the great

business tends to do that to you,” she smiles before

granddaughter of Marquis Giuseppe Scicluna,

continuing, “I was very upset about it at the time,

whose vision and infinite passion for her heritage

but I had to shelf my dream of ever making it to a

has elevated Palazzo Parisio to the unprecedented

West End stage. That said, I was still looking for an

success story it is today. A vision, which she has

outlet for my creativity. Obviously, my parents were

unequivocally bestowed upon Justine…

drumming it into me that one day I will have to look after the business, something which seemed

The gorgeous surroundings, the carefully curated

like the polar opposite of what I wanted to do. That

objets d’arts and the luscious bijoux from the

is, until a friend suggested a hotel management

palazzo’s unique boutique, artfully displayed

school in Lausanne in Switzerland; a business

in strategic corners and which I’m told have

school that focuses solely on hospitality, an idea

been lovingly handpicked by the Baroness and

which appealed hugely to my creative side.” ›

Justine themselves, keep me company while I await Justine’s arrival. She finally does in a flurry, apologising profusely for being late. It is immediately apparent, that the woman who often appears elusive and distant in photos and interviews is nothing quite like the flesh and blood version. Justine exudes such positive vibes that it is practically impossible not to be charmed by her sheer exuberance and palpable joie de vivre. Exquisitely beautiful, soft-spoken and utterly unguarded, she settles down to what would be indeed more similar to a conversation between old friends than a straightforward Q & A. N°08 — EBM M AGA ZINE — 35

PEOPLE

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PEOPLE

heart and soul into it - she even baked the cakes for visitors herself! So, it seems that our penchant for hospitality has been in our family for generations,” Justine says with a laugh. Her mother has obviously been a huge influence on Justine. How would she describe their relationship? “We’re as different as chalk and cheese,” she giggles, “My mother is this larger-than-life, temperamental, headstrong woman while I tend to stand on the other end of the personality spectrum. She has always been an inspiration and someone who I dearly look up to. Naturally, as with every other mother and daughter, we might not always see eye to eye, but our opposing personalities ultimately complement each other. I am immensely proud of what we have managed to achieve together – Palazzo Parisio is not only a family business venture which also happens to be our heritage but is also part of our national historical legacy.” Speaking of role models, Justine cites Audrey Hepburn as her idol. Of all silver screen goddesses, why would she look up to the most understated of them all? “She had a certain grace about her which was so alluring, a way of portraying herself which screamed pure class which is indeed very rare today. Besides, her untiring work within UNICEF is legendary. I could relate to her so easily,” Justine says, “I live by the mantra that ‘less is more’; I have a very minimalist approach to style and would also love to one day emulate her work with charities. “Thankfully, in Switzerland, I seemed to have

However, I don’t think I’m very capable in this

found my calling! My family has always been

regard as I am too empathic. It would be impossible

into entertaining and I grew up watching my

for me to detach myself from having to deal with

mother and grandmother prepare lavish dinner

suffering, especially where children or animals

parties, so it felt like a seamless continuation of my

are concerned, and this would break my heart for

upbringing.

sure!”

“I also discovered a love for interior design which

By now I have established that Justine is a far cry

started me thinking that perhaps one day I could

from her portrayal of the aloof businesswoman of

launch my very own project, my own hotel. When

noble birth, as she is so often inaccurately depicted

my mother first opened Palazzo Parisio, it was a

in interviews. Laid back, witty and with a wicked

very basic undertaking, but she literally poured her

sense of humour, her unpretentious take on life ›

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PEOPLE

and relationships is a refreshing surprise. Both her strengths and weaknesses are part of her makeup she says, as she lists them all one by one; empathy, tolerance, patience and a good judge of character, but also needlessly sensitive and overly emotional, all of which serve her well in her day to day business dealings, both with her much-respected staff as well as her beloved guests. She speaks of love with candid honesty and freely admits that deep down she’s still a hopeless romantic, “Small wonder I’m still single, I still believe in knights in shining armour,” she gurgles with self-deprecating humour. “Don’t get me wrong,” she quickly points out, “I’m all for equality and yes, thank you, I can very well open my own door. But chivalry is such a beautiful thing,” she sighs wistfully. But moving on to more serious matters, our conversation inevitably turns to Palazzo Parisio, an enterprise which means more to her than just a family business venture. “It is after all our home and we cherish it as such. This is what gives Palazzo Parisio that extra edge; everything down to the last detail, be it food and service in our Luna restaurant, the décor or our extensive garden, is created and maintained with the love you’d find in a family home. Given its grandeur, it is obviously a nightmare to maintain, but our guests are always very appreciative of our efforts to be as hospitable as we can be. It is a legacy we are proud to share with local and foreign guests alike,” she says. So, what’s next on the cards for this national treasure, the epitome of opulence and hospitality? “After years of painstaking planning, we are finally extending the Luna brand to include a boutique hotel. A townhouse which sits right at the back of the palazzo garden will suit this purpose brilliantly, so an exciting, even if very stressful few months are looming on the horizon. So, watch this space…” Justine says with a conspiratorial smile. In retrospect, if she had to look back on her extraordinary life, would Justine do anything differently? “My only regret perhaps is that I should have rebelled and not listened to my father, even if I know deep down that he was only protecting his child. I should have given showbusiness a try, even if it meant heartbreak and rejection, but at least it would have put paid to a lifelong dream and I would never have to ask myself ‘What if?’” she says ruefully before brightening up in true Justine style, “However, I still love musicals, so who knows, perhaps I still got it in me…” she says as she kisses me goodbye and floats away to the serene haven of the Palazzo Parisio garden to get on with her busy day…

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Living La Dolce Vita On The Amalfi Coast

TR AVEL

Interview by Giselle Scicluna

The picturesque Amalfi coast lounges majestically between the blue sky and the

Photography by Martin Pettersson

crystalline waters of the Mediterranean. A hotspot for celebrities and bon vivants alike, its beauty has inspired generations of artists from all over the world… Martin Pettersson explores this exotic gem and the hedonistic lifestyle associated with it.

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TR AVEL

The Amalfi coast… Sailing or driving?

star and 1000-1500 euro for a 5 star. Renting a

so either you drop anchor or buy a buoy. If you

sailing boat if you are 4-6 people for instance,

are not a very experienced seaman, this might

This depends a bit on when you visit Amalfi.

actually works out cheaper than staying at a

not be so pleasant if the sea gets choppy.

In summer being on a boat is a clear winner,

hotel and you also have a boat which is a big

especially if you are a group of people.

plus when exploring the Amalfi coast.

Hotels in summer are really expensive, so be

The only drawback is that you can forget about

option. Also, the sea is rougher this time of year

prepared to pay 600-800 euro per night for a 4

staying in a harbour since it’s crazy expensive,

so staying on land is more pleasant for sure. ›

Spring and autumn hotel prices drop by 5075%, so then staying in a hotel is a much better

N°08 — EBM M AGA ZINE — 41

TR AVEL

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TR AVEL

04 If you do opt for sailing, which companies

to stay on a boat, spring and autumn is best

do you recommend, and which other general

(April-May and September-October).

tips would you suggest? Best places to eat, particularly traditional There are plenty of companies offering these

Amalfi cuisine?

services, so here Google is your best friend. We have always chartered a boat in Malta, but

The Amalfi coast has a reputation for being

this only makes sense if you really like being

very expensive, however this mainly regards

on the sea.

the cost of hotel accommodation.

It's a long stretch of sailing from Malta to

There are restaurants for all budgets and overall

Amalfi, but on the other hand there are plenty

the quality of both cheap and expensive meals

of nice stops on the way. If you charter a

is great. Seafood, pasta and pizza are I think

Previous spread:

motor yacht, you’ll reach your destination

the best dishes to eat in the region. Also make

Positano, for sure one of the

much quicker but will also be a lot more

sure to try some local wines and limoncello

most beautiful places on this

expensive. If you only want to be on the sea for

made with the famous Amalfi coast lemons.

planet.

Any hotel recommendations for those who

This spread:

prefer terra firma?

Spectacular view over Capri

from Villa San Michele.

I've always stayed on a boat, except once when

Seafood pasta at Michelin

If you are on a boat in summer or if you have a

we stayed at Villa Brunella in Capri, an amazing

starred restaurant Il Riccio.

very good budget, you can also stay in a hotel.

hotel that costs around 200 euro in low season

Terrace of restaurant Zass with

If you have a limited budget and don't want

and around 700 euro in peak season. ›

Positano in the background.

a few days on a sailing boat, the best option is to charter one in Naples. Best time to go?

N°08 — EBM M AGA ZINE — 4 3

TR AVEL

05 If you only speak English, would

top of the cliff. Also make sure to go around

language be a barrier? And anything

and explore all the alleys in Capri town,

else one should be aware of when

lots of hidden gems there. In Positano

travelling to the Amalfi coast?

everything is crazy picturesque, my favourite spot however is the Zass terrace

Speaking Italian always helps, but you can

at hotel Il San Pietro di Positano.

communicate well in English, especially at the more high-end restaurants and hotels.

Anything you’ve missed and would like

If you visit in summer make sure to book

to see next time you visit?

hotels and restaurants as early as possible since the good ones are often fully booked

I would like to explore more of the towns

way in advance. ›

around the Amalfi coast. I have only been to Capri and Positano, but there are plenty

Any must-visit locations? In Capri don't miss the beautiful Villa San Michele with breath-taking views over the sea. If you are interested in history check out Villa Jovis, once belonging to the Emperor Tiberius. It’s now a ruin but you get a sense of its scale and you also have great views from 06 4 4 — EBM M AGA ZINE — N°08

more places I am sure are worth a visit.

TR AVEL

Sunset by the pool area of the historical Capri Palace hotel.

Beautiful sunset over the bay of Marina Piccola. Legends say that this is the place where Ulysses was seduced by the sirens.

Sailing towards Panarea for a night stop before crossing over to the Amalfi coast.

08 Fantastic food at Michelin starred Zass restaurant located in the super high end Il San Pietro hotel.

N°08 — EBM M AGA ZINE — 45

FASHION

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FASHION

CARINA Life as I know it: up close and personal with style guru Carina Camilleri Words by Giselle Scicluna // Photography by Marija Grech

Carina Camilleri, or simply Carina, is a well-known personality within fashion circles. Founder of top local modelling agency Models M, she is also known for her stint on local TV conducting a popular style and fashion programme and more recently on reality show ‘Benjamin’. Here, we find out makes her tick…

N°08 — EBM M AGA ZINE — 47

FASHION

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N°08 — EBM M AGA ZINE — 49

FASHION

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FASHION

Favourite city and why?

Best habit?

London as I know exactly where to shop, especially at my

Discipline.

favourite place Dover Street Market and I have dear friends I can visit.

Hidden talent? Acting.

Biggest surprise anyone ever did for you? When we were doing 'Benjamin', our TV series, my friend

Someone you would love to have coffee with?

Peter had planned a visit to Manchester for Dale and I to go

Madonna.

and watch a football match accompanied by the TV crew. Ben was unable to come as he had just come back from

What would be the most burning question you would

abroad the previous day. While we were at the La Valette

ask her?

Lounge waiting to board the plane, I look around and saw

How are you coping with aging?

Ben, there. They had hidden the fact that he was coming all along, and he ended up coming to Manchester too. Biggest

Least favourite colour?

ever surprise!

Peach.

Favourite dessert?

What does it remind you of?

Chocolate.

Nothing. The actual word bugs me, although I love the fruit.

Best surprise you planned for someone?

Favourite memory from your childhood?

Yet to happen.

So many; playing battleship with my dad, performing for my mother, dressing up in my room using curtains and

Food you would pick if you were on deserted island that

bedspreads....

you could eat forever? Chocolate.

Favourite music artist?

Madonna.

Country you would want to live in if it could be anywhere?

Favourite girl crush?

Anywhere, where I can take my dear and close friends,

Madonna.

family and Doby with me. What’s the attraction? Spirit animal?

Her being a chameleon, she says what she wants, she is

Eagle (I did an online quiz.)

indifferent to what people think of her, her determination and her love and respect for the gay community. I see a bit

One thing missing in your life at the moment?

of her in me!

Peace and a house with land so I can adopt as many dogs as possible!

If you were a super hero who would you be (what super powers?

Have you ever felt star struck?

Weight loss super hero. No seriously, being able to heal.

Not really. Favourite style icon? Best piece of advice ever given?

Tilda Swinton.

Count to 100 backwards when something/someone is annoying me and I’m about to explode, from my mum.

What’s the one thing about her that makes you say that? Her impeccable perfect style. She is the epitome of cool.

Who is inspiring you the most right now? My sons; they handle things in such a great way. I learn so

What is the oldest item in your wardrobe and why?

much from them.

A sweater my mum owned, for obvious reasons

What makes you the proudest?

What is the best fashion advice you can give?

Being the mother of my two sons Ben and Dale, they make

Look in the mirror before you go out, if you are tugging at

me so proud!

anything, change it!

N°08 — EBM M AGA ZINE — 51

In conversation with photographer

STEPHANIE GALEA . . .

Interview by Julia Boikova

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FASHION

02 Photography was not your original vision for a career choice… how and what got you interested in pursuing this medium? Previous spread: My interest in photography actually started later in life after completing

For Vogue Italia, 2018

my degree in Chemistry at UOM. I suddenly felt like I did not want to pursue a career in science and art was always in my life one way or

This spread:

another - my mother is a painter and I had always dabbled in different

For TANK MAGAZINE, 2018

art forms as I grew up.

For Vogue Arabia, 2018

5 4 — EBM M AGA ZINE — N°08

FASHION

Whilst I figured out my next step, I enrolled in the foundation

Looking at your recent photoshoots that you shot here

Diploma in the Architecture department in Malta and

in Malta - where do you ﬁnd inspiration? Architecture,

started taking photography seriously. I worked hard on my

people, weather?

portfolio and applied to go to Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design (UAL).

I find inspiration in strong women, beautiful places, imagery and literature. I’m also inspired by my past and the

Central Saint Martins has an unrivalled reputation

environment I’ve been brought up in i.e. Malta.

of being way outside the box, producing the finest protagonists in the art and design world… tell us about

Who would you rate as your favourite photographers

your time there as a student.

and what do you believe is so special about their work?

Central Saint Martins was a great environment that allowed

I really love Viviane Sassen, Harley Weir and Jack Davidson

me to do what I wanted to do and I learned how to approach

at the moment. They create work with very interesting

photography and projects in a fine art discipline. It was very

subject matter with incredible colours, contrasts and

industry led and established artists would come and give

compositions. Their work also plays with surrealism and

great insightful talks. It’s definitely a great stepping stone

photography in a contemporary way. ›

into the arts’ world.

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FASHION

What do you believe you would be doing if you weren’t

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time and do

a photographer? Do you think you would still be doing

you think that photography will still feature greatly in

something creative?

your life? And what do you believe would be the biggest achievement in photography for you?

I’ve always been very interested in Architecture and Design so that’s what I would probably be doing. If I hadn’t changed my

Probably travelling around the world shooting editorials and

career trajectory at all, then maybe probably something to do

campaigns for different brands. I don’t think there would be

with chemistry in Environmental Sustainability.

one big achievement but many smaller ones along the way. I’m also in the process of setting up a charity so hopefully that

You have spent some time working as an airline flight attendant – Did the regular proximity to the most gorgeous views from the sky inspire you at some point in your work? I did work partite during the summer months as a flight attendant, but I cannot say that it was inspiring to the point that it translated into my work.

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would have taken off by then.

FASHION

For Wonderland, 2018

06 Self-portrait 07

For Vogue Italia, 2018

N°08 — EBM M AGA ZINE — 57

PEOPLE

A GLIMPSE INTO THE DAZZLING WORLD OF CHUCKY BARTOLO Words by Giselle Scicluna // Photography by Kris Micallef Make-up by Gia Marie Waits

In the glamorous world of drag queens, Chucky Bartolo aka Tolqueen is up there with the best of them. Dazzling audiences with opulent shows and infamous hourglass curves, Tolqueen recalls the lost art of bombshell glamour with panache and not a little pizzazz. I asked Her Royal Highness how it all began…

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PEOPLE

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PEOPLE

Let’s start off the basics – the name of your alter ego – Tolqueen. Is it a nod to Tolkien the great writer or something completely different? It is 100% a nod to Tolkein, who may have been a devout Catholic, but wrote some incredibly homoerotic subtext in all his stories. My love for the blurring of gender lines and beauty in androgny first started when I saw and read about the elves from Middle Earth. Feminine men in positions of power, badass women as strong as the gods? Yes. Please. When and how did you discover your alter ego? Tolqueen is more of an extension of myself than an alter ego. In drag I'm still Chucky I don't play a character, but for some reason the heavier my hair and jewellery get, the freer I feel. Drag opens up a side of you that's

How would you describe both your

What do you think is the single most

still authentic, just a lot more confident - and

personalities? Do you believe that Chucky

important thing that has made you so

seeing what you're like with an injection of

and Tolqueen complement each other or

popular?

pure shamelessness is something everyone

are they total opposites? Unabashed honesty that comes from a place

should experience at least once. As above, I feel that Tolqueen and Chucky

of love. Honesty with who I am as a person

That being said, I've been doing drag for just

are the same person. I mean, at all times the

in the public eye, and honesty in whatever

over a year now, and it's been fun to watch

name friends and family call me (Chucky) is

content I put out into the world.

myself and my skills grow and adapt. It's

still a stage name, albeit one I've had since

also been amazing to watch how many more

the age of five. We're all playing dress up

I only discuss things I'm passionate about,

young people are now going out confidently

for different roles, and that's how I view the

and sometimes that means I'll criticise

in drag. I'm sure RuPaul had an effect on

Tolqueen-Chucky dynamic.

elements I dislike (maybe a little too harshly for some) but it'll always be about topics

that too, but I still like to believe a small part of it came from seeing someone Maltese be

Chucky at home with friends in sweatpants

I care about - and when you're genuine in

so unashamedly camp.

is not really the same, nor is he completely

your intention, people will respect (even if

different, from the Chucky in front of the

they respectfully disagree) what you have to

camera on YouTube, or the one in six pairs

say. That, and I have some wigs that are so

of tights and two corsets tearing up the

big, it's hard not to love them.

dancefloor as 'Tolqueen'. If history serves us right, the Victorian era It may all sound a little pretentious, but

was quite a repressed time for exploring

it's true, and as soon as I realised this, the

one’s sexuality (or at least this is the

amount of inner peace I found in being

general perception). How would Tolqueen

all the different versions of myself while

have fared during this time?

staying true to me was incredible - and now

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that I have it, it's hard to imagine a time I

I'm guessing it would have been a wild

didn't have the 'drag' outlet for that aspect of

ride of underground parties with a bunch

feminine creativity. It also makes me excited

of famous people attending in full-blown

to see what other 'side' of me I'll discover

incognito disguises. But I'm about as subtle

in the future and see as an essential part of

as Ira Losco's necklines, so my fun would

future-me.

probably have been cut off pretty early on

PEOPLE

by the state. At least I'd go out in a blaze of

Walk us through your transformation

ostrich feathers.

routine…

Tolqueen is I would think an expression

Once the boy brows are hidden and I've

of your feminine side – which part of the

plastered my face with cement, err...

whole process do you like best – choosing

foundation, you start painting on a new look.

your costume, making up, the show itself?

The eyebrows are higher, the eyes are bigger, there are cheekbones I haven't had since I

I think doing my makeup is the most fun for

was a foetus and lashes so long, I've literally

me. Transforming my potato of a man-face

stabbed someone with them.

into a fierce diva is so much fun. I've always loved painting, and this is essentially an

Once the face is painted and the wigs are

art class on a 3D canvas. Every small detail,

stacked (AT LEAST two on top of each other

from the eyebrows to the glitter, just takes

for volume. You can't have that much face

it up a notch and I don't think I'll ever stop

with a sad little wig from eBay thrown on

getting excited at the process. And while I

top), I squeeze myself into three pairs of

feel like a sausage being shoved into a skin

tights and stuff in padding to curve out my

that's too tight, seeing "my" body once the

hips. Some girls add booty pads too, but

pads are in and the corset is tightened to

thankfully I'm overly blessed when it comes

asthma levels, just elevates everything to

to junk in my trunk.

the point where you have to keep me away

(have fun wording that one into a PG system hahahaha!) - (We don’t have a PG system

from shiny objects or I will not stop staring

Once that's done, I wear two corsets (one

hahaha! – The Ed). It's brutal, but nobody

at myself.

underneath to do the brutal pulling in and

said being a glamazon was easy.

one over the dress to actually show off all Drag is all about glamour and

As a Queen whose bread and butter is

my suffering) before finally... the tucking. I

performance and comedy, I obviously love

won't go into too much details but basically

sophistication… who would you rate

that bit too, but I'll be honest, I'm not sure

you pop your nuts into your abdomen and

as your favourite all time glamour icon

my feminine side is what's shining through

tape them down, before dragging your penis

and why?

once I'm on stage. I may look pretty, but my

all the way to your ass and duct-taping that

mouth sure ain't.

back too. All night. For at least four hours

I love that this question follows me saying I tape my junk to my ass before leaving home. This is one tough question, because there's so many people who inspire me in so many different ways. From Jane Fonda's Barbarella (I'm obsessed with retro-futurism) to Fran Drescher in literally every look on The Nanny. But if I had to pick just one, it'd have to be Sophia Loren. Nobody could pull off a look quite like her, and she kept reinventing her style and looking absolutely incredible in every single thing she wore. And finally, a question that’s been burned in our mind since like forever - How do you manage to go to the bathroom when you're in drag? You don't! When in drag you can let almost everything loose, from your hair on the dancefloor to your tongue on stage, but your bladder has to be tighter than your corset, which is why we tend to get a lot snappier towards the end of the night!

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PEOPLE

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PEOPLE

N°08 — EBM M AGA ZINE — 63

The SEO Affiliate Industry in 2019

BUSINESS

For the past 3 to 4 years, two of the buzzwords in the iGaming business have been affiliates and SEO. We have seen countless acquisitions, startups and even a few mergers when it comes to SEO affiliates. To get some insight on the current state of the SEO affiliate industry, we thought there could be no better person than Valentin Alsen, the former Head of SEO at Catena Media, current Search Director and co-founder of Dilanti Media which recently won the prestigious best affiliate newcomer award at the iGB Affiliate awards in London.

What are some of the changes you believe will come

Still possible for a one-man startup on a shoestring

with regard to SEO in 2019?

budget to break in with large companies like Catena Media, Raketech Group and Dilanti Media as

Less clicks! That is less clicks for the organic search

competitors?

result list, as Google is rolling out more things like featured snippet, knowledge boxes and instant answers.

It all depends on market and keywords but there is

With a correctly built website you will however become a

absolutely still a chance for a one-man company to break

top candidate for things like featured snippet. On top of

into the SEO affiliate industry even with a shoestring

these UX updates to the Google search result page, the

budget.

ads in the search results have become more prominent which in turn contributes to a decrease in the clicks for

You have to find a niche, become the authority in this

the organic search result list.

niche and then from there slowly expand niche by niche.

Your thoughts on SEO affiliates in the gambling

Your recommendations for someone who wants to

industry for 2019?

break into SEO affiliation in 2019?

I believe we will see less acquisitions, due to the

Identify a niche, research it and become the authority for

simple fact that there are not that many large affiliate

that niche. If you are working with a limited budget, you

companies left in the regulated markets. The listed

will instead have to compensate that with time.

affiliate companies which were responsible for the majority of acquisitions in the past years are restricted to

Use free tools like RankChecker.io for keyword position

acquisitions in the regulated markets, but perhaps these

checking, get a copy of the SEO swiss army knife that is

companies will start making acquisitions in other online

Scrapebox and create content which you yourself would

industries.

like to mention on your website or send to a friend.

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BUSINESS

BLOCKCHAIN MARKET PREDICTIONS Words by Jan Sammut

Attempting to predict the future is a fool's errand. Attempting to predict the future in a sector as volatile as the blockchain space is lunacy. Nonetheless, here is a shortlist of some of the most likely outcomes over the rest of the year. We’ll start off with price, as despite everyone’s affirmations that they’re “just here for the tech” it’s the metric that appeases our human urge for instant gratification.

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BUSINESS

Bitcoin’s upside will remain capped

fraud or loss will encourage these players to take the leap. This forecast is based on a PWC

Bitcoin will maintain its status as the crypto

report which stated that On an individual

world’s reserve currency, with its chart

basis, most firms have spent less $500,000

being the leading indicator for trends across

on blockchain. However, a good 11% of the

the broader cryptocurrency asset class; i.e.

survey’s respondents have spent more than

investors will look at BTC to determine if

$10 million. According to PwC, the demand for

the trend is heading up, down, or sitting in

services related to blockchain advisory will hit

channel. However, despite maintaining its

as $1.7 billion in 2019.

position as the number 1 cryptocurrency, its upside is limited as futures trading now allows

Expectations will re-align with reality

two sided trading on the currency (i.e. you can now bet that its price will raise as well as fall).

The oft-cited Gartner hype cycle does have

This is not to say that the price will necessarily

a solid grounding in human nature, and

stagnate at current levels for the rest of the

therefore possess self fulfilling tendencies.

year, however, the parabolic bull-runs of the

2019 will see expectations related to blockchain

past are now firmly in the realm of stories-

descend from the stratospheric peak of inflated

we’ll-tell-our-kids-someday. The next bull-run

expectations to more realistic levels. The

will start around this time next year Every four

sector as a whole will realise that blockchain

years, the reward for mining bitcoin is reduced

has a very narrow scope of application, and

by 50% to limit inflation. Referred to as the

that attempting to shoehorn the technology

halving, historically this has always been

into most projects will lead to, at best inferior

preempted by a steady climb in value, followed

product performance, or, at worst abject failure.

by another leg-up immediately following the

In this respect blockchain innovation in 2019

reward reduction as the amount of newly

will be driven by founders and entrepreneurs

minted BTC sold by miners on exchanges is

identifying the few, profitable use cases for

halved, reducing downwards pressure. In the

the technology, rather than quantum leaps in

past, price appreciation could be seen as early

protocol level development.

as a year prior to a halving event, however, due to the aforementioned futures market, I would

Layer 2 Scaling Solutions

predict Q4 19 as the earliest date for the bull run to commence.

Second layer scaling solutions are what will drive blockchain adoption over the next

Enterprise Adoption will accelerate

five years and beyond, as they resolve the technologies

Enterprises

are

cryptocurrency

the

which

many transactions can a blockchain make per second). Second layer solutions aim to

as the adoption they drive by implementing a

resolve the paradox that greater adoption

technology into their stack. Whilst 2018 was a

of a blockchain protocol leads to greater

year of learning and planning for enterprise

transactional load, which in turn leads to

clients, 2019 will see players jump in and

increased network fees and slower transaction

begin to integrate the technology into their

speeds. The two most advanced solutions today

businesses to see the benefits of cost reduction,

are Bitcoin’s Lightning Network, and various

greater efficiency and fraud reduction. The

initiatives on Ethereum, such as sharding

entrance of robust custodian solutions, which

and plasma. As blockchain protocols compete

permit

and

via

limitation,

is transactional throughput rate (i.e. how

the

companies

both

primary

investment that they bring into a sector, as well

public

adoption,

gatekeepers

regulated

to win adoption by larger players, solving

institutions to hold crypto in a secure manner,

scalability issues will take front and centre in

minimising the risk of liabilities through theft,

2019 for them to maintain relevance.

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EVENTS

THE DUELZ GAME LAUNCH DIARY Photography by Samuel Farrugia and Martin Pettersson

Translating a client’s vision into reality is what the guys and girls at Ambassadör Events do best, injecting glamour and creativity into every project. The launch of SuprNation’s latest casino game, Duelz is the latest to undergo the Ambassadör Events treatment, and boy, what a night that was! Here, Ambassadör Events’s feisty Debbie Cooper tracks the journey…

July 2018: The guys at SuprNation are pretty cool so our first meeting with them at their office went without a hitch. We sat down with them in July 2018 where they explained that they wanted to do something special to launch their latest casino game, Duelz. Going through their early marketing materials, my initial thought was that this was a very well-designed game providing ample inspiration and something which we could definitely work with. An old mini palazzo near Capua in Sliema, which doubles as their office was to be the hosting venue for the launch. The stunning architecture would serve as a lush backdrop and an inspiration for our creative juices to flow. After confirming the draft details for the event such as location and number of guests, we got to work on our proposal. August 2018: I sat down with our production guru, Alan Fitzpatrick to go over the brief. Alan is incredible at looking at existing spaces and coming up with innovative ways to use them. Since we were working with such a beautiful setting anyway, it didn’t take too long for Alan’s creative cogs to start turning. Another site visit and we managed to come up with a simple but ultra-creative proposal; one of the landscapes from the game was to be the theme for the launch… SuprNation loved the concept (phew!) and so we got to work.

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EVENTS

August 2018: Once we had all the creative ideas approved, Alan and I met with our suppliers for branding, audio, lighting and video to discuss how everything was going to fit together. It’s really important that all the different departments understand how the concept will work and that they voice any concerns. Alan had come up with a fantastic idea of video mapping the Duelz game demo on the façade of the building. Unfortunately, the façade CAD drawings weren’t available, so we had to start from scratch, taking numerous measurements to ensure that the final video would be perfect. But there was another glitch on our project’s horizon; the building had very small doorways, so the transporting of large objects was practically impossible. Small and portable was the only way to go! Alan’s idea of creating freestanding ice sculptures that mimic the ones found in the game’s landscape came next. These were key to Alan’s vision, acting as focal points in transforming the outdoor areas, so the branding team got to

September 2018:

work on those right away. Production for all the décor is underway and the video team are working on the façade video mapping. We managed to get some photos for props and ice sculptures that would be scattered strategically to look like SuprNation’s office was being taken over by the world of the game. Regular updates to the client ensured we’re on track. So far, so good. October 2018: With one month to go before the event, the video and ice sculpture production is in full swing. In the meantime, the final details regarding DJ and music, catering menu and timings for the event agenda are finalised with SuprNation. Despite several details which we need to tackle, thankfully everything is going swimmingly. ›

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EVENTS

November 2018 – the day of the event: I’m on location as soon as the office opens, inevitably playing ‘warden’ as several cars have parked in our spaces despite having ‘No Parking’ permit signs up. The caterers arrive to set up the kitchen area a few hours before the event starts. In the meantime, lights, smoke machines, audio and branding are set up throughout the day. I apologise to SuprNation for digging up parts of their garden to install the ice sculptures, but it must be said, it’s looking incredible! At this point, I also feel sorry for the lighting guys who have just spent six back breaking hours placing LED strips around the garden’s existing pathways.

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EVENTS

Breathe! At last the doors officially opened at 6pm

At 11pm the event is over, and dismantling starts. We

and we welcomed guests eagerly. The video façade as

must be super quiet (a mammoth task given the sheer

predicted was a showstopper – it had people stopping

amount of equipment involved) since the venue is in a

and taking videos. It also clearly made an impact

residential area.

on casual passers-by - one old man even strolled in thinking it was an actual casino!

After helping the lighting guys remove all the path lights and making sure that the office is as tidy as possible, it’s

Thankfully, we were super lucky that the weather gods

time to go home. It’s 2am and it’s been a long day but

were on our side; the day of the event was the only day

overall, we’re very proud of the creativity and execution

of the week when it didn’t rain. Even though we had

of the event.

a backup Plan B, in case we had to move everything inside, everyone involved breathed a sigh of relief

Most importantly, SuprNation have given us very

seeing the guests enjoying the full use of the garden

positive feedback and this is ultimately what makes

atmosphere.

every event that we do worthwhile.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sports teaches you character, it teaches you to play by the rules, it teaches you to know what it feels like to win and lose-it teaches you about life.â&#x20AC;? Billie Jean King

FITNESS

SPORTS: AN EXPERT’S GUIDE TO THE BEST TIPS AND ADVICE Words by Matthew Camilleri // Photography by Jacob Sammut Locations Fort Fitness and Freemyme

Sports is the embodiment of hard work and dedication. Any sport requires an amount of perseverance, regardless whether the end goal is to excel in one’s chosen discipline or simply as a source of everyday wellbeing. Whatever the reason, the feel-good factor associated with sports practice is undebatable. Here, with the help of Matthew Camilleri we delve into two popular disciplines and their effects on our bodies… But who is Matthew Camilleri? Matthew Camilleri has been a practicing physiotherapist for the past five years, is an IRB certified strength and conditioning coach and Running School certified running and biomechanics coach. He is the managing director of The Physio Specialists, a health-care and rehabilitation brand boasting a wide-array of treatment options for both athletes and non-athletes. He is also reading for a masters on pain management at the University of Edinburgh. Rugby fans are also familiar with Matthew as the Sliema Stompers and Malta National Rugby team player.

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FITNESS

Boxing Contrary to popular perception, boxing is not only about physical force.

The first group of muscles being put through their paces are the muscles

It is also about poise and grace under extreme pressure. Here, however,

around the shoulder girdle (namely the rotator cuff muscles, deltoids,

Matthew explores the mechanics…

latissimus dorsi, the pectoral muscles and especially the serratus anterior, commonly known as the boxing muscle). At this point I would

Anyone who has been through a session of boxing training will tell you

like to emphasise the importance of the back muscles in all fighting

that it is a full-body work-out that can leave your muscles aching for days!

sports. If the muscles at the front of the body are the ‘engine’ then the

If we look a little deeper into the movement patterns and biomechanics of

muscles at the back are the ‘brakes’. They work very hard to pull the arm

boxing, we can identify three main areas which are working over-time though.

back after punching and are often neglected during training!

Next up are the hard-hitting core muscles. The rectus abdominus, obliques and the spinal erector muscles work hard during all that arm rotation and rapid leg movement to maintain stability in the midriff and transfer power from those strong leg muscles into a knock-out punch up top! Finally, you guessed it, the upper legs and hips. The Pierre Lindh won his first K-1 kickboxing

quadriceps, hamstrings and especially the gluteal muscles

fight on 23rd of February 2019.

generate huge amounts of power whilst also contributing to stability and rapid lower body movement.

Pierre Lindh

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FITNESS

Faris Lukovic

Simon Jerez

Injury prevention training for boxing should ideally combine strength

shoulder blade in a ‘neutral’ position and avoid the temptation to shrug

and mobility training for all the above muscle groups. If I were to pick

your shoulders up! Repeat the process with both arms and work for four

my favourite boxing injury prevention exercise, it would be ‘punch pull-

rounds of 20 to 25 repetitions. Next move into a punch to middle height

backs’ though.

(like a jab) and then move onto a high punch, as if aiming for the ceiling. This exercise may feel easy to start with but a few reps in and you’ll really

Start with your arms pulled towards your chest, like a boxer defending

start feeling the burn!

their face, and then slowly punch down towards the ground, letting your shoulder blade move forward (protraction). Next actively pull

Getting a few rounds in every week will bullet-proof your upper back

your shoulder blade back, effectively pinning it into place and pull your

and rotator cuff muscles giving you better punch reach, endurance and

elbow and arm back into that starting position. Focus on keeping the

power. Rocky Balboa, step aside! ›

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FITNESS

Circuit Training Fact: no other sport quite targets body conditioning, strength building or muscular endurance as Circuit Training. And no other training regime quite achieves results as quickly. So, if the thought of spending hours on end walking on a treadmill or peddling away on an exercise bike drive you crazy, Circuit training could be the solution! Circuit training makes use of the principles of High Intensity Interval Training, or HIIT for the fitness fanatics out there, to burn calories and reap greater benefits for the cardiovascular system than traditional steady state cardio could ever do. HIIT has long been practiced by athletes and fitness experts around the world as the best way to get fit and burn fat in shorter and shorter time periods. Sounds like a dream come true to me! HIIT style circuit training incorporates short bursts of all-out effort followed by brief recovery periods, condensed into work-outs that last minutes instead of hours! The beauty of this approach is that research is piling up in support of this method and its numerous health benefits. It all started from studies carried out at McMaster University in Ontario stating that 30 second bike sprints for a total of three minutes led to the same changes in muscle cells that two hours of steady state biking provided. Since then hundreds of papers have been published regarding the health-benefits provided by these short, extremely intense, bouts of exercise. The secret to unlocking the true potential of these futuristic workouts is to push yourself as hard as possible for the allotted ‘exercise period’. Whilst traditional HIIT work-outs normally last no longer that 10 minutes, circuit training classes can vary from 20 up to 90 minutes and are often divided into exercise stations to keep things interesting. Faye Zammit

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FITNESS

The question is, how do you prepare yourself for a work-out which is as varied as it is intense? My first tip would be to build a solid fitness base before attempting these higher intensity classes. Bite the bullet and start with a few weeks of walking, cycling, running or rowing for 30-60 minutes (depending on your fitness level). Secondly, I strongly recommend getting stronger! Remember that circuit classes will often incorporate body-weight or weighted movements into stations to challenge you further. This will be seriously demanding on your muscles, so make sure to prime them with some resistance training before you attend your first class.

Anoosha Iftikhar With that in mind, my injury prevention exercise of choice for people looking to impress at their next circuit training session is a true gutbuster. Whilst the traditional spilt squat is already tough as is, working both the anterior and posterior chain muscles of the lower body, this Bulgarian split squat variation will truly test your mettle. Loading the split squat in this ‘windmill’ pattern absolutely rocks the core, upper and lower body as you work hard to complete the set! Whilst working, remember to keep the core and glutes tight and focus on keeping the working knee stable throughout the motion. To mimic the demands of a circuit training station, I would recommend working for 4 sets of 15-20 repetitions with a low to moderate weight. Long-term results guaranteed, happy split squatting!

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FOOD

Hanna Briffa Having two small kids has definitely changed my life on all fronts, and so did my daily menu. Since we became a family of four, I became all the more conscious about what we eat and how we cook it, the quality and origin of the produce, the nourishment of the meal and also the impact we leave behind, as consumers. Since a couple of years now we have considerably reduced our meat intake and base most of our meals on vegetables and grains. Which works perfectly well for the kids - pasta and grains are their all time favourites! One might think that it’s boring and unreasonable to quit on meat tastes and proteins, but the truth is that it will open so many new doors in your dietary life, once you start experimenting a little. To make kids’ meals more nourishing is not an easy task, and there is always a “NO” somewhere along on the way, but swapping some ingredients while keeping similar results normally works wonders. And who doesn’t like pancakes?! I sometimes use chickpea flour (socca) instead of wheat flour, to boost them with protein, and the final product will look pretty much the same. I am one of those people who in the middle of a foodie weekend start craving greens and apples to balance the abundance of rich meals. So salads are a common dish in our routine: green, or purple, or totally minimal, like celeriac “remoulade”, with one golden rule: the fresher Words and Photography by Hanna Briffa

ingredients you find, the better! In today’s fast-paced and open world, I find it rather old-fashioned to criticize the way people live and eat. Only through education about nutrition and its consequences can we encourage others to lead a healthier and cleaner way of life. Respecting the planet together with the work and energy that goes into growing and producing quality ingredients is also central to our wellbeing on all spiritual and moral levels.

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FOOD

Lemon almond cake ¾ cup olive oil

½ cup semolina

3 eggs

poppy seeds (optionsl)

1 cup sugar

1 tsp baking powder

Juice from 1 lemon and its lemon rind

Pinch of salt

1 ½ cup almond flour

Preheat oven to 180°F. Line your baking pan

ingredients, lemon juice and poppy seeds, mix

with parchment paper. Whisk together the

well. Transfer batter to prepared loaf pan, and

almond flour, semolina flour, baking powder,

bake until golden brown, about 45 minutes. Let

and salt in a medium bowl to combine.

the cake totally cool before removing from the

Combine together olive oil, sugar, and lemon

pan. ›

zest. Add eggs and beat until glossy. Add dry

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FOOD

Celeriac and pear salad

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1 small celeriac

Dressing:

1 asian pear

50ml lemon juice

1 sweet and ripe pear, like bosc

50 ml of honey

Lemon, for testing and juice

100 ml of olive oil

Herbs

pinch of salt

Toasted seeds, poppy, chia or sesame

1 cup of plain yoghurt

Peel and finely slice the celeriac into thin

dressing. Add to the celeriac and mix well. If

stripes. Chop the pears the same way. Drizzle

you have too much sauce reserve it for next

with the juice of half a lemon, to prevent

time, don’t make the salad too runny. Finely

browning. Pour lemon juice, honey, olive oil

chop your herbs: parsley, coriander, chives

in a jar or bottle add a pinch of salt and shake

will go well. Sprinkle on top together with

well to incorporate all the ingredients. Taste

the seeds. Zest one lemon, preferably local for

it and adjust the flavour if needed. In a small

the unique fragrancy. Add some more salt if

bowl mix together yoghurt, tahini and lemon

needed.

FOOD

Socca (chickpea pancake) with butternut squash and kumquat ½ cup chickpea flour

Yoghurt cream:

Extra-virgin olive oil

1 cup of yogurt

Kosher salt

1 tbsp of tahini

Butternut squash

Salt

Fennel bulb

1 tbsp Honey

Kumquat Preheat oven to 150°F. Peel and chop the

your socca batter to center of the pan and

squash ito small cubes (or other desired shape).

tilt it so that it spreads out to a thin pancake.

Mix it well with olive oil, salt, a drizzle of honey

Cook, undisturbed, until well browned and

and freshly ground black pepper. Bake for

crisp underneath, 2–3 minutes (crank up the

about an hour, until soft and golden. Whisk

heat to high if needed to get crunchy edges

chickpea flour, 1 tbsp. oil, a pinch of salt, and

and nice browning). Turn and cook just until

½ cup water in a medium bowl. Let socca

lightly browned on the other side. Top each

batter sit at least 10 minutes or up to 1 hour to

socca with yoghurt cream, butternut squash,

let flour hydrate. Mix all the ingredients for the

finely shaved fennel and kumquat. Sprinkle

yoghurt cream. Adjust the flavours if needed,

some toasted seeds and a good bunch of herbs.

not too sweet, not too salty. Heat 1 tbsp. of

Sprinkle some salt.

olive oil in the skillet over medium-high. Add

HEA LTH

DRINK YOUR WAY TO BETTER HEALTH The Benefits of Alkaline Water Words by Giselle Scicluna // Photography by Julia Boikova The wellbeing industry is a booming business.

Alkaline water must also contain alkaline

Some health fads are nothing more than

minerals and negative oxidation reduction

industry hype, but others deliver exactly the

potential (ORP). ORP is the ability of water to

health benefits their proponents advocate. You

act as a pro- or antioxidant. The more negative

may have heard all the buzz about alkaline

the ORP value, the more antioxidizing it is.

water. Some say it can help slow the aging process, regulate your body’s pH level, and

Despite the lack of proven scientific research,

prevent chronic diseases like cancer. But what

proponents of alkaline water still believe in its

exactly is alkaline water, and why all the hype?

proposed health benefits. These include: anti-

Is it worth looking into as part of a healthy

aging properties (via liquid antioxidants that

regime?

absorb more quickly into the human body); colon-cleansing properties; immune system

The “alkaline” in alkaline water refers to its pH

support; hydration, skin health, and other

level. The pH level is a number that measures

detoxifying properties; weight loss and cancer

how acidic or alkaline a substance is on a scale

resistance.

of 0 to 14. For example, something with a pH of 1 would be very acidic and something with a pH

They also argue that soft drinks, which are

of 13 would be very alkaline.

notoriously acidic, have very positive ORPs leading to many health problems, while

Alkaline water has a higher pH level than

properly ionized and alkalinized waters have

regular drinking water. Because of this, some

highly negative ORPs. Green tea is rich in

advocates of alkaline water believe it can

antioxidants and has a slightly negative ORP.

neutralize the acid in your body. Despite the high acidity in lemons, they also Normal drinking water generally has a neutral

have an alkalizing effect on the body when

pH of 7. Alkaline water typically has a pH of 8

digested. Eating foods that are alkalizing can

or 9. However, pH alone isn’t enough to impart

be an additional way to increase the benefits of

substantial alkalinity to water.

drinking alkaline water.

82 — EBM M AGA ZINE — N°08

So, how do you go about making your own? Fortunately, you will need only a few simple ingredients and implements to make alkaline water at home: −− One-gallon container with a tightly fitting (screw top) lid-preferably a glass container but plastic will work, too. −− A gallon of distilled or filtered water (You can use tap water, but it often has a lot of impurities in it) −− Baking Soda −− pH test strips −− Sea Salt −− Coral Calcium Powder −− Lemon −− Kitchen Knife −− Small Bowl

This is how to whip up a batch of homemade Alkaline Water: 1. Pour a half-gallon of the distilled or filtered water into the gallon jug with a lid. 2. Add one teaspoon each of baking soda, sea salt and coral calcium powder to the container. 3. Wash the lemon and slice it in half. Squeeze as much of the juice out of it as possible into the small bowl. Fish the seeds out of the juice and discard them. 4. Pour the juice into the water/baking soda/coral calcium mix. 5. Secure the container lid and then shake it vigorously to thoroughly mix all the ingredients. 6. Add the rest of the distilled water to the container, being sure to leave an inch of space at the top of the container for air. 7. Close the container tightly and give it a good few shakes to mix all the water. 8. Using the pH strips according to the package directions test the water to see what level you are. Ideally, you will have achieved a pH level of 8 or 9. If that is not the case, add another ¼ teaspoon of baking soda to the mix and test again. Keep adding the baking soda in small quantities until the proper pH is reached. Be sure to note how much you used for the next batch of alkaline water you make. Now that you have the desired pH level in your alkaline water, store the sealed container and enjoy a few glasses daily.

A RT & CULTUR E

Words by Giselle Scicluna

So, there you are, sat in a meeting with your dim-witted boss and you just about succeed in preventing the string of not so flattering expletives burning your brain, from coming to life through your mouth. Instead, while holding onto a smile which inevitably threatens to break your jaw, from beneath the array of files sitting on your lap, you quietly flip him the bird. At least, if you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t voice your disgust, you can vent your feelings without getting into trouble. Raising a middle finger or flipping the bird, as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more commonly known, has become part of our daily narrative.

A RT & CULTUR E

A very rude gesture perhaps, but since beating

1898 painting ‘Die Rose’. Whether Mucha’s

the living daylights out of someone is still

raising the finger was intentional or not, is

illegal and would land one into all sorts of

still unknown. Flipping the bird also features

unpleasant situations, flipping the bird is the

prominently in contemporary political art.

escape route out of rage – from dealing with

The Museum of Modern Art holds Chinese

idiots on the road to showing discontent at

artist Ai Weiwei’s photo, Study of Perspective-

the ref during your team’s all-important home

Tiananmen Square, which shows the artist’s

game. Of course, this is something we all do but

outstretched arm with his middle finger raised

would rather not mention; after all it’s not the

in the foreground, and Tiananmen Square

height of civil behaviour, is it?

in the background. Ai Weiwei’s art is deeply rooted in anti-government protest, and “the bird” in front of Tiananmen Square visually echoes his written protests against the Chinese government. In 2013, as a political message to the Czech President Miloš Zeman, Czech artist David Černý floated an outsize, purple statue of a hand on the River Vltava in Prague; its middle finger extended towards Prague Castle, the Presidential seat… The city of Milan also sends its provocative “F*** you”; this time to the world of bankers and CEOs. The marble statue bearing the title of L.O.V.E., which stands for Libertà, Odio, Vendetta, Eternità (Freedom, Hate, Vengeance, Eternity) and created in 2010 by the Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, takes pride of place in

But how did this universal sign for “F*** you”

the centre of Piazza Affari, right across from the

come about? If history is to be believed, this

headquarters of the Italian stock exchange…

assertive sign of protest and contempt has been

Indeed, sending a none too subtle message to

around for centuries. For the liberal ancient

Italy’s financial district.

Greeks flipping the bird used to symbolise sex; not exactly the vanilla kind, but the rude and

But whether deemed as vulgar, derogatory or

brutal type – effectively taking “F*** you” onto

just plain nasty; nothing quite demonstrates

a whole new level. For the ancient Romans,

just how detestable we find a particular

giving the finger was considered as a physical

offense like a raised middle finger. A symbol

threat. Digitus impudicus – the middle finger

of outrage, protest or just plain disdain, it’s

in Latin, literally means “the shameless,

inherently clear that flipping the bird conveys

indecent or offensive finger” and was a nod to

a much stronger message than a simple

anal rape and was used, as is today, to express

“F*** you”.

contempt towards someone. Centuries later, in Elizabethan times, putting the tip of one’s thumb behind their top front teeth and flicking it out carried the same connotations as the middle finger salute, and was tantamount to challenging someone for a fight. The middle finger has also been historically featured in art. Art Nouveau Czech painter and illustrator, best known for his distinctly stylised and decorative theatrical posters of Sarah Bernhardt, has discreetly inserted (no pun intended) a quite visible middle finger in some of his paintings, perhaps the most popular being his lithograph advertising La Trappistine, a Parisian liqueur and his N°08 — EBM M AGA ZINE — 85

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

MAR 07

Three Works and A Script, by Rosella Biscotti (exhibition) Blitz gallery, Valletta, Free 07th Feb - 23rd Mar, Tue-Fri 13:00-18:00, Sat 10:00-13:00hrs thisisblitz.com Michael Mcintyre - The Big World Tour - Live in Malta - 2019 (comedy show) MFCC - Malta Fairs & Conventions Centre, Attard, Malta, €50/€70/€115 07th Mar and 08th Mar, 20:30hrs showshappening.com

Così fan tutte (live opera) Teatru Manoel Valletta, €30/€65 /€85 Showing Dates; 08th, 10th Showing Time; 19:30hrs teatrumanoel.com.mt Where I lay down, Ritty Tacsum

Forest Fresh: Paintings in Oil by the American artist Sj Fuerst) (art exhibition) Lily Agius Gallery, Sliema 22nd Mar - 20th Apr, Opening: 19:00-22:00, Mon-Sat 10:00-13:00 fb.com/lilyagiusgallery/events

Movies in Concert (concert) Mediterranean Conference Centre, €10-€15, Time; 19:30 showshappening.com

30 31

Die Walküre (Live) (opera on screen) Spazju Kreattiv, St James Cavalier €18, Time; 17:00hrs kreattivita.org Ugo Rondinone: the radiant (art) Sa Maison Gardens, Floriana Free, Time; 9:00-16:30hrs micas.art

APR

MAY 02 03 05

(photo exhibition)

Malta society of arts: Palazzo de La Salle, Valletta, 08th Feb - 28th Mar, rittytacsum.com

08 10

08 17

10 13 15 16

Florence and the Uffizi Gallery 3D

02 07

(classical art documentary)

Eden Cinemas, Cinema 11, 08th - 20:30hrs - €7/€12 10th - 16:30hrs - €7/€12 edencinemas.com.mt

05 14

La Fille du Regiment (Encore) (live opera on screen)

Spazju Kreattiv, St James Cavalier 08h - 19:oohrs - €12/€15 17th - 14:30hrs - €12/€15 kreattivita.org The Sleeping Beauty (Encore) (Bolshoi Ballet on screen)

Spazju Kreattiv, St James Cavalier €5/€15, Time; 18:00hrs kreattivita.org Malta Café Scientifique: Mood disorders (science discussion) Spazju Kreattiv, St James Cavalier Free, Time; 19:30hrs kreattivita.org Macbeth (theatre) Teatru Manoel, Valletta, €10-25 15th Mar - 18th Mar, Showing Time 20:00hrs, teatrumanoel.com.mt EBM Masquerade at Palazzo Parisio (event : hosted by EBM)

Palazzo Parisio, €40, 19:00 - 02:00 showshappening.com

86 — EBM M AGA ZINE — N°08

07 09 14

La Forza Del Destino (live opera on screen) Eden Cinemas, Cinema 11, 02nd - 19:15hrs - €10/€18 07th - 15:00hrs - €10/€15 edencinemas.com.mt

(Bolshoi Ballet on screen)

Spazju Kreattiv, St James Cavalier €5/€15, Time; 18:00hrs kreattivita.org Rebrandt (exhibition on screen) Eden Cinemas, Cinema 11, 09th - 20:15hrs - €7/€12 14th - 15:00hrs - €7/€12 edencinemas.com.mt

Sun, Sea and Floating Performances – Malta Café Scientifique (science talks) Spazju Kreattiv, St James Cavalier Free, Showing Time 19:30hrs kreattivita.org

A Spring Symphony (classic music concert) Teatru Manoel, Valletta, €10/€20/€30 Showing Time 20:00hrs, teatrumanoel.com.mt

Die Walküre (Encore) (opera on screen) Spazju Kreattiv, St James Cavalier 05th - 18:00hrs - €12/€15 07th - 14:30hrs - €12/€15 kreattivita.org The Golden Age (Encore)

Robert Samut Hall / Mediterranean Conference Centre, €10/€20 29th Apr - 10th May, Time; 20:00hrs showshappening.com

AMP Lost & Found Festival (events) St Paul's Bay, 02nd May - 06th May, lostandfoundfestival.com Behind a Portrait Accademia Carrara (exhibition on screen)

Eden Cinemas, Cinema 11, 03rd - 20:30hrs - €7/€12 05th - 19:30hrs - €7/€12 edencinemas.com.mt Perfume by Moveo Dance Company (dance performance)

Teatru Manoel Valletta, €10/€25 /€30 10th May and 11th May, Showing Times; 19:00, 20:00, 21:30hrs teatrumanoel.com.mt Fashion First (fashion show : hosted by EBM) Palazzo Parisio, Naxxar Start Time; 13:00hrs showshappening.com Dialogues des Carmélites (live opera on screen)

Spazju Kreattiv, St James Cavalier €18, Time; 18:00hrs kreattivita.org

16 19

Within the Golden Hour (Live) (The Royal Ballet on screen)

Eden Cinemas, Cinema 11, €10/ €18 Showing Time 20:15hrs edencinemas.com.mt Repeat on 19th - 15:00hrs - €10/€15

Carmen Suite / Petrushka (Live)

Quatuor Arod: Haydn, Bartók & Brahms (classic music concert) Teatru Manoel Valletta, €10/€25 Showing Time; 20:00hrs teatrumanoel.com.mt

(Bolshoi Ballet on screen)

Spazju Kreattiv, St James Cavalier €5/€18, Time; 17:00hrs kreattivita.org

Earth Garden 2019 (music concert) Ta' Qali National Park, €20/€25 30th May - 02nd Jun, ticketline.com.mt

Malta International Music festival (music concert)

Faust (opera on screen) Eden Cinemas, Cinema 11, €10/ €18 Showing Time 19:45hrs edencinemas.com.mt Repeat on 05th May - 15:00hrs - €10/€15

Brahms & Dvořák (classic concert) Teatru Manoel, Valletta, €10/€20/€30 Showing Time 20:00hrs, teatrumanoel.com.mt

juliabka.com

SATURDAY 11TH MAY 2019 TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM SHOWSHAPPENING DOORS OPEN 1PM AT PALAZZO PARISIO, NAXXAR CATWALK FASHION SHOW | PHOTOGRAPHY | PANEL DISCUSSION | AFTERPARTY