Sunday Circle (November 2017) by Times of Malta

NOVEMBER 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ISSUE NO. 274

YES WE CAN(NABIS) page 18

SESAME STREET HITS MALTESE SHORES page 36

THE SKIN WE LIVE IN page 42

KELLY SCHEMBRI Singing her heart out in London / page 12

CONTENTS 28 COVER STORY 12

ARTS

LIVING THE DREAM Working with producer Warren Meyers, of Soulshaker & Audiofreaks fame, Kelly Schembri is living the dream in London. Speaking to Ramona Depares, she talks music, London life and modelling.

CONTROVERSIES 18

YES, WE CAN(NABIS) As more and more serious voices are added to the drive towards the proper legalisation of cannabis – especially for medicinal purposes – Johnathan Cilia, founder of pre-legalisation NGO ReLeaf, speaks to some of the main local exponents. IGAMING – BOON OR BANE? Ivan Borg gets Eman Pulis, the name behind Malta’s only iGaming summit, to tackle some of the controversies. THE SKIN WE LIVE IN Thanks to the recently-enacted gender identity legislation, Malta has made great strides in working towards a society where trans people face no discrimination. Yet, a lot more work needs to be done. Ramona Depares speaks to a trans woman who is currently in the process of transitioning and learns all about her hopes, fears and worries. REBEL WITH A CAUSE As a subversive publisher in Egypt, and with 10 per cent of authors he publishes having been jailed for offending public morals, Ahmed Said Abdel Moneim is no stranger to controversy. He shares his thoughts ahead of his participation in the upcoming Malta Book Festival.

SPORT 28

THE SAILING LEGEND Breaker of records and skipper extraordinaire Alex Thomson needs no introduction on the yachties community. Ramona Depares catches up with the man himself while he’s on a short visit to Malta for the Rolex Middlesea Race. EXERCISING FOR A BETTER LIFE The faces of a Eurosport campaign talk about how sport can change your life and reveal how leading a more active lifestyle has helped them achieve a happier, fitter and stronger self.

H E A LT H 48

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BOYCE ZONE With over 10 million subscribers and 3.5 billion views on its YouTube channel, Boyce Avenue is the most-viewed independent band on the planet. Iggy Fenech chats to brothers and band members Alejandro, Daniel and Fabian ahead of their debut in Malta this month. FUN AND FUR COME TO LIFE Sesame Street is, without a doubt, one of the biggest ever phenomena to rock the world of both children and parents. Now, some of the show’s favourite characters are making it to Malta for Sesame Street Live, the roaming, interactive live version of the television hit. Ramona Depares finds out more.

TEATRU UNPLUGGED TURNS 20 It’s been two decades of APS Teatru Unplugged and this year it’s back, complete with new venue for this time only. Co-founder Jonathan Shaw tells Ramona Depares about the joys, the challenges and the headaches of keeping track of emails. STOP ALL MOTION! Think Pixarlevel animation that will have your jaw drop, as a film series using stop-motion by local artists is set to hit the screens this winter. Producer Ruth Frendo gives us the inside scoop. IRREVERENCE Banned books, giant nudes and figurative middle-fingers: Father and son, playwright Alfred Buttigieg and artist Gabriel Buttigieg tell Iggy Fenech about their bold work, their refusal to take commissions, and how existentialism shapes their art.

MORE THAN SKIN DEEP Affecting 2.5 per cent of people and with no permanent cure, psoriasis is responsible for a lot of suffering. Sunday Circle finds out about the most innovative treatments. STARTING AFRESH! Dr Jean Paul Demajo offers the latest news from the world of dentistry.

STYLE 56

SETTING THE MOOD A celebration of winter wardrobe staples with the help of Caroline Paris.

PEOPLE 88

AN AFTERNOON WITH MARLENE MIZZI Sunday Circle is invited to MEP Marlene Mizzi’s house to discuss her role in the EU Parliament.

REGULARS 06 A word from the editor 08 c Body 10 c Style 103 Paparazzi

Send your letters to: Ramona Depares, executive editor, Sunday Circle, Allied Newspapers Ltd, 341, Strickland House, St Paul Street, Valletta, VLT 1211, or email: ramona.depares@timesofmalta.com. The executive editor reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and where space is limited. For advertising enquiries email: renee.mdecesare@timesofmalta.com or call: 9947 7193. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole, or in part, is strictly prohibited without written permission. Opinions expressed in the Sunday Circle are not necessarily those of the editor-in-chief or publisher. All reasonable care is taken to ensure truth and accuracy, but the editor-in-chief and publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions in articles, advertising, photographs or illustrations. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome, but cannot be returned without a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The editor-in-chief is not responsible for material submitted for consideration.

It is with a heavy heart that I write this introduction to the November edition of Sunday Circle. November should be an exciting month, leading everyone to the beautiful chaos that is the Christmas period. It’s usually a time that heralds celebrations, good cheer and all that. Instead, it is starting out on the blackest note possible, with a country plunged into... into I don’t know what, really. Barely three weeks ago, Malta’s most followed and well-known investigative journalist was executed in cold blood right outside her doorstep. I am sure that by now you have all read enough opinion pieces, obits and analyses of the situation. But no, it is never enough and we must take every opportunity to remind ourselves why Daphne Caruana Galizia’s murder is unacceptable. We must also take every opportunity to celebrate this journalist for what she was: fearless, doing what she believed in with no fear or favour. My first encounter with Mrs Caruana Galizia was during my first stint with this magazine, back when I joined as associate editor under the helm of the wonderful Blanche Gatt. Mrs Caruana Galizia was actually the first editor of this magazine, back when it was sent out privately to a group of subscribers. When I joined the team, she was one of the regular contributors. I had never read her before, but I remember my reaction to her monthly pieces: so witty, so refreshing, so unlike anything I had ever read by other Maltese

Daphne Caruana Galizia 1964 - 2017 writers. This was before her political blog was born circa 2008 (I’m not too sure about the year) and her opinion pieces tended to focus on the parochial nature of life in Malta. They were always hilarious, yet they left a bit of a sour taste in one’s mouth after reading – mostly because they were such a damn accurate representation of life on this blessed island. I was entranced, I wanted to be her. Of course, none of us were her. Which is why she was killed and we are still

PUBLISHER ALLIED NEWSPAPERS LTD.

PUBLICATION SALES MANAGER Renée Micallef Decesare

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Ramona Depares

DESIGN Joseph Schembri

6 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

standing here. Even as I write these words, I still get chilled to the bone. This is Malta, journalists don’t get killed. Clearly we were wrong all along. And yet, incredibly, even as we try to tell ourselves that this can’t be happening we are faced with people whose reactions unequivocally show that loss of life means very little to them. That their personal, often petty beliefs somehow matter more than the life of this woman, this fearless j journalist, this wife and mother. I have seen online comments to make me blush in shame for these people who express opinions that point towards a lack of humanity and empathy. Too many have forgotten that Mrs Caruana Galizia was a human being even before she was a journalist. j And too many insist on following up their ‘condemnation’ of this vile act of terrorism with a ‘well, but she used to step on many people’s toes’. Well, read my lips. So. Bleeding. What. Stepping on someone’s toes, metaphorically speaking, remains our sacrosanct right. Seeing people follow up a condemnation of murder with a qualification, with a ‘but’, just makes me sick to my stomach. My only hope is that Mrs Caruana Galizia did not die in vain. That we take this as a wake up call, that we look at ourselves from within and at least try to start rebuilding the country. But that’s hardly likely to happen, is it, not with the way everyone seems to prefer to live in denial... May she rest in peace and her family find closure.

COVER Kelly Schembri Photography: Irena Eastington www.irenaphotos.com

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Johnathan Cilia, Iggy Fenech, Ramona Depares, Anna Marie Galea, Ivan Borg

178, Marina Street, Pieta Malta - Tel. +356 20102949 www.victorazzopardi.com

BODY 1. THE REASON Y 1

Y is the new masculine fragrance by Yves Saint Laurent. Inspired by the iconic Yves Saint Laurent white t-shirt and black jacket, this eau de toilette represents a balance between freshness and strength. In this perfume, notes of bergamot, sage and ginger offer a sharp juicy freshness to challenge convention and exceed all expectations. At its base, soft notes of balsam fir, cedarwood and marine ambergris embody the subtle power of a tailored, black jacket that is refined, chic and surprisingly powerful. An authentic and bold creation; masculinity re-defined. Yves Saint Laurent fragrances are exclusively distributed by Chemimart. Tel: 2149 2212

2. ESSENCE OF ROME Bvlgari has just launched Goldea the Roman Nights - the third fragrance in the Goldea line. It has top notes of bergamot, black pepper and mulberry, a heart of black peony, night-blooming jasmine, rose and tuberose, and base notes of patchouli, black musk, vetiver and moss. The stunning advertising campaign was shot in Rome, featuring Bella Hadid. The fragrance is available in round black bottle as a 25, 50 and 90ml eau de parfum. Exclusively distributed by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel: 2142 4079/80.

3. SWEET LIKE CANDY

Prada Candy Gloss applies layers of olfactory notes to create a rich and uplifting new expression of the Prada woman. The core is a sweet base, where vanilla-like almond is infused with the sensual tenderness of musk, then encased in another sweet lustrous texture, creating an olfactory sensation akin to a pastel pink, sugared almond dragée. This accord is further cocooned within a bright cherry top note, its zest and sweetness interacting like a fresh sorbet, and given further ces. Exclusively lightness with the orange blossom’s uplifting nuances. 53. distributed by Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd. Tel: 2133 1553.

4. CARE FOR MENOPAUSAL SKIN N As women go through menopause, your skin experiences loss of density, loss of structure, sagging, dryness, and a loss of radiance. Neovadiol Compensating Complex Day Care and Night Care creams contain a breakthrough formula that reproduces the global benefits of the youth hormone ne DHEA, helping skin to regain firmness, more defined d contours, moisture, and radiance. Neovadiol Compensating Complex Day Care and Night Care creams are enriched with Aquakeep technology forr instant freshness that helps combat hot flushes and d excessive sweating. Exclusively in pharmacies. For more information and samples email vichy@prohealth.com.mt (or find Vichy on Facebook).

5. TRUE BEAUTY & HEALTH Choose skincare that nurtures the skin’s natural powers to bring out your most beautiful, authentic self. WASO, by Shiseido, is based on the philosophy of washoku, which is Japanese for ‘Japanese cuisine’. To fundamentally improve the skin condition, WASO uses the power of foods and botanicals known to promote beauty and health in Japan. Optimising the balance of the skin and the mind from within nurtures the strength to resist skin troubles such as pores, blemishes and roughness. WASO’s fusion of natural ingredients and technology bring out your unique natural beauty. Shiseido is exclusively represented by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel: 2142 4079. 8 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

STYLE JUICY COUTURE’S VIVA LA JUICY

TOMMYXROSSIGNOL IS COMING

Viva la Juicy is a ﬂoral fragrance that opens with notes of wild berries and juice mandarin, has a heart encompassing a ﬂoral blend of honeysuckle, gardenia and jasmine, and a gourmet rhapsody of base notes made up of amber, caramel, vanilla, sandalwood and pralines. The perfume is encased in 30, 50, and 100ml EDP typical Juicy Couture bottles with a charming fuchsia ribbon. Exclusively distributed by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel. 2142 4079/80

CLAUDIA’S BEAUTY SECRETS NOW AVAILABLE AT ALL BROWN’S OUTLETS Claudia Schiﬀer, one of the world’s most famous fashion and beauty icons, wants to share her own Beauty Secrets collection with you! In a collaboration with ARTDECO, she has created a range of highquality products in a stunning design for professional results under the credo: Simple, yet Breathtaking. Available exclusively at Brown’s. FB: BrownsPharma, Email: customercare@brownspharmacy.eu

Tommy Hilfiger have just announced the launch of TommyXRossignol, a premium men’s winter capsule collection designed in collaboration with Rossignol Group, a worldleader in the ski industry with a 108-year history of flawlessly blending performance and elegance, comfort and refinement. Designed with the sharp, innovative and modern image that embraces Tommy Hilfiger’s signature twist. The collection will be available at Tommy Hilfiger Valletta shortly.

BAYSTREET TURNS 17! Bay Street Shopping Complex first opened its doors to the public in November 2000, and has been offering a multitude of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences to locals and tourists since then. Seventeen years down the line, Bay Street Shopping Complex will mark its 17th bDAY on Sunday 26 November with a myriad of events. The day will kick off at 11am with the Christmas Hut and Ice Rink operating throughout the day, while, in the evening, the Complex will be immersed in the spirit of celebration, culminating in the cutting of the cake by the two Bay Street directors, and the distribution of cupcakes. www.baystreet.com.mt

JBL INTRODUCES BOOMBOX JBL Boombox is a powerful, portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers monstrous sound along with the hardest-hitting bass. Enjoy music for 24 hours without missing a beat, while also being able to use the massive 20,000mAh battery and dual USB ports to charge your external devices anytime. Rugged enough to handle your wildest tailgate party, the JBL Boombox is IPX7 waterproof. Available from Ultimate. www.ultimate.com.mt

CREATE YOUR OWN LES GEORGETTES BY ALTESSE Let your imagination run wild by experimenting with the finest in jewellery and leather craftsmanship Les Georgettes by Altesse is known for at our customisation workshop. With Les Georgettes, you can choose the design, finish and the colour of your leather or fluid Perspex! Exclusively available at Sterling and e-Jewels outlets.

10 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

178, Marina Street, Pieta Malta - Tel. +356 20102949 www.victorazzopardi.com

COVER STORY

Living the dream

WORKING WITH PRODUCER WARREN MEYERS, OF SOULSHAKER & AUDIOFREAKS FAME, KELLY SCHEMBRI IS LIVING THE DREAM IN LONDON. SHE TALKS MUSIC, LONDON LIFE AND MODELLING WITH RAMONA DEPARES. Some may be surprised to learn that music was not singer and

So why London? Happenstance, apparently. Kelly describes

song-writer Kelly Schembri’s ﬁrst love. Instead, it was dance, aged

how, after winning the scholarship she felt a sense of responsibility

three, when she started taking kiddie classes. Her love of dance

to herself, to the mentors on the show and to the people who had

grew, and she remembers spending most of her childhood listening

voted for her to do the very best that she could with the

to music and choreographing routines and – eventually – writing

opportunity that they had given her.

songs in her bedroom. “That’s how it all started. Then, as a teenager, I became obsessed with 1990s pop culture. I had no other vision for myself than having a career in this industry. Aged 16 I entered a reality show called Bravi and I topped the public vote. The prize was a scholarship to a performing arts college in the UK. After graduating, I also did some modelling, but music remained my passion,” she tells me. Throughout the years, Kelly formed two girl groups and worked with many different artists and producers. Eventually, she was introduced to KJ, the other half of her musical duo Monroe, in 2010. The duo recently revealed a new musical direction with a collaboration with Mob Culture, Can’t Divide Us. The track peaked at Number 5 on The UK Music Week Commercial Pop Chart; Number 2 on The DJ Radio Spins Chart; and Number 1 on Bay Radio Malta, gaining attention from many A-List DJ influencers. “We then teamed up with Soulshaker & Audiofreaks, which is one of the hottest production, remix and DJ outfits in the world of dance music, for our second single Something Real, which went to Number 10 on The Official UK Music Week Commercial Pop Charts, Number 4 on The Official UK Music Week Upfront Club Chart and Number 3 on The UK Music Week Upfront Club Breakers Chart,” Kelly adds. Monroe’s latest single Wasted Tears, has been signed to a number of A-list labels, including Tommy Boy Records, the same label behind artists like Coolio, Queen Latifah and Bob Sinclair. Of course, one wouldn’t expect any less from an act which opened The London New Years Day Parade to a global television audience of 280 million viewers and a live street crowd of 500,000 in Parliament Square. 12 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

COVER STORY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY IRENA EASTINGTON WWW.IRENAPHOTOS.COM MAKE UP & HAIR BY MIKEY PHILLIPS WWW.MAKEUPBYMIKEY.COM STYLING BY ELLIS RANSON WWW.STYLED-ELLISRANSON.CO.UK/

NOVEMBER 2017 â&#x2C6;« Sunday Circle 13

COVER STORY

“Moreover, my mum is English and I was born in London, I have close family here that we used to visit growing up, so I already felt like I had roots here, as well as in Malta.” Kelly has been in London for over a decade now. She describes moving away from Malta aged 17 as the hardest thing she had ever done. “It did take a while to adapt. At the time I had a hard time being away from my family, friends and loved ones. I remember noticing all the things that were different from Malta. But I also remember getting extremely excited when I saw my first squirrel. My dancing class thought it was a little strange to be so excited about it,” she recalls with a smile. Kelly agrees that there are more opportunities to be picked up in London – as long as you are tough enough to find them! “Someone once told me that I am the type of person who kicks down doors and creates opportunities for myself and I like to believe that this is true.” She describes how people outside the industry don’t always understand the concept of not having a nine to five job, as well as the misconceptions that come with being a singer or a model. “You can become very consumed by the industry and since you are always waiting for your next big job you are never completely satisfied. Even when you are satisfied, it’s usually short lived. This is the daily challenge.” She stresses the importance of artists giving value to their achievements without over-hyping or over-dramatising, but to simply appreciate and be happy with successes and learn from failures. “Of which there will be many! It’s not an easy career choice and I’ve definitely lost my way a couple of times but you know the saying ... Fall down seven times, stand up eight,” she laughs.

14 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

COVER STORY

IN THE SPOTLIGHT What’s the achievement you’re proudest of so far? Opening The London New Year’s Day Parade is deﬁnitely up

What are the biggest challenges of the profession? There are diﬀerent types of models. There’s fashion, commercial, glamour, ﬁttings, plus size, tall, petite, mature, character

there.

– The list is endless. I ﬁnd it quite challenging to explain this to Can you describe a day in your life?

people outside of the industry who think all models are the same.

No day is really the same. When I am not working, I am either

As a petite model with curves, I soon realised that the things that

running around London going to diﬀerent castings, in meetings or

made me diﬀerent from other models were the same things that

rehearsing with Monroe.

worked to my advantage. I have been signed to the biggest commercial agency in London and have been working successfully

Which artists/musicians inspire you?

in the industry for around 10 years. Another one of the challenges in

Sia, Lana Del Ray, Rag ‘n Bone Man, Lauryn Hill, The Chain

this industry is knowing what you are and are not comfortable with,

Smokers, Eminem, Ed Sheeran.

and knowing how to say no. I was asked to audition for Game Of Thrones (my favourite show), but the part they were oﬀering was

Would you say your song-writing is autobiographical?

fully nude so I said no.

Our music is deﬁnitely autobiographical – but I shouldn’t really say that should I? Oh well ... You can probably learn all about the things we have had to overcome through our music. It’s not always pretty, but it’s honest. The themes behind our music tend to touch on female (and male) enpowerment, overcoming loss/betrayal and surviving in what can be a superﬁcial and narcissistic world.

How important is image for an artist in today’s world? It is quite important that people can either relate to you as an artist or take inspiration from you. It is important to represent yourself well.

And how do you describe your image? Classy and cool.

How has your music changed since you took part in the Malta Eurovision? At the time, my music was very electronic pop. It was feel good and fun, and people loved it. With Monroe, our music has always been very diﬀerent to my solo stuﬀ and has a moodier and darker vibe.

Do you agree that festivals are a good launching pad? Deﬁnitely.

You are also a signed model – which is the most important aspect of your life, modelling or music? Modelling is the day job, but I’m married to the music.

How accurate are the depictions of the fabulous life of a model? People see the end result of years of hard work – they see the pretty picture. They don’t see the blood, sweat and tears. The drive and determination it took to get there.

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 15

COVER STORY

What do you miss from Malta? Do

Can you mention some modelling

you visit here often?

jobs that you particularly enjoyed working

The obvious 300 days of sunshine, sea

on?

and beautiful surroundings. The closeness of

Being Mila Kunis’s body double and stand-in on the movie Jupiter Ascending,

the communities, the fact that there is a

directed by the Wachowskis, alongside

friendly face or helping hand around every

Channing Tatum and Eddie Redmayne.

corner. I love the way the Maltese look out

Working with these actors everyday for

for each other and are very united in that

months was very exciting.

aspect as a nation. I love how strong the

I’ve also enjoyed doubling for Salma

family and friend bonds are there. And I

Hayek on The Hitmans Bodyguard,

definitely miss the Mediterranean food and

alongside Samuel L Jackson, hand doubling

lifestyle. Luckily I visit very often.

for Nicole Scherzinger on her Muller Corner What’s next?

Tv Ads and doubling for Sofia Vergara on

Wasted Tears has just been released a

The Kia/Modern Family TV Idents.

few weeks ago. You can download the

I have worked as a petite fitting

song on iTunes and watch the music video,

model for brands like Asos, River Island and Lipsy; shot campaigns in Milan and

directed By Steven Levi Vella and filmed in

Marbella; and have also just finished filming

Malta) on our YouTube Channel and

a tv commercial with David Beckham at the

exercising and... I am a massive foodie so I

time of this interview.

love to discover new food places.

website now.

Follow Kelly & Monroe on Instagram and How do you spend your free time? With close friends and family, socialising, travelling, listening to music,

What’s the best part of living in London, apart from the career options? I feel very free here.

Twitter @kellebomb @weare_monroe www.monroeoﬃcial.com

CONTROVERSIES

18 Sunday Circle â&#x2C6;« NOVEMBER 2017

CONTROVERSIES

Yes, we

can(nabis) As more And more serious voices Are Added to the drive towArds towA w rds wA legAlisAtion of cAnnAbis, especiAlly for medicinAl purposes, JOHNATHAN CILIA, one of the founders of pro-legAlisAtion ngo releAf, speAks to some of the mAin locAl exponents.

prime minister Joseph muscat recently announced

After using cannabis for a year, he plucked up

that malta’s drug laws had “failed” to do their job.

the courage to see a therapist. “if anything, it’s

“the drugs problem has aggravated over the years

thanks to my usage of cannabis that i was able to

and if we keep using the same recipe to tackle it,

confront myself and actually go to therapy.”

then we’ll keep getting the same results,” he stated at an event in vittoriosa. this statement, bearing in mind references to legalisation of cannabis prior to the election and

nowadays he doesn’t feel the necessity to use the prescription drugs, and only needs to visit his therapist when “things get too much”. “for me, cannabis is by no means a miracle

the tasking of parliamentary secretary Julia

cure for everything, but rather a means to have

farrugia portelli with looking into drug reform,

control over myself and my well-being...even

hints that change may soon be afoot.

though i know most people have divergent

And, for those who hope to use cannabis legally in malta, it was a ray of hope they sorely

opinions on the subject,” he smiles in resignation. the situation is a bit diﬀerent for leonard,

needed. for 25-year old daniel, a student who

who lives at home and takes care of his mother

suﬀers from ptsd and clinical depression, it meant

who suﬀers from ﬁbromyalgia. fibromyalgia is a

he might soon be able to stop having to have

pain disorder that causes the central nervous

dealings with criminals to get his medicine.

system to experience widespread pain, and the

“it all started because i wanted to use an

condition can be very debilitating. when i ask

alternative therapy/treatment, considering that

leonard why his mother doesn’t just use the

antidepressants are expensive and i wanted to, in a

prescription drugs, he gives me a pained look.

way, take control over my illness,” says daniel. “i

“unfortunately, our family has a history of

had been receiving counselling from a psychiatrist

allergies to a lot of types of common medicine, like

for a few months and, while the prescription drugs

penicillin and nurofen,” he conﬁdes with a sigh.

did work, the after-eﬀects weren’t so pleasant. i got

“people with ﬁbromyalgia need an anti-

frustrated and impatient, waiting to ﬁnd the right

inﬂammatory drug; the prescribed medicine does

drug for me and, as i said, i wanted control over my

work on her, but the side eﬀects can be really bad.

illness.”

with cannabis you don’t get this downside.”

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 19

CONTROVERSIES

Dr Andrew Agius during one of the educational talks regarding medicinal marijuana. His latest one was vetoed by the health department on the basis that he was disseminating false information.

The government claims that medical marijuana is now legal in Malta, but patients say this is not true Leonard, just like Daniel, has to obtain cannabis for his mother

access it. Right now, the situation is like this: a citizen is sick, there

illicitly, through dealers. This is a situation that, he feels, is less than

exists medicine that is needed and that will help, but we still can’t

ideal, and also causes him to worry about the quality and purity of

get legal access to it....” his voice trails oﬀ in exasperation.

the drugs he is getting for his mother. “It depends on what you get and from whom, really.

Meantime, perception of the drug is slowly changing as people educate themselves more. Even though a stigma still

Sometimes it’s hash and it’s good; at others you get grass and it

surrounds the use of cannabis, there are experts who are

can be better or worse… At the end of the day it’s a black market

determined to show the beneﬁts of using the natural plant. Dr

and it depends on what you can ﬁnd,” says Leonard.

Andrew Agius is a family doctor who runs The Pain Clinic, a pain

Desperate to ﬁnd something to deal with her pain, Leonard’s

management clinic in Paola that also employs holistic methods.

mother researched CBD, an oil made from the cannabis plant. After

Recently, he started an educational drive called Kannatalim, a series

some deliberation, she took the plunge and bought some online. It

of seminars and talks with other doctors, psychologists and

worked wonders.

psychiatrists, all about cannabis and its uses and risks. However, his

“CBD oil really helped my mum, and the system was working just ﬁne for us as she used to order it from abroad. Then, recently we saw on the news that the oil is actually illegal, and so she has now stopped ordering it,” Leonard continues. The current system isn’t helping Leonard’s mother and he is

latest talk was stopped by the Health Department amid claims that he was disseminating false information. From the studies he has seen, it’s pretty clear. “Malta needs to change its drug laws since the current law does not allow patients to access medical cannabis or other herbal extracts derived from

getting frustrated as time goes by and progress is slow – or even

hemp which are legal throughout the rest of the European Union,”

inexistent.

he says bluntly.

“The government claims that medical marijuana is now legal in Malta, but this is not true. There is no real way for someone to 20 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

Touching upon Leonard’s issue, he explained that “the current law states that only certain specialists have the authority to

CONTROVERSIES

prescribe medical cannabis preparations and since these specialists have had no training in this area, they refuse to prescribe this medicine”. The current law only allows a few doctors to prescribe cannabis as a medicine, and these doctors often have no experience – nor, it seems, the interest – in cannabis as a medicine. This situation is of major detriment to the patient, and Dr Agius is among a new wave of medical professionals who understand that overlooking this plant for much longer is unwise. “Cannabis is a herbal medicine and cannot be classified as a pharmaceutical,” he explains. Pharmaceutical derivatives of the plant, like the spray Sativex, cost around €500 for 10ml, which very few patients can afford. “The classification of medical cannabis products should be regulated in the same way that they are regulated in the US and Canada, focusing on the patient’s well-being and ensuring that products are certified as safe medicines according to the criteria used for this kind of herbal preparation,” he says.

This situation is of major detriment to the patient

“If cannabis is legalised for medical use,” Agius continues, “then patients who have been

In response to the national discussion on whether cannabis should be legalised in Malta or not, a cannabis legalisation pressure group called Releaf has formed to present the government with a manifesto on how to change Malta’s drug laws for the better. For

Eric Castillo, one of the organisers of Releaf, it’s a no-brainer.

previously told that there is nothing that can be done for their

“The main benefit in legalisation would be the health and

condition will finally get relief from their symptoms, most of

safety of the population,” he insists. “There would be restriction so

which can be very debilitating and disabling. Some patients who

that children and minors cannot access the substance. Those who

will benefit include cases of fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue

need help can curb their addictions easier through a modern,

syndrome, multiple sclerosis, IBS and various types of chronic

harm-reduction model. And the user would be able to consume a

pain. Medical cannabis can also be used as an adjunct in the

safe and regulated product in line with governmental standards.”

treatment of various psychiatric and metabolic disorders such as anxiety, depression, diabetes and obesity.” He also mentions a problem that has increasingly become

“There are many other ways Malta can benefit from legalising cannabis,” he continues. “A new industry would be created, giving the country a new revenue line that is very

apparent in Malta: the rise in use of legal, synthetic cannabis

taxable, and taxes can go towards education and the sports

substitutes, which are usually made in factories and have very

sector specifically. You increase job growth and general health,

different effects than real cannabis.

and at the same time decrease crime,” he smiles. “What’s not to

“If cannabis is legalised for recreational use, this will reduce the chances of young individuals purchasing synthetic cannabis

like?” As the government begins to test the waters around the

and therefore reduce the chance of serious complications

legalisation of cannabis, those who need the plant will continue to

associated with this dangerous synthetic drug, such as psychosis

have to deal with the black market. But, as more and more

and death. Regulation of cannabis products will ensure that users

personal stories begin to be heard and the taboo is removed,

obtain a good quality preparation which has been tested and

Malta may be on the path to showing its compassionate,

certified safe for human consumption, especially if this is intended

hospitalier legacy once more.

for medical use,” points out Dr Agius. 22 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

https://www.facebook.com/reLeafMalta/

MUSIC

Boyce zone WITH OVER 10 MILLION SUBSCRIBERS AND 3.5 BILLION VIEWS ON ITS YOUTUBE CHANNEL, BOYCE AVENUE IS THE MOST-VIEWED INDEPENDENT BAND ON THE PLANET. IGGY FENECH CHATS TO BROTHERS AND BAND MEMBERS ALEJANDRO, DANIEL AND FABIAN AHEAD OF THEIR DEBUT IN MALTA THIS MONTH

24 Sunday Circle â&#x2C6;« NOVEMBER 2017

MUSIC

You’d be hard-pressed to find a millennial who has never heard of Boyce Avenue; indeed, their fame, is a direct result of the Internet generation, where a big break online could lead to a stellar career offline. Boyce’s rise to fame is closely linked with the growth of video-sharing website, YouTube. In fact, just as I was interviewing them, they were filming a video to mark the 10th anniversary since they had posted on the platform for the very first time. “What’s up, YouTube? 10 years! This is insane; we can’t believe it’s been an entire decade!” frontman Alejandro says in the video, as the camera zooms in on the date underneath their first-ever post, a cover version of the Goo Goo Dolls’ Before It’s Too Late, which has been viewed over two million times. ‘Insane’ is a good way of describing the band’s journey over these past 10 years, I’d imagine. Forming in Sarasota, Florida in 2004, Boyce Avenue released their first album, All You’re Meant to Be, in 2008 and had their first stand-alone, sold-out tour in New York in 2009. Within a year of that, not only had Boyce headlined four shows in the Philippines, but they had been signed up by Universal Republic and had their second album, All That’s Left, released. By 2011, Boyce parted ways with Universal Republic and started their own label, 3 Peace Records. Working as vocal coaches on the American version of The X Factor, Boyce’s popularity continued to soar and within just a few years they had become the fourth most popular band on YouTube with one billion views and four million subscribers, and had gone on their first world tour, too. Fast forward four years and they had also released their third studio album, Road Less Travelled, as they continued to tour the world over… Definitely not too shabby for a band which, just a decade ago, was uploading videos from a bedroom. What makes Boyce even more special, however, is their connection to each other as brothers. Each of them may be very individual with his own likes and dislikes, but it’s when they get together to sing that the magic that has enchanted millions of fans the world over truly happens. “We all have our different personalities,” explains Daniel. “Alejandro, generally, in social settings, can be the most quiet at first, but then becomes very outgoing. He’s also into technology, cinematography and boxing. Fabian and I are NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 25

MUSIC

more outgoing straightaway; and he [Fabian] is passionate about

“We don’t actually play a lot of acoustic shows so it’s always a kind

fishing.”

of unique experience because it reminds us of when we ﬁrst started

“Individually, we all have very diﬀerent tastes in music,” Fabian adds. “But when we come together as Boyce Avenue, the music we create is… cohesive.” What also surprised me about the band is their gratitude for

doing pubs in Gainesville and Sarasota. It kind of brings out a diﬀerent side of us…” Malta is set to be extra special for Boyce Avenue, however, as they intentionally added a few days before the show to explore the

getting to do what they love and their down-to-earth attitude in the

islands with their families, so if you do spot them out and about,

way they speak to and connect with fans.

you probably won’t be hallucinating!

“Getting to do what we love every day is a blessing,”

“Everything’s going to be a surprise when we come to Malta,”

Alejandro tells me. “I mean, we wish that for everybody at the end

Daniel explains. “We’re not going to come in with any preconceived

of the day!”

ideas about the island… We’ve heard it’s a magniﬁcent and beautiful

“Getting to work as brothers is cool, too!” interjects Daniel.

place and, from the pictures we have seen, that deﬁnitely seems

“It’s alright,” teases Alejandro.

true. We’re excited to get a couple of days to experience the local

This mix of coming oﬀ as being approachable and their

culture and hang out. Since it’s the last day of the tour, we can let

mutual passion for music – coupled with the fact that they are so

just let it all in.”

active on their YouTube channel, posting acoustic covers of known

With just a few weeks left to go before they arrive on the

songs, as well as their own original material – is what has cemented

island, the tickets for the show in Malta are selling out fast… And I’m

Boyce Avenue’s success. And now, as their Be Somebody World

not surprised, as the beauty of Boyce Avenue is that it doesn’t matter

Tour – which has taken the band to North and South America and

whether you like RnB or pop, or music from the 90s or today’s Top

Europe (including the Royal Albert Hall in the UK), will be coming to

40, they usually have something for everyone on their set list.

a close in Malta on 11 November thanks to Big Ticket Events, which secured the gig. “The set for Malta will include a variety of songs; we’re going to have some originals tossed with some covers” says Alejandro.

26 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

Boyce Avenue perform in Malta on November 11 at the Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta. Tickets are available online. www.ticketline.com.mt; www.boyceavenue.com

Exclusively represented by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel: 2142 4079

SPORT

THE SAILING LEGEND BREAKER OF RECORDS AND SKIPPER EXTRAORDINAIRE ALEX THOMSON NEEDS NO INTRODUCTION TO THE YACHTIES COMMUNITY. RAMONA DEPARES CATCHES UP WITH THE MAN HIMSELF WHILE HE WAS ON A SHORT VISIT TO MALTA TO COMPETE IN THE ROLEX MIDDLESEA RACE.

28 Sunday Circle â&#x2C6;« NOVEMBER 2017

SPORT

Sail, survive, succeed. These three words greet me as soon as I visit sailing legend Alex Thomson’s website. Given Alex’s track record, it

What attracts you to sailing? The sense of freedom you experience. You’re out there, it’s

is easy to see why he would have chosen these words for his motto

just you and the sea. And you really get a sense of perspective of

and life ethos. The man is recently back from the Vendee Globe

how small the human race is compared to nature. Yet, you feel free.

race, where he broke his own British record of 80 days for the

Of course, there is also the aspect that you never know what to

fastest solo circumnavigation of the globe in a monohull, sailing the

expect, really. You might plan a race, but this doesn’t mean it will go

new Hugo Boss IMOCA Open 60.

ahead exactly as planned.

Footage of his so-described “death-defying stunts” won his racing team Gold for the Brand Film Festival Awards. And most recently, the skipper was given the Chichester Award in recognition of his oﬀshore sailing achievements.

Do you still sail for fun or do you only do it professionally? Nowadays my hobby is kite-surﬁng. I love it, so I tend to do that to relax in my spare time.

I think it is safe to say that he is a master at all three descriptors. And, recently, the man himself – also a brand ambassador to Hugo Boss – was in Malta to take part in the Rolex Middlesea Race. Several personalities were later also invited to a once-in-a-lifetime sailing trip and launch aboard the Hugo Boss IMOCA Open 60 itself. Events also included an informal breakfast and meeting with the press at the BOSS Store St Julian’s, where I had the opportunity to interview him. Aﬀable and enthusiastic, he immediately gives me the impression that he is the perfect embodiment of the wholesome spirit that the world of sailing stands for. This is a man who has a genuine passion for what he does. A good sport, too, as it happens. And, luckily for me, eager to answer any question related to the sport at which he excels – no matter how dumb. And so I go ahead and ask. NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 29

SPORT

tell you, all my competitors are very jealous. They all want to be sponsored by BOSS.

And what can you tell us about the HUGO BOSS yacht, which also raced this year’s Middlesea Race? I would say it’s probably the fastest boat in the world. When I’m sailing it, there’s always a smile on my face. On the whole team’s face, really. And when there are good sailing conditions...well, then you can really appreciate what I mean.

What is your advice to young sailors? Get wet. You need to be prepared to make mistakes and learn from them. And, in sailing, when you make mistakes you tend to get wet. In France

What is the greatest challenge

sailing is virtually on the

in what you do?

school curriculum and I see its

Finding a balance. When you’re racing, you need to be fast enough to

beneﬁts. It fosters a sense of

win. But you also need to make sure

teamwork, give you lifeskills,

that you ﬁnish the race, that you don’t

teaches you to be a good

jeopardise that aspect. Finding a

sport... It’s a sport that can be

balance between pushing yourself to

picked up very quickly, but

the limits to win and ensuring that you

that requires a lot of practice

don’t do anything to stop you racing is

to perfect. There’s always

not always easy.

something new to learn. You never know it all, I see this

And on a personal level?

from my own experiences.

Again, ﬁnding a balance, this time between my personal life and my professional one. Sailing means that I spend a lot of time away from home. There’s the nature of the sport itself, of course,

Do you remember your first time sailing? My ﬁrst love was actually windsurﬁng, when I was about 10 or

and also the fact that you tend to travel a lot to take part in races. I

11 years of age. The ﬁrst time sailing was on a dinghy and I managed

miss my wife and my son and I really strive hard to get myself more

to sail for about 20 metres before capsizing – which wasn’t too bad,

time with them.

I guess. I do remember that it was great fun. So much so that...I’m still doing it today. I was brought up by the ocean, so I could

What’s next for Alex Thomson Racing?

waterski at 10 years. My son is the same. Actually, he learnt to water

We will soon start testing on the new boat in Portugal. We

ski aged four, so... you could say sailing and the ocean is in our

have to create the next campaign, put together the team and so

blood.

forth. These are the building blocks to sailing, very important steps that need to be done just right.

Do you define success as winning? Not necessarily. Sailing and racing are not always about the

What can you tell us about your relationship with HUGO BOSS? It’s fantastic and I just feel so lucky. Their outﬁts are top of the

end result, but about the journey. OF course, the harder the journey, the more satisfactory the result, even if you don’t win. You have to sail your own race, not someone else’s. Do you best, always strive

range. It makes all the diﬀerence when you know you have durable,

harder...that is success, when you’re improving against yourself. It’s

seaworthy outﬁt. As a brand, BOSS is aspirational, it’s strong. I can

not necessarily about winning.

30 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

TRENDS

iGaming boon or bane? DESPITE ALL THE COMPLICATIONS AND SKEWED MARKET REALITIES IT BROUGHT WITH IT, THE TRUTH REMAINS – IGAMING BRINGS ALL THE COOL TO THE YARD. IVAN BORG GETS EMAN PULIS, THE NAME BEHIND MALTA’S ONLY IGAMING SUMMIT, TO TACKLE SOME OF THE CONTROVERSIES. Despite the controversies surrounding it, there are no two ways about it – the coolest sector in Malta is currently iGaming. The industry comes with the coolest offices, the coolest parties, the coolest team-building activities… you get the gist. It’s a popularity that does not seem to be diminishing any time soon. And it’s this popularity that propelled Eman Pulis into the industry – or, on the edges of the industry as he puts it. Even after the briefest encounter, Eman has been known to make quite an impression. He has a Tim Robbins-esque ability to imbue a conversation with a sense of dynamism that makes him a very persuasive personality. Quite the useful trait in the world of iGaming, where so much hangs on persuasion. Eman’s role within the industry is largely related to the success of a flagship event – the Summit of iGaming Malta, or SiGma for short – that has gone from strength to strength since its first edition in 2013. I meet with Eman for a candid conversation about his rise within the iGaming world, the state of the Maltese scene and his role within it. I ask him how he found his way into iGaming in the first place. “My background is mostly related to events management. I have been involved for the past 15 years. It started out with concerts and parties, and I did the best I could on that front,” he explains. Many, in fact, will remember his name from some memorable events for the University crowd; Eman graduated multiple times while honing his eventorganisation skills. But, eventually, it was time to move on. “As I grew older and the age gap between me and the other students grew, I felt like organising parties and concerts was not my thing any more,” he recounts. “I looked elsewhere and started organising expos and conferences instead.” He initially co-organised a boat show, but soon he realized his future lay elsewhere. Some of his parties

It would be totally naïve to say it has been 100 percent positive, with no repercussions whatsoever - eman pulis

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 33

TRENDS

He talks up the role of government in tackling the issues, and highlights the need for a proactive approach. Recent moves made by the government to encourage the reintroduction of vacant properties to the market would ease strains on the real estate front. “The market will take care of itself, but the government needs to be proactive.” For instance, Eman believes that you could add a 1,000 software developers to the local talent pool and they would be snapped up almost immediately, such is the demand right now. He suggests an Estonian-style accelerated work permit scheme might address deficits in key areas of the workforce, help the iGaming industry function more smoothly and lessen the difficulties local businesses face in recruitment. However, he does underline the fact the difficulties being experienced by recruiters are a side-effect of success, as more and events got rave reviews from people working in iGaming and, eventually. the wheels starting turning. “It didn’t take me too long to figure out that there was a huge opportunity in iGaming. There are so many gaming companies, with so many high-level executives based here. But

gaming companies move to Malta every year. “It used to be ‘Let’s go to Malta for tax reasons’ but that’s no longer entirely the case,” Eman claims. “If you want to ﬁnd a knowledgeable workforce, you’re most likely to ﬁnd it in Malta.” While this statement factors in the expatriate contingent,

there was no showcase to shed light on the industry,” Eman tells

Eman also credits the native population. “In Malta you’re likely

me. “I thought if there’s no one doing it, I’ll take the plunge and

to ﬁnd industrious people. When Maltese people are recruited,

put all my eggs in one basket. Luckily it took oﬀ.”

they tend to thrive and move up the ladder very quickly”.

Getting the show oﬀ the ground was no small task, largely

Eman goes on to give me the skinny on the inner workings

due to a lack of familiarity with a new event on the gaming

of the local gaming scene. He describes it as one would a

calendar. “The ﬁrst year it was extremely diﬃcult to get gaming

thriving ecosystem, and goes on to highlight what he feels

companies to trust us with their brand,” Eman explains. “But the

should be done to strengthen its roots here. He strongly

show kept doubling in size every year and now, there are 300

believes in the need to bring gaming aﬃliates to Malta. Aﬃliates

companies who trust their brand with the show.”

serve as the industry’s supply chain and, according to Eman

Eman credits the show’s impartiality with its success in

there are huge beneﬁts to the local ecosystem in having them

winning the industry over, but also highlights the importance of

relocate to Malta. Eman credits SiGMA with a huge impact in

adaptation. “iGaming is deﬁned by its permeability and change,”

this regard, and believes a number of aﬃliates relocated here as

he claims. “I need to be aware of all its trends to make sure they

a direct result of their participation in the conference. He claims

are reﬂected in the show.”

that the drive to lure aﬃliates to Malta started with SiGMA even

Indeed, he speaks with a great deal of conﬁdence on a

without government backup, although Eman does recognize

number of issues related to the industry, from regulation to

that this support did come. He clearly relishes his role in the

tech. He explains that the breakneck rate of change that

local gaming scene, as a pioneer who actively tries to promote

characterizes the industry is a challenge, but it clearly keeps

the health of the local ecosystem – something which he

him interested too, and he makes it a point that recent

considers key if the industry is to have staying power.

regulatory changes and upcoming disruptive tech feature prominently in SiGMA. SiGMA has deﬁnitely ridden the gaming wave to great

He’s very keen on recent eﬀorts to make Malta a regional leader in blockchain tech. And he has no time for local sceptics. The tech has pretty clear potential applied to iGaming, but can

eﬀect, but this boom has brought about a number of

be utilised in many other ways. In fact, he doesn’t see it as an

challenges too. I reference some of the challenges – particularly

understudy to the iGaming industry but a potential pillar of the

skyrocketing rent prices and the inability of some other local

Maltese economy in its own right.

businesses to deal with wage inﬂation in a limited talent pool. “It would be totally naïve to say it has been 100 percent

The glee he manifests while speaking about “what’s next” is infectious. Eman has managed to parlay his event-

positive, with no repercussions whatsoever.” Eman concedes that

organisation experience into a key role within the Maltese

there have been some issues. However, he also believes the

gaming scene. While he has clearly beneﬁtted from the gaming

positives have far outweighed the negatives, and cites the

boom, it seems to me he’s also helped to drive it – and is likely

number of non-gaming local businesses that have thrived as a

to keep doing so with his trademark gunning-on-all-fronts

result of an increased iGaming presence in the country.

enthusiasm.

34 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

POP CULTURE

Bert is one of the Sesame Street characters to be joining the fun in Malta.

36 Sunday Circle â&#x2C6;« NOVEMBER 2017

POP CULTURE

Fun and fur come to life SESAME STREET IS, WITHOUT A DOUBT, ONE OF THE BIGGEST EVER PHENOMENA TO ROCK THE WORLD OF BOTH CHILDREN AND PARENTS. NOW, SOME OF THE SHOW’S FAVOURITE CHARACTERS ARE MAKING IT TO MALTA FOR SESAME STREET LIVE, THE ROAMING, INTERACTIVE LIVE VERSION OF THE TELEVISION HIT. RAMONA DEPARES FINDS OUT MORE.

There’s Elmo, Grover, Abby Cadabby and all the beloved Sesame Street bunch – with a diﬀerence. The friends now welcome Chamki, Grover’s friend from India, to Sesame Street in a live show that takes everything that made the television programme so popular and brings it right to theatre, larger-than-life. Yup, Sesame Street Live ‘Make a New Friend’ is coming to Malta and excitement is already at fever pitch among fans to see the ridiculously adorable characters ﬁrst-hand. In true Sesame Street style, the live show takes the themes of friendship, diversity, fun and learning in a story-line that sees the protagonists celebrating cultural similarities, from singing and dancing, to sharing cookies! Produced by VStar Entertainment Group, the show is being brought to Malta by Big Ticket Events. So what is it that has helped make Sesame Street the incredible hit that it is? I put the questions to Wesley Ellul, the man behind Big Ticket Events. “My experience with Sesame Street goes back to the early 1980s as i was growing up in Canada. I remember tuning in almost everyday with my parents, excited to see what they would get up to, and learn something along the way. From learning letters, and reading basic words, to helping me learn how to count, they always came up with a new way to teach a lesson,” Wesley says. The actor and producer also remembers how the shows focused heavily on the educational aspect, with topics ranging from

Wesley Ellul

simple ones – such as sharing and playing with others – to much NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 37

POP CULTURE

more complex topics like explaining what jobs are, how gravity works and even what death is. “In fact, I remember when they tackled the concept of death when Big Bird had drawn pictures of

Our Sesame Street friends are also a lot bigger scale than they appear on TV since, rather than puppets, we use performers inside full-body costumes

his friends, and wanted to give them to all of them, including Mr Hooper, one of the original Sesame Street human

amazing in their own special way. Julia was first introduced as a

characters, played by Will Lee, who had died the year before in real

digital storybook character, as part of the Sesame Street Expanded

life,” Wesley reminisces, adding that the show always found the

Universe, and was an absolute hit, as she was written by a Leslie

perfect tone to tackle the subjects with, with the mix of human

Kimmelman, a mother of a child with autism, along with advisors

adult characters and soft, non-human ones really helping the

and researchers from the autism community.”

subject set in without making it a harsh reality. “I remember growing up of all the favourites we know today, like Big Bird, Cookie Monster, The Count, Grover, Bert and Ernie, Oscar the Grouch, Telly Monster. I also remember the Muppet’s Kermit the frog being a big part of the show.” What was interesting, he adds, is how Elmo grew from a secondary character in the 1970s and early 1980s, starting out as nothing more then a spare red puppet who was initially called Baby Monster. “And look what an international phenomenon he is, today!

In fact, her digital story was such a hit that they introduced her into the show as an actual puppet in two episodes of the 2017 season. Of course, there is also the argument that too much television is bad for children – however, Sesame Street has also been touted as the ‘good side’ of the addictive nature of TV. What is Wesley’s reaction to this? “I agree. My little one can, if i’d let her, sit in front of the tv and watch cartoon after cartoon for hours. My biggest issue with this is what is she learning from it? Certain shows can show a very bratty

Along the way they’ve created some other amazing characters

side of children, teaching them behaviours which are unbecoming.

which kids really love, including the three-year-old fairy ‘in training’

Sesame Street’s focus from day one, is to use TV’s drug-like abilities

Abby Cadabby, one of my daughter’s favourites, as well as Rosita,

to teach children to be better people, more caring and accepting of

the Spanish speaking monster, and many more.”

others and whats more teach them basic skills they will need in life.

Over 1600 characters have appeared on Sesame Street in its 41 year run. The show famously embraces diversity and in 2017 included a character who is on the autism spectrum. “Sesame street has always focused on one core principle, that no matter the race, creed, language, ability, all children are all 38 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

Sesame Street, Wesley agrees, also works well as a support tool for eduction, setting a foundation from which to learn. “My daughter Georgia is three-and-a-half years old and has never been to formal child care. Yet, she can read basic words, count to 20, knows the alphabeth and has some amazing skills

POP CULTURE

when it comes to winning an argument. She has learnt this, all

backgrounds and focuses on what is universal to all kids,” Wesley

without any formal education, but through edutainment and her

says.

parents playing with her.” One other surprising aspect of the show is the way that,

Having said that, the show actually comes in 39 international versions speciﬁcally made for the countries it would be viewed in,

although originating in the US, it has never been perceived as US-

including the German version Sesamestrasse, Dutch Sesamstraat,

centric.

French 1 Rue Sesame, Spanish Barrio Sesamo and Swedish Svenska

“I have been watching Sesame Street with my daughter since she was about one and a half. And besides the accents, it doesn’t look at things in the usual gung-ho American way some kids shows

Sesam. act, Italy is one of the few major european countries not to have opted for their own show but instead dub the US version. Sesame Street Live Malta takes place on November 18 at the

view the states. While it will have the occasional ‘Thanksgiving’

Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta. Tickets are available

episode, or Fourth of July episode, it truly respects that its

online.

audiences, in the US and world-wide are from diﬀerent

www.ticketline.com.mt

It’s all about friendship and kindness! DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION NICOLE WOOD SPILLS THE BEANS ABOUT SESAME STREET LIVE. What is Sesame Street Live? How is it diﬀerent from the original TV show? It’s is a theatrical experience featuring the songs, characters, writer, and educational components of the TV show. It diﬀers in that we create original storylines and produce new music, as well. Our Sesame Street friends are also a lot bigger scale than they appear on TV, since rather than puppets, we use performers inside full-body costumes. This is great for a musical theater experience, since the characters can dance as well as being a good size to see from the audience.

Is it just for children? No, it is a great experience for children and adults alike. We have a stellar creative team who help us to create a show the adults enjoy, too. There are jokes that parents will get, parodies of popular songs they’ll recognise and high-quality lighting and choreography that dazzles. Not to mention, how exciting it is to bring the children in their life to see their

Is the show adapted according to locality?

favourite Sesame Street friends.

Many of the themes in Sesame Street Live ‘Make a New Friend’ are universal: friendship, learning, and kindness.

Do you have a favourite Sesame Street character? If yes, who and why? I am a fan of all the characters! In ‘Make a New Friend’ speciﬁcally, my favourite character is Chamki. She When we

How do you keep the show relevant to today’s kids with an ever-changing lifestyle? The Sesame Street brand allows for us to add in relevant

were developing the show and deciding who would be the

references to today’s culture. For example, there is one song

friend who visits from another country, I suggested Chamki,

where all the characters call each other on iPhones. We also

who is on the Sesame Street TV show in India. The team agreed,

love to update classic Sesame Street songs to today’s musical

and it is always rewarding to see your ideas make it into the

styles, as well as creating new lyrics to current pop songs

show.

everyone knows.

40 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

ISSUES

The skin we live in THANKS TO THE RECENTLY-ENACTED GENDER IDENTITY LEGISLATION, MALTA HAS MADE GREAT STRIDES IN WORKING TOWARDS A SOCIETY WHERE TRANS PEOPLE FACE NO DISCRIMINATION. YET, A LOT MORE WORK NEEDS TO BE DONE. RAMONA DEPARES SPEAKS TO A TRANS WOMAN WHO IS CURRENTLY IN THE PROCESS OF TRANSITIONING AND LEARNS ALL ABOUT HER HOPES, FEARS AND WORRIES.

PHOTO: MATTHEW MIRABELLI

42 Sunday Circle â&#x2C6;« NOVEMBER 2017

ISSUES

“There was always something in my mind that told me

conﬁdence, particularly as my family had no idea that

I wasn’t like other kids but, in all honesty, I could never

all this was happening,” Sasha continues. But, once the ﬁrst step of coming out to her

put my ﬁnger on it.” This is how Sasha Debono describes her journey,

family was done, Sasha found that she really had no

which started around age 13, to identify as female.

reason to procrastinate any more. The next few months

Today, the pre-op transgender woman is 26-years-old

took courage but, Sasha says, the step she decided to

and she has made great strides towards aﬃrming the

take was deﬁnitely worth all the pain and fear.

gender that she feels reﬂects her personality. It is a

“After a few appointments and blood tests, I got

journey that has taken over a decade, bringing with it

the go ahead to start hormone replacement therapy

various challenges and obstacles.

and here I am, about seven months later, feeling the

“It was as a young teenager that I became aware that transgender people exist, and that’s where I

best and happiest I have ever been in my life.” In a way, Sasha was maybe luckier than most, in

started questioning my own identity. I came to terms

that the people closest to her all reacted well to the

with it relatively recently, aged 25, last year,” Sasha

news, the bond with some of them actually becoming

tells me.

stronger.

She explains that the questions started after she

“I can’t say any of my peers abandoned me

started feeling a connection to other transwomen,

because of this issue. Also, it’s so great to have a

even though she had never spoken to any.

group of friends who consider you as ‘one of the girls’.

“These feelings instilled a sense of curiosity in

With regards to family, I can only say that so far, so

me. I did a lot of reading and research about transgender people and I spent years flip-flopping in my head about the issue. Was I really transgender? Or was it just in my mind? This state of affairs continued even after I had told a number of people about it. The details of how I came to terms with it

HeRe I Am, AbOuT SeVeN MoNtHs LaTeR, FeElInG ThE BeSt AnD HaPpIeSt I HaVe EvEr BeEn In My LiFe

and came out is something I’d rather keep private, however.” You’d think that by coming out, Sasha had

good. My parents are still struggling a bit to catch up

surmounted most of the obstacles. However, for most

with what I call this crazy ride. And, most of the time

trans, this part is only the tip of the iceberg and, even

I’m still referred to as a ‘he’ and called by my dead

after they come out to the rest of society, life

name. But that’s by the by. Me being trans is not

continues throwing signiﬁcant hurdles.

reason for them to disown me.”

“Well, basically in reality it took me 13 years to

Of course, we hear all about the hardships that

accept. The ﬁrst step was the scariest thing I’ve ever

trans people face throughout the process of transition

done in my life – coming out to my parents, of course.

– some, even for their entire lives. But it’s not just

But that was not the end of it.”

about sadness and pain. There is also the joy of ﬁnally

Besides the emotional aspect, Sasha also

being able to live the life you had always believed in.

needed to deal with the physical side of things. She

Sasha describes the feeling of being able to express

describes setting up an appointment with an

herself as female as nothing short of amazing.

endocrinologist as the second scariest thing of the whole experience. “There was an onslaught of other medical

“It seems to me like this was the kick-start I needed to start living my life. I’m ﬁnally motivated to do something with myself. Before, I had never

appointments, including psychological and psychiatric

considered a proper career or interest in a subject, but

counselling. My personal doctors were already aware

now I have just started taking make-up courses and,

of my situation, as I had already expressed myself

soon after I’m done with those I will move on to

about it before. Naturally, they had kept it in

studying other beauty-related subjects.”

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 43

ISSUES

Clearly Sasha is extremely excited about this new start that

some other members of the LGBT community. Her wish for a

she has given herself. She describes how she has new goals in life

more inclusive society is for people to actually listen to what

and is even working a dream that she has secretly entertained for

transgender people have to say.

a long time. “I would love to work in the alternative fashion industry, both as a makeup artist and a model,” she says. But, she is also determined to keep her feet on the ground

“If we say something is an issue for us, and then we express how it should be tackled, people should take it seriously. It drives me insane that there are people who aren’t transgender that think they know better about what’s good or not for us. Who think that

for now. Seven months on hormone therapy, she tells me, is still “a

they can tell us how to lead our everyday lives without fear of

very early stage for the whole transition process”. For now, she is

judgement or harassment.”

happy to pursue her new career and to obtain all the academic

Her final word of advice for those who are still going

qualifications that she hopes will help her make a name for

through the ‘coming out’ process is simple: do it. Do it, she adds,

herself.

even if you’re in doubt.

The challenges that still make themselves felt, she tries to

“As for those who already did, you are brave, brave people.

face one day at a time. Gender dysphoria, she confides, still plays

Just continue pushing that pedal to the metal and do what you

a big role in her daily living.

have to do to feel better with yourselves. If you don’t, nobody will

“Certain aspects of my body still get at me when I look at the mirror. There is also the reality that, knowing my parents struggle a bit to come to terms with the whole thing worries me.

for you. Actually, they will probably do the opposite and try to drag you down.” Strong words from someone who has needed to use every

But I know deep down they love me and that eventually they will

ounce of strength she had. But even so, Sasha doesn’t forget to

fully come to terms,” she says.

mention the most important thing.

And, although the more time passes the more our society is gradually becoming more inclusive, Sasha says that there is still a significant degree of prejudice against the trans community – even more shocking, she adds that this prejudice also comes from

44 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

“Surround yourself by people who accept and love you for the person you are.” And that, in a society which is too ready to judge, is everything.

ISSUES

Making sense of the new laws MALTA GAY RIGHTS MOVEMENT COORDINATOR GABI CALLEJA SHEDS SOME LIGHT ON THE NEW DEVELOPMENTS.

What are the biggest challenges that transgender people face in

enough. We know there is under-reporting of such incidents, with

today’s society?

trans persons often choosing to stay silent or to seek other

While Malta has an excellent legal framework which

opportunities elsewhere. I do think, however, that the situation is

facilitates the transitioning of trans persons in society, school and

improving and that more trans persons are taking up further

in employment, being trans still presents some challenges.

education and entering a range of employment sectors which were

Coming out can be difficult, particularly where the trans person

previously harder to access.

faces lack of acceptance by family members. Trans specific health services are currently not available through state health care, meaning that trans persons can incur significant health costs for hormone therapies, surgeries and other necessary treatments.

Recently, there have been changes made to legislation – can you explain what these changes involve? The Gender Identity, Gender Expression and Sex

Even where cost is not an issue, access to the required treatment

Characteristics Act introduces a right to gender identity for all

is difficult. Malta has a limited range of hormone therapies which

citizens of Malta and entitles them to:

are licenced and, if the person requires a different dosage or reacts badly to the particular brand available locally, there is often no alternative. At the moment, it is also diﬃcult for trans children to access puberty blockers. While attitudes within society are changing and there is a greater deal of awareness there is also still a lot of ignorance as to what being trans entails. There are still those who view it as a choice or a mental illness.

– the recognition of their gender identity as determined by themselves – the free development of their person according to their gender identity – be treated according to their gender identity and, be identiﬁed in that way in the documents providing their identity, and – bodily integrity and physical autonomy While these rights apply to all of us, in practice, for trans persons, it introduced a much simpler process to access legal

Do you believe there is still a disadvantage when it comes to employment opportunities and so forth? While anti-discrimination legislation is in place to protect trans persons from discrimination in employment, this may not always be

gender recognition. There is no age restriction to access legal gender recognition although for minors under 16, there is a court process. For those over 16 a simple declaration in front of a notary in the form of a public deed is suﬃcient.

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 45

ISSUES

A significant number of trans people say that an unaccepting society pushed them towards an underground life – do you feel that this is still a reality? trans persons have been over-represented in prison populations. often this was due to early school leaving, diﬃculty in accessing employment and fewer opportunities. trans persons are at much higher risk of being attacked and discriminated against, and often had few alternatives to sex work to make a living. trans people are also more at risk of using drugs and other potentially harmful behaviours.

We recently had cases where children successfully identified as transgender and went on to live a fulfilling life – critics claim that for children it’s too early to know. What is your response to this?

Photo: ShutterStock.com

there is now ample evidence that shows that children can identify as trans from a very young age. Gender identity is generally

What is your advice to young people who identify as

established by the age of 6 and, therefore, it is not surprising for

transgender – what is the first step they should take both on a

trans children to assert a gender that is not in conformity with their

practical and an emotional level?

assigned gender from an early age. While some trans childrens’

there is no one way to come out as trans. each person’s

gender identity may evolve over time, so long as we value all

journey is diﬀerent. however, often, ﬁnding someone to talk to who

gender identities equally and we ensure that children are free to

can support them and provide them with the information they need

explore and express their gender identity as they develop, no one is

can be a good ﬁrst step. this can be a trusted adult, a parent, a

harmed. Generally the three characteristics that one looks for is that

counsellor, a member of the trans community or an LGBtIQ youth

the child’s claim is consistent, persistent and insistent.

group.

HEALTH

MORE THAN SKIN DEEP AFFECTING 2.5 PER CENT OF PEOPLE AND WITH NO PERMANENT CURE, PSORIASIS IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE SUFFERING AND LOWER QUALITY OF LIFE OF MANY A PERSON. LUCKILY, ADVANCES IN MEDICINE MEAN THAT SIGNIFICANT RELIEF AND ALLEVIATION OF SYMPTOMS IS POSSIBLE. SUNDAY CIRCLE SPEAKS TO PROFESSIONALS AND PATIENTS AND FINDS OUT MORE. Although psoriasis is usually associated with

reality, psoriasis leads to a lot more serious

inactivity, the NGO is now back to being

scaly, reddish marks on the skin, in reality

symptoms that are not only superﬁcial but

fully-functional and has grown considerably

this chronic, inﬂammatory disorder is more

also physical. Patients suﬀer constant

during these past years, with a new

than this. The condition has been

itching, joint discomfort, swelling, cracks and

committee headed by someone who also

responsible for many a ruined life, aﬀecting

bleeding around the joints, disturbed sleep

suﬀers from psoriasis. We organise talks and

conﬁdence, social life and even relationships.

and stinging,” Prof Pace says.

oﬀer support throughout interactive

Yet, psoriasis is not just about skin

Of course, the self-esteem issues are

sessions. The idea is to tackle the topic from

appearances, but can actually have other,

also considerable, with patients’ sex lives

a lay person’s point of view and we welcome

more serious health consequences. And,

often impacted negatively, employment

patients to take active part in the

unfortunately, although the condition is

opportunities unfairly aﬀected and

discussion,” Prof Pace tells me.

extremely common and aﬀects around 2.5

socializing seriously reduced.

Psoriasis, he tells me may start at any

“There needs to be a lot more

age, although the average onset tends to

needs of psoriasis patients with regards to

awareness about the condition, for starters

take place around the mid-30s or during

safe, eﬀective and convenient therapies

by teaching people that this is not

childhood. Triggers are numerous and range

remains largely unmet.

contagious. It would make the lives of

from a simple sore throat to certain drugs

school-children who suﬀer from it, for

like betablockers, and stress.

per cent of the population in Europe, the

Dermatologist Joe Pace, founder of The Psoriasis Association of Malta, explains that psoriasis is, in fact, one of the most

example, a lot easier,” Prof Pace continues. The professor would know – as the

chronic conditions, without a cure. However,

founder of Malta’s only psoriasis NGO, he

he adds, it is fully controllable given the

has spoken to hundreds of suﬀerers and

right medicines. Although the benchmark

heard just as many stories.

for treatment goals of psoriasis used to be 75 per cent on the Psoriasis Area and

“I founded the association back in the 1970s. Although there were some years of

“Stressful situations can trigger its onset and, after triggering, can also cause the condition to become more exacerbated.” What about medication? The condition, Prof Pace tells me, is included on the list of chronic diseases, which means that patients are entitled to free medicine. A

Severity Index (PASI), nowadays it is

number of patients can manage their

accepted that PASI 90 and even 100 are the

condition with creams and UV therapy. Many others, however, require stronger

desirable expectations during clinical trials, a

drugs.

goal that is only achievable thanks to recent development of innovative treatments that are not yet available on the Maltese Formulary. “The biggest priority for psoriasis patients is the need for a clear skin. This might sound like just a cosmetic issue but, in 48 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

Innovative medications provide hope to psoriasis patients

“Methotrexate is effective, but the side effects are very dangerous and can even lead to cancer. Then there are the so-called ‘Biologics’, protein-based drugs derived from living cells cultured in a laboratory. Even here, the side effects are considerable, as

HEALTH

ABOUT PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS (PsA) 30% of people with psoriasis will develop PsA1

75-80%

of people with PsA develop psoriasis first2

5-10 YEARS

40-60%

Joint symptoms usually appear 5-10 years after the onset of skin symptoms2

of people with psoriatic arthritis develop erosive or deforming joint complications3

POSSIBLE SYMPTOMS OF PsA INCLUDE:2,3

Fatigue

Tender, swollen or painful joints

Enthesitis

Back and neck pain

Dactylitis

Psoriasis plaques

EARLY DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT ARE IMPORTANT TO PREVENT IRREVERSIBLE JOINT DAMAGE4,5 References: 1. Mease PJ et al. J Am Acad Dermatol 2013; 69(5): 729-735. 2. Mease PJ and Armstrong AW. Drugs 2014; 74: 423-441. 3. Liu JT et al. World J Orthop 2014 September 18; 5(4): 537-543. 4. Gladman DD et al. Ann Rheum Dis 2011; 70: 2152-4. 5. Haroon M et al. Ann Rheum Dis 2014; [E-pub ahead of print].

NOVEMBER 2017 â&#x2C6;« Sunday Circle 49

HEALTH

When psoriasis develops into arthritis Rheumatologist BeRnaRd ColeiRo explains Condition and tReatment. the damage that can be caused by psoriasis is not limited to the skin, but can travel even to the joints. dr Bernard Coleiro explains that warning symptoms that should alert a patient to the possibility of developing psoriatic arthritis include pain, swelling and stiffness of one or several joints. “in these cases, one should seek medical attention as these symptoms may be associated with difficulty in moving the joint. these symptoms tend to be worse on most of these Biologics block a specific – and important – part of the

awakening in the morning, and aﬀected joints may

immune system, the TNf. The immune system is weakened signiﬁcantly

include the small joints of the hands, wrists, knees,

and we do see the resurgence of a strange number of illnesses as a result,”

ankles and feet,” dr Coleiro says.

prof pace says. hope, however, is at hand, as innovative Biologic medications that are

the chances of a psoriatic patient (pso) developing psoriatic arthritis (psa) are between four and

not TNf inhibitors have been developed. These medications, however, are

30 per cent, although the chances increase with the

not available on the local formulary yet, which means that patients are

duration of the psoriasis, and if there is involvement of

having to make do with the other Biologicals, which are less eﬀective and

the nails by the psoriasis.

which cause more serious side-eﬀects. Marisa Borg*, who has suﬀered from the disease for most of her life,

“the time interval after which a patient with psoriasis develops psoriatic arthritis varies, but it is

is one of those who has beneﬁtted from one of these innovative

usually after several years. occasionally, the arthritis

treatments.

even develops before the skin psoriasis.”

“psoriasis aﬀected my life to an impossible degree. When i ﬁrst met

the bad news is that neither psoriasis nor psoriatic

my husband, the condition had not yet been triggered. When it did,

arthritis can be prevented from developing. the

everything changed. i became shy to engage in any form of intimacy; i

condition, dr Coleiro says, is determined by a genetic

stopped going to the beach, even though exposure to sunlight is beneﬁcial;

predisposition that a patient is born with. there are,

i pretty much stopped socializing,” Marisa says.

however, a variety of medicines that may be used to

she adds that she was lucky to ﬁnd a husband who understood her state of mind, but that others are not as lucky as she is. “Through the years, the condition has worsened and i now suﬀer

treat both conditions, resulting in a reduction in the severity or complete resolution of symptoms. a lot of the treatment is similar to that which is used for

from an advanced form. The trigger for this seemed to be my husband’s

psoriasis, dr Coleiro says, and includes tablets as well as

death some years ago, when i was naturally going through a very stressful

injections. “the latter are used for the more severe cases that

The worsening of symptoms meant that Marisa had to start receiving

do not respond to oral treatment. it would be ideal for

stronger medication. With other Biologicals not agreeing with her system

innovative treatment approved by the european

and leading to very strong negative eﬀects, she describes the new one as a

medicines agency (ema) to be available for patients

life-saver.

that are unresponsive to standard of care treatment.

“it works; my psoriasis seems to be in remission and thankfully i have

usually, innovative treatment is not immediately

had no problems with the side-eﬀects, as yet. it is the best thing to have

available in the maltese Formulary but one may apply for

ever happened to me,” she concludes.

such treatment on an individual patient basis through a process involving an exceptional treatment form.”

*name has been changed to protect privacy 50 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

This is a paid feaTure

time.”

CIRCLE PROMOTION

A level of excellence ANNA MARIE GALEA EXPERIENCES TRUE DESIGNER TREATMENT AT DEBENHAMS’ THE BEAUTY CLUB. conveniently situated at the entrance of Debenhams top ﬂoor at The

Tom ford Beauty has gone from strength to strength and the proof of

Point Shopping Mall, The Beauty club is the ﬁrst service-driven,

this is in the cult following it has with people everywhere going crazy

counter concept in Malta. An extension of the already existent

for pigmented lipsticks in their ultra-luxe black and white, gilded

fragrance aisles and MAc cosmetics store, The Beauty club oﬀers a

packaging and Mr ford’s legendary summer collection pieces which

host of luxury brands, some of which have never been available locally

no one self-respecting aﬁcionado would be seen without. The Tom

such as Tom ford fragrances and make up, and also oﬀers customers

ford fragrance line has also gone from strength and Beauty club

the opportunity to have unique and personalised beauty experiences

customers can now try pieces such as Mandarino di Amalﬁ and oud

with trained beauty experts. In keeping with the Debenhams ethos of

Wood which are sure to appeal to luxurious, Mediterranean tastes.

oﬀering quality at aﬀordable prices, customers will receive sterling

Apart from currently being the only company to oﬀer Tom ford

advice on new products that they can ﬁt into their beauty regimes

Beauty in Malta, Debenhams are also the only store in Malta to oﬀer

and complementary product samples for free. customers are also

the prestigious AeRIn fragrance. While Aerin’s name may not

encouraged to visit the store and speak to the beauty experts about

immediately ring a bell, she is in fact the granddaughter of the

how to better use products they have already bought over a cup of

legendary estée lauder and is the style and image director for the

tea or coﬀee.

estée companies. Apart from continuing her grandmother’s

At the forefront in innovation, The Beauty club oﬀers all customers the opportunity to take part in its loyalty scheme and with every €600 spent, you will get €50 worth of products back and

wonderful legacy, Aerin lauder launched AeRIn as an exclusive and luxurious oﬀshoot of the already burgeoning company. Since its launch at the beginning of october, the Beauty club

upgraded beauty treatments in the Debenhams beauty cabin which

has already welcomed hundreds of customers willing to take part in

will be launched in 2018.

what can only be described as a memorable sensory experience

Amongst the vast range of fragrances that one can ﬁnd in-store,

journey and thanks to its great success, Debenhams look forward to

including several scents not found anywhere on the island such as the

introducing a host of further exciting beauty and fragrance options

latest Aerin fragrances, The Beauty club oﬀers customers the

including clarins, lancome and Shiseido. visit Debenhams at The

exclusive opportunity to sample perfume and makeup by Tom ford

Point Shopping Mall today and be part of the ultimate beauty

Beauty. launched in 2006 with the unique Black orchid perfume,

experience!

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 55

STYLE

SETTING THE MOOD A CELEBRATION OF WINTER WARDROBE STAPLES.

The style of a coat or jacket, its length, the texture of the fabric, and the colour all change the story your outfit tells. Lara Coat, Bag: Armani jeans Top, Trousers: Pedro del Hierro Karl All Gagliardi

56 Sunday Circle â&#x2C6;« NOVEMBER 2017

STYLE

Art direction Caroline Paris @ Carolineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fashion Styling (carolinefashionstyling.com) Photography Kurt Paris (www.kurtparis.com) Models Lara @supernova.com Karl Andrew @supernova.com Make-up Jennifer Dimech using Make Up Factory Hair Chris Galea @ Michael and Guy Location The Saint John Boutique Hotel, AX Hotels, Valletta

Grey may not be many people's favourite colour, but it's a great one for coats. It blends in perfectly with many other hues, adding subtle elegance and refinement without detracting from other pieces.

Caroline Paris is a fashion and personal stylist whose portfolio includes television series, local celebrities, magazine work and campaigns. She won the Best Stylist Award at the Malta Fashion Awards three times and currently blogs on www.carolinefashionstyling.com Kurt Paris is a fashion photographer whose technical expertise in lighting manipulation enables him to explore different paths of creativity while ensuring the image quality is never compromised. Kurt won the Malta Fashion Award for Best Photographer these last three years.

NOVEMBER 2017 â&#x2C6;Ť Sunday Circle 57

STYLE

The right anorak provides you with the best of both worlds: protection from the elements and elegance... Ideal for those rainy days when looking smart is still important! Jacket, Sweater: Pedro del Hierro Shirt: Gagliardi Jeans: Modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Own Shoes: Nero Giardini @ Stivaletti

NOVEMBER 2017 â&#x2C6;Ť Sunday Circle 59

STYLE

For that relaxed-yet-elegant look, simply add a collared shirt underneath a sweater. Couple this with a casual blazer and you'll be ready to hit the scene. Sweater, Jacket: Tommy Hilfiger Shirt, Jeans: Model’s Own

Knitted ponchos add a touch of drama and ample amounts of cosiness. All Polo Ralph Lauren @ Bortex Shoes: Nero Giardini @ Stivaletti

60 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

STYLE

As can be seen from the men's jacket worn over Lara's dress, some jackets and coats can easily be worn by all genders, especially when thrown over the shoulders. Lara Dress, Coat: Aramani Jeans Boots: Laua Biagotti @ Stivaletti Karl Jacket, Shirt, Trousers: Gagliardi Shoes: Nero Giardini @ Stivaletti

62 Sunday Circle â&#x2C6;Ť NOVEMBER 2017

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CIRCLE PROMOTION

Love Women’secret? THE BRAND HAS JUST LAUNCHED ITS THIRD OUTLET IN MALTA. THIS TIME, ON TOWER ROAD, SLIEMA! Women’secret recently celebrated the opening of a third outlet, this time on Tower Road, Sliema. After the success of the two other outlets located at the Bay Street Tourist Complex and PAMA Mall, International Fashion Ltd. is now present on the iconic Tower Road. The opening was held at Sqaq it-Torri, Sliema, where Women’secret also launched a capsule of the Halloween collection and gave a sneak preview of the sexy line during a street fashion show. The show, which was the highlight of the event, attracted the attention of passers-by and tourists, and was also attended by a number of bloggers and leaders in Malta’s fashion industry. International Fashion Ltd. also operates Cortefiel, Bortex, and Bortex Women and Children, all located at Bay Street. www.facebook.com/WomensecretMT/ Tel: 2371 9312

Ida Arvenberg

Dorianne Mamo and Frederick Bonnici

Jacqui Losco

PHOTOS: MARIO ABELA

Jacqui Losco, Lara Zammit, Ida Arvenberg, Madeleine Baldacchino

Dyna Spiteri, Noelene Miggiani and Stephanie Xerri Aguis

Stephanie Xerri Agius, Lara Azzopardi and Caroline Abela

Clare Agius and Cliona Muscat

Marisa Grima, Simona Dora, Stephanie Xerri Agius and Yvonne Desira Buttigieg

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 65

MUSIC

Gianni Photo: Kitz KliKz Digitial

it’s the music event that brings together everyone – all ages, all genders, lovers of any genre of music. APS Teatru Unplugged has been going strong for 20 years and celebrations seem to be gearing up nicely. on the bill of performers this year we ﬁnd Narrowlane, Cheryl Balzan, a Pink Floyd tribute Band, Duo Kukkanja, gillian zammit & Rosetta Debattista and Pete & Papps performing together with Renzo Spiteri & gianni.

This is TU’s 20th anniversary – how have you seen the show change and grow through the years? the show’s formula has remained identical to the idea that inspired this event in 1998; six diﬀerent short acts, of diﬀerent genres, all in one event. i think it changed for the better in that it’s technically a much better production and grew with a niche following over the years. So much so, that it’s now Malta’s longest standing annual event.

Can you share some past highlights with us? it’s hard to identify a few acts out of 114 diﬀerent acts spanning 19 shows over 19 years. Yet, each time a particular act or show ﬁnale gets a standing ovation i feel a genuine and immense sense of pride for the performers. Seeing some of them get extra exposure or following after playing at Teatru Unplugged is also a big satisfaction. 66 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

MUSIC

Teatru Unplugged turns 20 IT’S BEEN TWO DECADES OF APS TEATRU UNPLUGGED AND THIS YEAR IT’S BACK, COMPLETE WITH NEW VENUE FOR THIS TIME ONLY. COFOUNDER JONATHAN SHAW TELLS RAMONA DEPARES ABOUT THE JOYS, THE CHALLENGES AND THE HEADACHES OF KEEPING TRACK OF EMAILS.

Red Electrick

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 67

MUSIC

Gillian Zammit

Rosetta Debattista

Duo kukkanja decide since he is musically and

This year brings with it a change of venue – what can you

artistically better suited for this

tell us about that? Should we

role than myself. I do contribute,

expect some surprises?

but in this role I like to take advice.

Correct; the Manoel Theatre is undergoing some internal works

What is the one thing that

and I was faced with a dilemma.

artists have in common?

Miss a year or ﬁnd an alternative

Probably their love of music

venue for this year’s 20th edition.

and their lack of eﬃciency in

The university theatre might not

replying to emails in a timely

have the grandeur of the Manoel

manner.

Theatre. Yet, it’s an interesting Narrow Lane

theatre in many ways. Paul

transform it and design a great stage. On the plus side parking is much easier then in Valletta and we also have extra capacity.

What is your biggest worry/phobia in the run-up to the

Camilleri is also working hard to

show? The one thing that’s always on your mind in case it happens? I don’t worry about potential problems or issues, but the one thing that’s always on my mind is my concern of not giving patrons

When did work on this edition start?

a great night out at the theatre. I am aware that people will have

Renzo Spiteri is not only a regular performer at Teatru

varying likes and dislikes but their overall satisfaction with the show

Unplugged but over the past years he has stepped in as artistic

is a priority for me.

director. We work closely, yet at irregular intervals, immediately from the week we ﬁnish an edition. So technically, we started

How do you describe the soul of TU?

planning this in December last year.

I would like to think that Teatru Unplugged represents a simple, young and free spirited soul which is yet emotionally and

What is the biggest challenge in bringing together an event of this kind?

artistically rich. In a way, I would like it to maintain Nirvana’s memory alive among our community.

Deﬁnitely maintaining a degree of diversity from one edition to the other, without compromising quality.

Do you have any superstitions/good luck rituals for the days of the show?

What is the process for selecting the participating artists like? How do you decide? Initially, Nirvana (Azzopardi) and I would be on the lookout for bands and artists that ﬁt the concept. The eventual selection is then

No, but an important ritual is to make all performers feel good, respected and well taken care of so, they can transfer this positive vibe to the audience. APS Teatru Unplugged 20 is being held on December 14, 15

made on the premise of the whole event as one whole act. Hence,

and 16 at Sir Temi Zammit Hall, University of Malta. Tickets are

we try and balance and select acts that provide diversity in sound

available online and the event is supported by APS Bank, Camilleri

and genres but still create a nice ﬂow from one to the other. In

Paris Mode, Blumerang, Baileys, Olimpus, and XFM.

recent years, and following Nirvana’s demise, I rely on Renzo to

www.ticketline.com.mt

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 69

MUSIC

Ladies and gents, your hosts JOSEF BONELLO AND TRUDY KERR IN THE SPOTLIGHT Have you always been TU fans?

TRUDY: Yes. I’ve been presenting events for

distinctly remember recognising friends

JOSEF: I had always known about it

a few years and this was on my bucket list

seated at the back row. It will suit TU20 to

because I am a big fan of Nirvana

of events I’d like to get involved in.

a tee.

Azzopardi, whereas I had never heard of

Presenting with Josef is bucket list, with a

TRUDY: Having worked on TV and radio

Jonathan Shaw.

spade thrown in. We are close friends as

over the past ﬁve years, particularly hosting

well, so I know it is going to be great fun –

XFM’s The Big Drive Home, I have had the

events which you always want to go to but

but I also know what a great sense of

privilege of interviewing so many bands

never get down to doing so. Friends kept

humour Josef has, and a tendency for

and artist from the local music scene – and

saying what a good show it was, but

throwing in the odd practical joke, so I am

the quality of talented musicians from the

working in the wine trade makes December

also a little nervous!

Maltese Island is incredible, world class. I

Joking apart, this was one of those

can’t wait to see this talent all in one event.

a bit of a packed month so I had always missed it, until 2013.

What are you most looking forward to?

And of course, – I get to enjoy it several

TRUDY: I moved to Malta 11 years ago and

JOSEF: A number of things; the show itself

times over.

have only missed it once since I arrived on

which Jonathan and Renzo design so well,

the Islands. This is the event that marks the

oﬀering an artful blend of relative novices

Any surprises planned from your end?

countdown to Christmas season for me, an

and seasoned performers. The live buzz is

JOSEF: Jonathan is rehearsing Nessun’

excellent close to the year and ﬁrmly

irreplaceable.

Dorma.

marked on the calendar. The music scene

Presenting with Trudy for the ﬁrst

has exploded in Malta in recent years with

time, despite being friends for a long time,

outstanding bands and artists of every

will be interesting. She’s a blonde Essex girl,

genre, and TU makes the most of the talent

‘nuf said (Ed’s note: this is staunchly denied

here.

by the lady herself). A very talented one though, which might sound a tad

Is this your first time hosting? JOSEF: No, I hosted the show in 2013 and 2014.

contradictory I know, but she is. I am also looking forward to returning to Sir Temi Żammit Hall; it’s a very intimate hall which I remember quite well from the early Voices days, when I would

70 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

MUSIC

BEHIND THE SCENES Artistic director RENZO SPITERI gives us A sneAk preview.

“i believe that there are quite a few factors that contribute to tu’s success. i would start with the special synergy that there is between Jon and myself. every edition starts from there, each edition is a new seed, very well looked after by both of us. then there is the whole history of tu, this year in its 20th edition, that established this event on Malta’s cultural calendar through the vision of nirvana and Jon. Additionally, there’s the artistic direction, which has a major influence on the end product. i have filled the role of artistic director for about seven years, apart from the numerous times i have contributed as performer. it’s a known fact that i strive for high-quality acoustic performances that, to meet my artistic demands, have at times pushed and will continue pushing musical boundaries for quite a number of artists. For the 20th anniversary, i wanted to have people who have been part of tu’s history performing on this special stage again. But, as always, i would want to promote emerging talent and also call in familiar faces who are working on side-projects. so, there’s always this mixed pool of talent. i was there playing for the very first edition of tu so it’s quite meaningful to be involved on and off the stage after all these years, shaping each year’s event. i don’t want to reveal too much about this year’s edition, apart from the fact that a lot of thought has gone into it. we want to make sure we give something back to all those who have been following us for so many years, and to all the new faces

works at the Manoel theatre. in some ways that is like starting

too. But i can tell you that it will be a celebration of tu’s

all over again, especially with certain aspects of preparatory

achievements, ﬁne acts and good music.

and on-site work. Jon and myself felt that we needed to go

there have been quite a few challenges along the way, not least shifting to a new venue due to on-going refurbishing

72 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

ahead anyway. there was no way we were going to skip a year, especially the 20th edition!

SPORT

exercising for a better life Five personalities, the Faces oF a eurosport campaign about how sport can change your liFe, reveal how leaDing a more active liFestyle has helpeD them achieve a happier, Fitter anD stronger selF.

Trudy Kerr, TV & RADIO PRESENTER

Can you describe some of the physical

How do you describe yourself?

getting fresh air, being able to climb a hill

Determined, stubborn and very

without running out of breath, improved

fortunate. my story is much more than

stamina or maybe losing weight, from the

just one of getting fit; it is about

moment you take the first step there are

overcoming a condition that has no

tangible health benefits. this year has

known cure through running, instead

seen me focus a great deal more on

of medication.

improving my body strength and heart

benefits? whether it’s going out and

rate, which has also improved my What was the turning point that made

running performance.

you take up running? several things came together at once. it was nearly eight

What do you need to take up the sport?

years ago that a horse-riding incident left

i have a few items of essential gear. Firstly,

me with accident-related epilepsy. i was

good running shoes. there is no way around

struggling to find some control over my

this – what you put between you and the

health outside of medication, which i

tarmac makes such a diﬀerence. then,

somewhat competitive. over time i have

declined to take, and i started running

everything else you can build on: my

developed various interests that i pursue

alongside some of my friends as a

essential kit also includes a garmin watch,

diligently (my wife can recount tales of my

positive response to a nasty personal

my sony walkman mp4 player and

bonsai days, my aquarium days, my

comment from an ex-boyfriend. we then

nutritional gels for the longer runs – along

gardening days, and so forth)…

decided to run a couple of half

with water, of course.

marathons and i opted to apply for

Were you involved in sports before you

the london marathon in 2014 on behalf

Do you do any competitive running? my

started running? i never did any sports in

of the epilepsy society. i had my last

main goal is full marathons. i love the physical

my life till i turned 45. in fact, i used to tease

seizure in February 2014 and am

discipline, but also the mental challenge of

my friends who were active and suﬀered

fully recovered, without ever having

running 42 kilometres. i’m not particularly fast

the occasional sports injury, telling them

taken medication.

so distance is more of my interest.

that the medical profession had to create a department to treat people who do sports.

How have you seen your life improve? no one could have predicted that

Joseph Debono, surgeon

What was the turning point that made you

long-distance running would cure

How do you describe yourself? i am a 50-

take up running and how long has it been? a

accident-related epilepsy. other benefits

year-old man and, till i reached my 40s, i

number of things came together when i

are fitness, health, meeting people,

had focused on studying and training for my

turned 45 that made me rethink my life. i was

forging new friendships and travelling to

career as a surgeon and then building up a

grossly overweight, feeling tired and not

amazing places to run incredible races.

practice. i am very determined and

sleeping well. my father had his ﬁrst heart

74 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

SPORT

problems at the same age and colleagues of

on into my work where I found I can work

supervision by a competent person who can

mine were having health problems of their

more eﬃciently and can tolerate better the

guide you on technique and the right gear

own at the peak of their career. That same

long hours of standing during surgery.

to wear – such as running shoes if taking up running. If you train badly, especially if you

year, my wife, who had already embarked on a weight-reducing exercise and healthy lifestyle,

And emotional ones? Exercise gives you a

are older, you are more likely to get injured

ran her ﬁrst half marathon. As I saw her cross

natural high, and this has been proven

and give up, or take long to recover.

the ﬁnishing line, the look of satisfaction and

scientiﬁcally. 'Happy hormones' are

achievement on her face was indescribable.

released and, from personal experience, I

Do you do any competitive running?

can guarantee that they do work. My

Competitions and events are the milestones

How have you seen your life improve?

competitive nature is also satisﬁed well

in my training. I usually decide on an event I

Apart from the physical-, health- and

with exercise: you are always working on

am going to participate in, set a target

psychological-related beneﬁts, I have also

improving on your previous performance

(whether it is the desired ﬁnish time or just

met a group of genuine and good people

or doing better than expected on a bad

completion) and train for it. I participate in

who love sports and I have become friends

day. Although there is also an element of

most of the Sunday running races organised

with a number of them.

inter-marital competition too...

by the diﬀerent local running clubs; apart

Can you describe some of the physical

What do you need to take up the sport?

particular race from one year to another, I

benefits? Beyond from the signiﬁcant

Motivation and persistence. I suggest trying

love the shiny medal at the end and the

weight reduction, there is also the increase in

diﬀerent things and focusing on what you

ﬁnish photo, and have accumulated quite a

physical strength and stamina. This carried

like doing most. I also recommend

number of them over the last few years.

from trying to improve on my time on that

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 75

SPORT

Mark Lewis, fitness instructor

on my endurance. My son wanted to change

myself as an active person. Well, unless you

sports, so we stopped kick-boxing but I

consider talking to be a sport, which I was

How do you describe yourself? From a very

never stopped running.

always very active in!

self-esteem I have become a more social

What was the turning point that made you

person who loves a good challenge.

take up running and how long has it been? I

take up running and how long has it been?

shy introverted person with extremely low

continued running on my own, and followed

I started running because I felt sick and

Have you always been into sport? I’ve

a lot of athletes until I took the plunge and

tired after giving birth to my second child.

always had a passion for sports. Football

plucked up the courage to compete as part

But it was not until six months later, when I

was my passion at ﬁrst, until I injured my

of a team in a triathlon race. I will always

was diagnosed with cancer, that I decided

knee badly and had to stop. After that, I did

remember that day.

to run more. I remember quite clearly how,

years of strength training at the gym and

as I was coming out from Sir Paul Boﬀa How have you seen your life improve? I

Hospital, the thought of leaving my children

went through some pretty tough times and

behind for four weeks as part of my

What made you pick running? I guess the

running used to help me feel better-

treatment made me feel sad and depressed.

turning point was the discipline and training

equipped to deal with the situation at hand,

That evening I did my ﬁrst half marathon. I

endured before a big race together with my

and to feel less anxious about things.

didn’t plan or train for it, but my legs just

teammates and, most of all, crossing that

Sometimes, I even run in the middle of the

didn’t want to stop.

ﬁnishing line and hugging my wife and

night to calm down and deal with anxiety.

attended a few martial arts sessions.

baby, Hope.

Can you describe some of the physical What do you need to take up the sport?

benefits? Since I started exercising, I have

How has your life changed? My life has

The only thing you need to do is persist. I do,

lost about 12kg and dropped two sizes. In

improved greatly. I sleep early so I can wake

at times, ﬁnd it diﬃcult to wake up and run,

general, I feel more toned, too. It is not easy

up and enjoy my morning runs or cycling. I

like when it is cold or extremely hot. But

to lose weight with my type of cancer as it

also made loads of friends who share the

when I think about how good I will feel after,

messes up your metabolism, so I’m quite

same love for the sport, especially my

compared to the bad feeling I have

pleased with my results.

teammates.

throughout the day when I am being lazy,

What do you need to take up the sport? All

there’s no contest. Oh, and good running

What do you need to take up the sport? I

shoes, of course.

don’t really need a reason; when I move I feel

you need to do is believe in yourself. When I

happy, in fact, on some days, I just go for a

apply for a tough race, I always say to myself

Do you do any competitive running? I ran

long walk. After surgery, I just step on the

that I have been through worse things in the

some 5k and 10k race, as well as three half

spot for an hour. I think the most important

past… So, as long as I am healthy, ﬁt and

marathons and three full ones. The latter are

thing is to incorporate small movements in

have my mum, wife and Hope to support

my greatest achievements personally, as I

your day.

me, I am deﬁnitely crossing that ﬁnish line.

know how hard I had to work hard and how

Claire Agius Ordway, TV presenter How do you describe yourself? A normal

many miles I had to run to prepare myself

Nothing in this feature should be construed

for the actual day. A full marathon was

as medical advice. Always take your

indeed a life-changing experience as it

doctor’s advice.

made me realise that I was capable of doing anything I put my mind to.

working mother, juggling things as best as I can but always trying to come up with new ideas and concepts to work on, that keep me going, excited and motivated.

Line Young Peteri, ENTREPRENEUR & BLOGGER How do you describe yourself? Curious,

Were you involved in sports before you

direct, strong-minded (and -headed) and

started running? At a young age I was

honest.

pretty lazy. I used to run – not really enthusiastically – to keep my dad company.

Were you involved in sports before you

When I had my third child, I started

started running? Well, when I was young, I

accompanying my son to kick-box classes.

did. In fact, I have been dancing since I was

As I grow stronger, I started running to build

four years old, but I wouldn't have described

76 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

According to the European Health Interview Survey (2016), Malta stands as the most obese nation in the European Union; while independent research has shown that 51 per cent of the population is inactive… Fronted by Claire Agius Ordway, Trudy Kerr, Mark Lewis, Line Young Peteri and Joseph Debono, as well as the Eurosportendorsed athletes, the #BeTheChange campaign hopes to inspire you to #BeTheChange in your own life!

CIRCLE PROMOTION

MALTA’S BEACHES ARE SOME OF OUR ISLAND’S MOST STUNNING GEMS, AND KEEPING THEM CLEAN AND PRISTINE IS A TOP PRIORITY. RECENTLY, THE ENVIRONMENT RESOURCES AUTHORITY ISSUED A SET OF OPERATING PROCEDURES TO ENSURE THAT CLEANING OPERATIONS ARE CARRIED OUT IN AS SENSITIVE A MANNER AS POSSIBLE.

Pristine when Ecologically responsible The Environment Resources Authority (ERA) recently released a set

form such an important part of our leisure time, especially during

of Operating Procedures related to beach cleaning. These

summer months, issues of litter or other waste that is left on site

procedures are being made available to site managers, beach

abounds. Such debris accumulates on the shoreline, posing a

cleaners as well as the general public, in order to ensure that when

hazard to both humans and animals if left unmanaged. The cleaning

beach cleaning operations are carried out, as much as possible

of beaches is, therefore, an important tool for visitor management

these do not leave a negative impact on the ecology of the site in

and amenity.

question. These procedures are of particular significance with respect

However, insensitive or incautious cleaning methods can be detrimental to the environmental characteristics of beaches.

to environmentally sensitive beaches and will facilitate the

Negative impacts are particularly consequential in areas protected

regulation of the operations that take place on these sensitive sites.

specifically for their environmental value.

The document was designed to capture environmental

One major environmental value is the role played by seagrass,

permitting requirements, whether these are related to nature or

or Posidonia oceanica, which provides food and habitat for a variety

waste, in one section so as to facilitate compliance with

of species. Of course, from a swimmer’s point of view, it can also be

requirements by potential applicants.

viewed as one of the biggest plagues to hit our beaches. However,

The purpose behind this exercise is primarily that of reaching

even when it washes ashore, seagrass continues to serve important

a balance between keeping beaches clean for the enjoyment of the

purposes such as providing a place where sand collects to help build

public and protecting the ecology of the site. Because beaches

beaches and dunes and prevent erosion. This grass also provides

78 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

CIRCLE PROMOTION

nutrients for coastal systems and areas where birds and other animals forage and find shelter. Because of this, as a rule it is always best to leave Posidonia oceanica in place, whenever

The procedures ensure that when beach cleaning operations are carried out these do not leave a negative impact on the ecology of the site

of seagrass. Other beach grooming activities, such as the shifting or removal of sand, pebbles, and natural coastal boulder scree elements; and any form of engineering works, such as sand shifting, digging, trenching, mound formation or

possible, especially during those

the creation of new access-ways are not

months when the weather tends to

permitted by these Operating

be rough. In the latter case, seagrass is essential in order to

Procedures and would need specific permits from the relevant

maintain a healthy sand budget. However, in cases when the

authorities.

seagrass is to be removed, the newly-published ERA procedures lay down that local conditions need to be fully understood and addressed in order to identify the lowest impact techniques. The procedures also include other, more specific sections, on ecological, operational and waste management considerations. An important aspect of the procedures is that they focus on the removal of waste and litter from the beaches, as well as removal

Hexagon House, Spencer Hill, Marsa, MRS 1441 Tel: (+356) 2292 3500 Email: info@era.org.mt Website: era.org.mt

NOVEMBER 2017 â&#x2C6;Ť Sunday Circle 79

CIRCLE PROMOTION

The constant organiser… confessions of a Medbanker A REBRANDING EXERCISE AND A RELOCATION TO THE CENTRE AT TIGNÉ POINT HAVE KEPT THE HEAD OF ADMINISTRATION AND HUMAN RESOURCES AT MEDITERRANEAN BANK EVEN BUSIER THAN USUAL. SANDY CALLEJA PORTELLI TALKS TO LORRAINE BONELLO GHIO ABOUT HER CAREER IN BANKING. It’s Lorraine first day in her new office at The Centre at Tigné Point, Sliema. Her orderly workspace stands serene amidst the bustle of workers frantically putting the finishing touches to Mediterranean Bank’s new head office. “I was scheduled to move next week but I was wasting too much time commuting,” she explains. Pragmatism is essential for the Head of Administration and Human Resources of Malta’s third largest bank. Lorraine’s career started at Mid-Med Bank (now HSBC Malta) and, initially, things didn’t quite go to plan. “Back then everybody wanted to earn their ‘kaxxa’ and become cashiers so I was disappointed when my manager said I should focus on administration instead,” she recalls. It was sound advice and Ms Bonello Ghio was personal assistant to Mid-Med Overseas’ Chief Executive Officer before being headhunted away from the industry. Describing herself as ‘loving banking but not a banker’, Lorraine couldn’t resist joining a

customer services. This bank is constantly evolving and changing, and

new private bank called Mediterranean Bank as personal assistant to

we plan to continue growing, although Malta remains the heart of

the Chief Executive Oﬃcer in 2006.

MeDirect Group providing all the group’s operational support.

“The concept of a private bank didn’t take oﬀ and, in 2009,

“We couldn’t have come this far without the dedication and

Mediterranean Bank was purchased by AnaCap Financial Partners

commitment of our multicultural team. Our staﬀ hails from every

LLP who oﬀered me the role of Head of Administration and Human

corner of the globe and, whilst the diﬀerent cultures can make

Resources. So in essence, I’ve been here since the beginning and the

working together somewhat challenging at ﬁrst, in time we always

family joke is that I have four children: Matt, Andy, Ben and MedBank.”

manage to ﬁnd a suitable middle ground that enables us all to work

In truth, Lorraine has seen the bank ﬂourish along with her children.

well together. Crucially, when we’re working on a project, we come

“I’ve seen the bank grow from one office employing seven people, to having five local branches and a substantial international presence, including a Belgian bank and a London office. We were the

together to work towards our goals, we all become Medbankers… or, perhaps I should say, Medirecters! “Success is a group eﬀort. Personally I know that I couldn’t have

ﬁrst Maltese bank to open a bank in another European jurisdiction –

come this far without the invaluable support of my parents and

MeDirect is our subsidiary bank in Brussels. Earlier on we acquired

children who believed in me, as well as that of my excellent team. On

Charts, our wealth management business, which we will consolidate

a corporate level, I believe it is important to have professionals who

at our new Head Oﬃce. In 2014 we acquired Volksbank (Malta) and

believe in you and enable you to contribute to drive the business

incorporated it under the MeDirect Group umbrella, and, now, we’re

forward, something that has been the key ingredient of the bank’s

consolidating over 200 people from head oﬃce, operations and

success.”

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 81

FILM

Stop all motion! THINK PIXAR-LEVEL ANIMATION THAT WILL HAVE YOUR JAW DROP, AS A SERIES USING STOPMOTION BY LOCAL ARTISTS IS SET TO HIT THIS WINTER. PRODUCER RUTH FRENDO GIVES US THE INSIDE SCOOP. I admit that I am obsessed with movies and animation. I especially like family-oriented and feel-good audiovisual work – they really bring out the child in me! Probably, this was a huge influenced me so much, that I came up with the idea of a group of teddy bears living together in the cutest village on earth. The book series and stopmotion animation will be taking children on a magical journey to open their minds and hearts to find what a beautiful place the world is. Teddy bears of different shapes, colours and sizes live together in the cuddliest place on earth. Each story brings a new teddy adventure that always bears a lesson. The film is made using stopmotion, an animation technique used to make a physically manipulated object appear to Ruth Frendo

move on its own. The object is moved in small increments between individuallyphotographed frames, creating the illusion

animation usually takes between two to ﬁve

of the sets. Additionally, two internationally-

of movement when the series of frames is

years from the development till it is ﬁnally

renowned children’s media advisors were

played as a continuous sequence. Films and

ready to be shown to the world.

also consulted to ensure that the ﬁnal

series that have used this technique include

This is why, even though the

product is a truly special one. One of these

The Nightmare Before Christmas, Caroline,

development for Id-Dinja tal-Orsini started

professionals is a consultant with Pixar and

Shaun the Sheep and Pingu. As far as I

in 2013 and the production of the animation

Disney Animation Studios, so really pulled

know, there is no one in Malta who has ever

was ﬁnished in 2015, the books will only be

out all the stops for this one.

produced any professional stopmotion.

ready this year. The whole team exceeds 100

There were numerous challenges to

The books, which will feature

artists: in a nutshell, the team for the book

augmented reality with stopmotion

this, of course. Twenty-four diﬀerent photos

included a writer, a designer for the book, a

animation, will be launched during the Malta

of animation make up one second. This

designer for the specially made font, two

Book Festival 2017. We plan to show the ﬁrst

means that an average of 432,000 photos

photo editors, a photographer, a

episode will also be shown free-of-charge

were needed to produce just ﬁve minutes of

proofreader and a technical person who

before the start of Malta’s ﬁrst professional

stopmotion animation. Additionally, and

included the augmented reality. Then there

family movie Il-Misteru tal-Għoġol tad-

unlike other industries, the animation

was the input of Mcast, which was

Deheb, which will be in local cinemas at the

industry is unique since professional

responsible for the design and production

end of this year.

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 83

ART

Gabriel Buttigieg PHOTOS: JAN ZAMMIT

Gabriel with his father Alfred.

84 Sunday Circle â&#x2C6;« NOVEMBER 2017

ART

Irreverence BANNED BOOKS, GIANT NUDES AND FIGURATIVE MIDDLE-FINGERS: FATHER AND SON, PLAYWRIGHT ALFRED BUTTIGIEG AND ARTIST GABRIEL BUTTIGIEG TELL IGGY FENECH ABOUT THEIR BOLD WORK, THEIR REFUSAL TO TAKE COMMISSIONS, AND HOW EXISTENTIALISM SHAPES THEIR ART. As I prepare for my interview with Alfred and Gabriel

recounts. “At one shop, the owner saw my illustration

Buttigieg, I can’t help but think of how things have

of the Virgin Mary and was horriﬁed; the Public Library

changed for the two artists since I ﬁrst got to know

never even bought a copy… Even so, it made the

them.

rounds ‘underground’, and many people spoke to me Alfred and I met for the ﬁrst time in 2015, in the

about their relationship with the text. I still remember

lead up to his play Mela Hawn Xi Manikomju?, which

how the headmaster of a lyceum had recorded himself

was staged in March 2016, just a month after Gabriel

reading the abstracts while he was drunk; but it was so

had held his ﬁrst solo exhibition, Paintings. Since then,

personal he wouldn’t even let me listen to it.”

Gabriel, whom I met at the premiere of the same play,

The exhibition, which is entitled Works on Paper,

has had another solo exhibition entitled Nudes and

Babies and ‘Dik il-Qtajra’ Series (the artist hates ﬂowery

he’s now enrolled at the University of Malta, where he’s

names) has been in the works for over a year and

reading for a Bachelor in Psychology. Alfred,

began as a series of spontaneously-drawn pictures,

meanwhile – following a brief period of recovery after

which Gabriel refers to as “snapshots of humanity”.

undergoing a major operation – has started working on

“I read Dik il-Qtajra when I was very young but I

his last-ever play while juggling his full-time job as a

didn’t understand or relate to it that much back then,”

headmaster of a primary school and as the author of

Gabriel explains. “Today, however, I have my own

Malti Manija, the educational textbooks used by

interpretation of it, which I have coupled with Fredu

virtually every child in Malta.

Gambin’s [the main character in Il-Gaġġa] egoistic and

As I sit down for the interview, however, I am particularly excited by the fact that, while they inherently inhabit two very diﬀerent spheres, their

self-centred streak to create this series of drawings and paintings.” Gabriel’s exhibitions have never been for the

father-son bond has brought them together for their

fainthearted – his ﬁrst two featured gigantic nudes,

upcoming projects.

including self-portraits – but this one, in particular, will

For his third exhibition, Gabriel will be displaying

be even bolder as genderless couples turn cannibalistic

a series of works inspired by two literary classics: Frans

in order to conceive, and unborn foetuses are depicted

Sammut’s 1971 psychological novel Il-Gaġġa, and

as bigger monsters than their parents. “We are all born

Alfred’s ground-breaking booklet, Dik il-Qtajra. Of

with a selﬁsh streak, and love-making is a way of

course, while the name of the former probably rang a

consuming the other person,” Gabriel continues. “We

bell, Alfred’s 1983 contribution is less likely to do so, as,

are also selﬁsh in love and never satisﬁed with what we

back in the 1980s, the 24-pager’s perceived obscene

get, be it sexually or otherwise, and that is what I

nature – it was a series of poetic monologues spoken

sought out to explore.”

by a baby before and after birth – led it to be oﬃcially banned upon publication. “I went round to the book shops one by one but was turned down time and time again,” Alfred

Just two weeks after Gabriel’s exhibition opens, Alfred will be publishing the English translations of his collected plays in one volume internationally. The cover for the tome – fronted by a portrait of the author by his son – will bind together Alfred’s four critically-

I’M VeRy AnTiEnTeRtAiNmEnT; I DoN’T WrItE To PlEaSe

acclaimed plays, Ir-Rewwixta tal-Qassisin (1986), Ippermettili Nitlaq (2008), Dwar Menopawsi, Minorenni u Muturi High-speed (2012), and Mela Hawn Xi Manikomju? (2016) – three of which have been translated for the very ﬁrst time.

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 85

ART

The Collected Plays, as it will be called, promises to be a landmark publication for Maltese theatre abroad, particularly as Ippermettili Nitlaq and Dwar Menopawsi, Minorenni u Muturi High-speed were listed among the 120 and 119 ‘best contemporary European plays for the stage’ by the European Theatre Convention, respectively. Ir-Rewwixta tal-Qassisin, meanwhile, which is his most famous, was dubbed “an important turning point in Maltese contemporary theatre” by Dr Marco Galea, an authority on Maltese political theatre, and has become a literary classic studied at University level. “Apart from Ir-Rewwixta, my plays deal with different life stages, including birth, menopause, old age and death,” explains Alfred. “My work can all be boiled down to a line in the Bible [‘I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit.’ (Ecclesiastes 1:14)], which I am sure I misinterpreted when I first read it as a boy, but which has continued to affect and shape what I do.” Trying to find a common thread between Gabriel’s and Alfred’s work is not difficult: they are both existentialists at heart; they both believe that they are the agents of their own destiny. They also both count novelist Franz Kafka, philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, and father of psychoanalysis Sigmund Freud among their inspirations. To that list, Gabriel also adds artists like Amedeo Modigliani, Marlene Dumas, Eric Fischl and Alex Katz, as well as his father’s work and that of singer Leonard Cohen and of Nirvana-front man Kurt Cobain. “When I was 13 and my parents were in the process of separating, my dad would play Nirvana and Leonard Cohen in the car on the way to school, and I felt I could relate to them. They were recounting their own stories and their vision of the world; and I always wanted to do that,” Gabriel reminisces. “That’s why I decided to study psychology, too. I’m fascinated by people’s brains, but this time I want to look at them from a more scientific angle, rather than a philosophical one.” Gabriel and Alfred have one more thing in common: they believe that an artist should be an artist for art’s sake. Over the years, in fact, they have turned down multiple requests to create work for companies and government entities, believing that their work had to remain ‘pure’ and ‘unadulterated’ by contracts, money or time-constraints. “We believe that we are not the best judges of our own work, either,” adds Alfred. “We don’t start from a point where we try to make an intellectual statement. We just say what we have to say and put it out there. I’m also very anti-entertainment; I don’t write to please. So much so, that I find I’m the worst person to talk about my work because so much of it comes through my subconscious. Death, for example, is a recurring theme and I only realise it after I finish a new piece.” Gabriel chimes in: “I agree. People keep telling me to be more intellectual with my art, but it’s not why I do it. Art for me is a ritual, a therapy. It’s a way for me to explore humanity, on my own terms.” What’s certain about Alfred and Gabriel’s art and words is that there are no half measures: Each of their works has come at a great personal price, particularly emotionally. Yet, their belief in art as a way of expressing themselves helps them deal with the world around them, and has brought them closer as a father and son. Works on Paper, Babies and ‘Dik il-Qtajra’ Series, is curated by Michael Fenech and runs between November 22 and December 9 at Iniala5 Gallery, Mosta. The Collected Plays by Alfred Buttigieg will be available in all leading bookshops, as well as on Amazon Kindle, as of December 6. 86 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

We ArE AlL BoRn WiTh A SeLfIsH StReAk, AnD LoVeMaKiNg Is A WaY Of CoNsUmInG ThE OtHeR PeRsOn

CIRCLE PROMOTION

An afternoon with

Marlene Mizzi

SUNDAY CIRCLE IS INVITED TO MEP MARLENE MIZZI’S HOUSE TO DISCUSS HER ROLE IN THE EU PARLIAMENT.

When we ring the bell to Marlene Mizzi’s

she chose based on her career as an

their hometown or a plea to help a parent in

house, the Member of the European

entrepreneur, CULT (Culture, Education and

being reunited with their abducted child.”

Parliament (MEP) opens the door and

Sport), which is based on her passions, and

welcomes us with a friendly yet ﬁrm

PETI, which gives voice to European citizens

Marlene can be quite hectic. Getting there

handshake coupled with a warm smile.

by allowing them to petition causes that

on Monday evening, she normally logs in

they believe eﬀect the EU and its citizens.

three hours’ work between 7.30 and

“Marlene,” she tells us as she introduces herself. “Come in, come in! Would you like a coﬀee?” A haven she now only gets to enjoy for

“My role as vice president of PETI is

Understandably, a typical week for

10.30pm, as she and her assistants plan the

particularly dear to me because it’s the one

week ahead by going through reports, the

that brings me closest to the citizen,” she

week’s agenda and answering e-mails. Then,

a few days every weekend, Marlene’s home

explains. “This committee gives people the

between Tuesday and Thursday, Marlene’s

is a reﬂection of everything that’s important

opportunity to come to Parliament

days are chock-a-block with meetings,

to her. Silver photo frames carry pictures of

themselves and speak to its members. It

presenting reports, mini plenaries, and

her with her family, including those with

gives people a real voice; it allows citizens to

holding shadow and committee meetings.

husband Antonio, daughter Alexandra, and

speak out about what they believe is

grandson, three-year-old Max. The kitchen,

important, be it about pollution in a bay in

“I then head to my apartment in Brussels at around 9pm,” she tells us as she

meanwhile, is stacked with snacks and leads

ﬁshes out some Sicilian delicacies to share

to a bright conservatory that is connected to

from one of the kitchen drawers. “I don’t

the garden, where eight cats – named

cook – I don’t enjoy it and rarely get time to

Poppins, Maddy, Milly, Molly, Golly, Percy,

do it – so it’s usually biscuits and cheese for

Kitty and Red (the latter two of which were

dinner. The week passes by rather quickly, I

named by Max) – get to roam and lounge.

have to admit; but it does get lonely there

Every week, however, Marlene travels to Brussels or Strasbourg for her role as MEP – one which she was elected into some four

without my family… My assistants have ended up becoming my second family! “It’s been a big change in lifestyle for

years ago and which sees her representing

me, in fact... And, while many would assume

not just Malta’s citizens but Europe’s 500

that travelling so much may be glamourous,

million-strong population. “My ﬁrst loyalty

it quickly becomes stressful. But I love what I

and duty is always towards Malta’s citizens,

do and I knew what I was getting myself

though,” she insists, “that is what I owe to

into, so that is honestly just an observation

the people who asked me to represent

not a complaint!”

them.” In the European Parliament, members

Marlene’s role as an MEP, however, does not end with her day-to-day workload.

pick a set number of committees at the

During Malta’s Presidency of the EU, she was

beginning of their mandate, which are then

asked to contribute by holding a cultural

reviewed halfway through. These usually

event, which led to the landmark fashion

relate to the MEP’s expertise or experience,

exhibition The Vocabulary of Maltese Style.

and Marlene forms part of IMCO (Internal

Held within the Parliament Building in

Market and Consumer Protection), which

Valletta at the end of June this year, the

88 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

CIRCLE PROMOTION

Marlene Mizzi

Marlene, as we quickly come to ﬁnd out, is also a champion of animal rights – she’s even been named eurogroup for animals’ Person of the Year in 2017 – and is the vice president of the intergroup for animal welfare (on top of those for tourism, Child welfare, and lGbtiQ+). “in this case, our job is to lobby Parliament to pass resolution or legislation on anything that concerns animals,” she says. “the biggest and most sensationalist of these would be the abolition of bullﬁghting in Spain, but we also discuss ways in which farm animals are to be transported and commission research for more humane ways to slaughter animals.”

“My first loyalty and duty is always towards Malta’s citizens, though; that is what i owe to the people who asked me to represent them” through their work, Marlene and the rest of the committee in the intergroup have successfully lobbied Parliament to lower the number of straight hours any animal can be transported in truck – from 12 down to eight! they are also working on the inhumane way romania is killing stray dogs by using antifreeze following an attack on a five-yearold boy. “while my heart breaks every time i hear the story of that five-year-old boy, cruelty to stray dogs is definitely not the answer.” as our afternoon with Marlene Mizzi comes to a close, we find ourselves pleasantly surprised by the fact that, no Photo: Matthew Mirabelli

matter which topic we were discussing – be it animal rights or her role as an MeP,

exhibition looked at Malta’s fashion between

phone line based in any of the 28 european

roaming charges or fashion – she always

1917 and 2017, with pieces donated by

Member States can travel between eU

comes oﬀ as determined to do her best in

heritage Malta and original designs by

countries and not pay extra for roaming.

the department. and her CV shows that she

Madame Mapfre (who was famous in the

“the process was a long one as all

means business. what surprises us more,

1950s), Maria Fleri-Solers, Charles&ron and

eight political groups within Parliament had

however, is the fact that it was two cats

luke azzopardi going on show.

to agree on the ﬁnal report before it was

sleeping in the chair next to us, not one!

During the Presidency, Marlene, in her

presented to each of the 28 Member States.

role within iMCo, was also instrumental in

thankfully, we managed it, and we’re now

the signing of the legislation that abolished

working on making international calls

roaming charges across europe – a step that

towards any eU country cost the same as

now means that anyone with a mobile

national ones.”

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 89

CIRCLE PROMOTION

DISCOVERING GREENS’ HEALTH SECTION PEOPLE WITH FOOD ALLERGIES, THE HEALTH CONSCIOUS, AND THOSE WHO BELIEVE THAT ORGANIC IS THE FUTURE: REJOICE! GREENS’ HEALTH SECTION IS NOW PACKED WITH ROWS UPON ROWS OF FRESH, FROZEN AND DRY PRODUCTS THAT WILL MAKE YOUR DIET AND LIFE EASIER TO MANAGE. Greens hypermarket has become a pioneer in the industry: its state-of-the-art premises in Swieqi continues to attract thousands of people every week to make the most of the incredible range on offer, the on-site prime butcher and fishmonger, the fabulous dining venue, and, of course, the three-storey carpark that works like aspirin to a parking headache… …But did you know the hypermarket also has Malta’s biggest and most diverse range of fresh, frozen and dry products for people who are coeliac or lactose intolerant? Or that its organic range has everything from eggs and flour to cosmetics and body oil? If not, read on! Greens has gone to great lengths to ensure its customers’ dietary requirements are not only met but exceeded. In fact, on top of employing a nutritionist to help consumers choose the best products for their food allergies and lifestyle – you’ll find them in the health section aisle! – Greens is now also a registered outlet of the Ministry of Health’s Pharmacy of Your Choice (POYC) voucher scheme. Those registered to the POYC scheme, which gives our medically-certified coeliacs vouchers that can be redeemed for gluten-free food, are not only able to find their products of choice, but to discover the many more on offer: from world-renowned brands like Dr. Schar, Quorn, Doves Farm and Valsoia, to numerous brands that are exclusively and only found at Greens. The marvels of Greens’ health section don’t end there, however. Browsing through it, you’ll come to the lactose-free range of fresh, frozen and dry products that will satisfy any dairyfree diet’s needs and cravings. Once again at highly competitive 90 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

CIRCLE PROMOTION

prices – that’s economies of scale for you! – you’ll be hard-pressed

is available on Greens’ website, and the products can be delivered

not to find what you’re looking for.

straight to your door. Nevertheless, if you prefer the adventure of

For those of us who believe in the power of organic, Greens has also created a wonderland that will inspire you to try something new. Don’t believe us? Just check it out: from the

heading to a hypermarket, parking won’t be an issue and there’s plenty more to see and discover at Greens. Interested? Well, Greens is open from 7am till 10pm

staples like eggs and seeds, to sprays and body oil, it’s among the

Monday to Saturday, and 7am till 9pm on Sundays, so you can

most diverse on the island. And it’s set to get bigger, too, as

pop by after work, on the way to the gym, or even before

Greens have just announced that they’ll be adding an organic

breakfast. And, for the loyal customers who have the Greens

cosmetics section in just a few weeks’ time.

Loyalty Card, we have one more piece of good news for you: it’s

Of course, no health section is complete without the more obvious dietary and nutritional products; and rest assured that

accepted at Greens’ Health Section, so you can keep collecting loyalty points!

whether you’re looking for protein shakes or cereal bars, they’re all available. (Don’t be afraid to ask the nutritionist on duty any questions, too – they’ll be more than happy to help!) And, for those looking to make a difference, make sure to check out the largest range of Bio and Eco-Friendly detergents on the island, which will help you safeguard our environment while keeping your house and laundry looking – and smelling – great! The best part of all this, however, is that you can access it all from the comfort of your own sofa or bed, as the extensive range

Greens Supermarket, Triq Il-Uqija, Swieqi, SWQ2333 TEL: +356 21377247 / +356 21383856 EMAIL: info@greens.com.mt

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 91

REVOLUTIONS

Children of the literary revolution

Ahmad Said Abdel Moneim

AS A SUBVERSIVE PUBLISHER IN EGYPT, AND WITH 10 PER CENT OF AUTHORS HE PUBLISHES HAVING BEEN JAILED FOR OFFENDING PUBLIC MORALS, AHMAD SAID ABDEL MONEIM IS NO STRANGER TO CONTROVERSY. HE SHARES HIS THOUGHTS ABOUT WRITING FOR THE LITERARY REVOLUTION WITH RAMONA DEPARES AHEAD OF HIS PARTICIPATION IN THE UPCOMING MALTA BOOK FESTIVAL. Artists in general have a hard time making their voice felt in MiddleEastern countries without risking legal censure. When you’re a subversive writer in post Arab-spring Egypt, the difficulty becomes more pronounced. Ahmad Said Abdel Moneim is one such artist and activist, a writer in times of revolution. One who, moreover, has witnessed the changing creative and political landscape that defines Egypt. Inspired by the likes of poets Frouk Shosha and Salah Jahin; and authors Nagieb Mahfooz, Bahaa Taher and Khairy Shalabys, Ahmad explains how his writing was shaped and influenced by these literary masters. “Egypt is full of creative people such as writers, poets, artists, singers, directors, actors… It is impossible not to be affected by them. My childhood also helped; as a child, I remember my mother’s words that vacations are not just for playing, but also for reading. And she encouraged my brother and myself to do this, buying us magazines and novels. Consequently my awareness was formed,” Ahmad says. As the child grew into a young man, he remembers how he

Ahmad remembers his ﬁrst introduction to the literary world being through reading was Nawal Al sadawy’s work. “Her writing opened the door to the world of literature. I remember reading her short story in Akhbar Aladab magazine,

stopped reading his mother’s socialist books and started reading

which is considered the most important publication among Arabian

centre-right Islamic books. Mother and son started having more

culture press, and promising myself that I wouldn’t miss another

serious discussions. The seeds of activism were sowed.

edition of this magazine. Through this, I got to know about authors I

94 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

REVOLUTIONS

The Arab Spring left a great impact on the cultural scene in Egypt.

had never heard of, authors whose works have been translated across the world. This is how my love for literature was born,” he reminisces. Ahmad started reading Islamic science at college; he was, using his own words, “radical”. He describes how he remembers the literary scene in Egypt as being diverse and bustling. Then, in 2000, a new generation of readers appeared, a generation that he

describes as “unfocused” and as “not belonging to any movement”. “They do not distinguish between best-sellers and literary publications that talk about intellectual and philosophical issues, that delve into the issue of humanity. There are topics that are not welcomed by casual readers,” he tells me. He describes how, even culture editors and journalists, both in governmental or private press, are disinterested.

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 95

REVOLUTIONS

“Most of them only care about supporting their own particular

“Things quietened down after that. As I mentioned, the

‘groups’,” he says. “However, rather unexpectedly, these negative

Egyptian system does not move unless somebody complains

elements still lead to some really good writing by those who still

against a book, author or publishing house.”

care. Writings that I am happy to publish. From the beginning, I

The Arab spring, he adds, left a deep grief in the heart of the

chose the route of the rebel on everything – whether it is language,

creative community. He sees a marked diﬀerence in the works of

style, techniques, issues, taboos or audiences.”

Egyptian writers before and after the revolution, describing the

Ahmad says how he chooses to keep his publications few, to around 75 per year, limiting it to works that ﬁt his ethos. Now, after

latter as “more melancholic and Kafkaesque”. “It seems everyone is injured. Writers could have

some three years in business, the audience has increased and he is

deconstructed and reconstructed the revolutionary scene to grasp

sensing a change on the literary circuit.

what happened, but I think it is too early to do so. I believe we need

“We are moving from ignoring to respecting. I am determined to continue doing my best to spur growth, by gathering serious book lovers with our publications,” he maintains. Politically, is there is an attempt to curb the freedom of the creative arts in Egypt? Ahmad describes the situation as complicated, adding that the legislation is very archaic and allows anyone to complain about an artist for “violating public modesty”. “Anyone can do that and such complaints usually result in jail

many years to pass before we can write about the revolution.” He believes that some types of writings can certainly be the catalyst to bring about social change, particularly works that reveal the face of society and makes us face reality. Literary works, he says, live for thousands of years, unlike their lighter counterparts. “If we want to change society, we have to look for diﬀerent, rebel creators who are not afraid of revealing society for what it is.” Does this mean that ﬁction can help the world better

time for the artist. However, the government doesn’t really bother

understand political upheaval in the Middle East? Not easily. Ahmad

to take action unilaterally, without complaints. Whenever an artist is

believes that the political troubles in the Middle East are

jailed, it is always because someone has ﬁled a complaint. And

incomprehensible even to the politicians themselves.

these complaints can usually be traced to personal hostility. There’s

I ask him about his publishing house’s special interest,

always an ulterior motive. The biggest problem is that the law

subversive literature – what constitutes subversive within the

allows this to happen and authorises government crackdown on

context of the Middle East.

creative arts. The law needs to go, it is obvious,” Ahmad tells me. Shockingly, he conﬁdes that 10 per cent of authors he publishes get arrested at least once. “But till now I have not personally faced any troubles, except

“The Enlightenment is an intellectual movement, and it should be happen without any censorship or limits. Through it, we can criticise social customs and thoughts. And we could attempt to change them to ones more closely related to modern thinking. Societies can evolve

for big libraries refusing to display some of our books, because of

and reach a higher lever when we refuse to stay locked in principles of

‘daring’ thoughts contained within… as they believe,” Ahmad tells me.

the past. There is a need to exchange thoughts and philosophies,

He describes how a leading Egyptian attorney attacked his publishing house, claiming that they are being paid by foreign countries to destroy Egyptian society.

96 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

without hanging on to a past which does not convince anymore.” However, he adds that he is not suggesting we should let go of all of the past, equating such an approach with radicalism.

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REVOLUTIONS

“Writers use their works to tear down all what was The Museum of Islamic Art in Egypt suﬀered a terror attack and was only re-opened recently.

spun in the past by weavers who created myths around it. Our region is rich with myths of history, thoughts and customs, all of which authors need to resist. We have a great heritage, but this does not mean that we should stay tied to the past. And we need many creative minds to break away from this,” Ahmad adds. Has the digital revolution facilitated the work of writers in this endeavour, particularly with respect to making works accessible outside of Egypt? “Not as we expected; digital revolution did not help enough to spread our creative works outside Egypt. Till now there are no serious programs to translate Egyptian books to many languages. If we find a way, the whole world will be given access to our worthy writers

Arab people read to Alex Vella Gera and for Maltese people read to

and authors.”

Nawal Sadawy, and so on,” Ahmad says.

And, while Ahmad says that there is no direct link between

And in the meantime, Ahmad remains is eager to present

the Arabian and the Maltese literary movement as yet, he adds that

Arab and Egyptian writers and authors to Maltese creators, in the

there are a number of connections that will hopefully be developed

knowledge that the Malta Book Festival experience will reveal

further. “One of our most important politicians in modern Egypt is Saad Zaghlol, and has lived in Malta with delegation of Egyptian

Maltese creators and readers eager to build a bridge between Arab and Maltese nations. The Malta Book Festival takes place between November 8 and

politicians. I believe that Malta is more closely connected to Egypt

12 at the Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta. A full

than Europe. However, we have not yet connected on the culture

programme is available online.

level, mostly because of the need of translation. But I really wish for

www.ktieb.org.mt

HEALTH

STARTInG AFRESH! A CASE STUDY: A young professional man would like to have his teeth ﬁxed. He takes good care of himself, is always smartly dressed but never takes care of his teeth. He now wishes to have his dentition ﬁxed and have it look as nature intended it to be.

Extra-oral before treatment

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Extra-oral after treatment

6. Try-in of new restorations. 7. Approval and subsequent cementation of

Treating patients is a professional aﬀair, however, there is a very big personal touch, which is not taught in textbooks. When patients are about to embark on a big dental job they tend to go down one of two roads. One road may lead the patient to the Internet forcing them to go on some Google marathon searching every detail available to help the patient make up their mind on how he/she would like their teeth to be ﬁxed.

new porcelain inlays/onlays/veneers/ crowns/bridges. 8. Restoration of the new implant-retained all-ceramic implant crowns. 9. Review and maintenance plan established.

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Once the treatment commences all those emotions are left in the hands of the dentist to address and deal with while having

this scenario, the patient tells the practitioner what he/she has in mind and then, after

the patient in their dental chair.

having received the best treatment options from the dentist, they conﬁrm which plan

Communication and trust between the

they wish to take on.

dentist and patient become stronger, and a

Either road leaves the patient determined, excited, worried, anxious and full of

friendship is established. The relationship

expectations. More often than not, the desire to correct one’s teeth is associated with a

doesn’t remain only professional, but also

milestone such as their children’s wedding, their anniversary or retirement plan, and

very personal, as the dentist would not want

may often be attached to a ﬁnancial commitment with the bank. This places the dentist

to displease or disappoint their patient. Ask

in a position to have to tick all the boxes on the patient’s list delivering them on time

your dentist!

and up to the patient’s likings or sometimes even the likings of their better half! It is not easy to please all your clients. There is always someone who isn’t happy with the end result. Your only saving grace would be to redo the teeth until the patient is happy. A costly affair! Certain programmes help in visualising the final result. For example, using certain smile design software, a close-up photo of the old teeth is taken and by modifying the colour, shape and character of the teeth, the final result may be seen by the patient. This image may then be translated into a model producing a temporary plastic mock-up to be fitted onto the teeth for a few hours allowing the

Dr Jean Paul Demajo, Dental and Implant Surgeon.

patients to see the new teeth in situ. NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 99

CIRCLE PROMOTION

Spending the day in a caring environment As we get older and the house gets emptier, there are moments in the day when we may wish we had someone around; someone to talk to. We think of going to places but wish them to be safe and secure. Places where we can make friends or meet old ones and enjoy ourselves. The reality is that, the older we get, the more we may find ourselves changing from being very busy and having tight schedules to having plenty of time on our hands. We may feel we have nothing to look forward to or could struggle to fill our days. Children and relatives may be busy with their own lives and families, having little time to visit or provide us with their company. On the other hand, we may still feel the need and long to somehow keep active and involved, meet people our own age and share our experiences with them. To wake up in the morning having something to get dressed for. Simblija Care Home acknowledges

With an already well-established

the fact that there are elderly people with

reputation for good-quality care and

nostalgia for such interaction and

services, Simblija has the right mix to

involvement. It recognises that some

provide such packages within safe, secure

elderly people may not be ready to move

and beautiful environments. Bringing loved

into a care home as yet, but that they need

ones to Simblija for the day could help

ways to ﬁll their time during the day – apart

support families and put their minds at rest

from staying at home, where they may feel

in the knowledge that their loved one is in a

solitude and loneliness. There may also be

safe, comfortable environment, being cared

families or spouses who may struggle to

for through the right services, and enjoying

support their loved ones during the day

themselves thanks to the myriad of

and are worried about their well-being, or

activities on oﬀer.

who feel guilty about not being able to

and aim to oﬀer a great, all-round experience to anyone attending.

The day care centre at Simblija oﬀers

provide them with the company they need.

half-day or full-day packages, which

The new Day Care Packages at Simblija

include food and refreshments, as well as

Simblija Care Home, Triq il-Forga,

Care Home have been designed with all

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this in mind, tailored speciﬁcally to

for mental, physical and spiritual well-

involving the elderly in a community of

being. The packages are coordinated by

active aging.

our experienced activity and events team

100 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

Web: www.simblijacarehome.com Tel: 2235 1000

CIRCLE PROMOTION

Alex Thomson Racing meets Malta's Press On 18 October 2017, Royal Malta Yacht Club members mingled with the press at a breakfast event hosted at the BOSS Store in St Julian’s, to officially welcome British skipper, Alex Thomson Racing to Malta, ahead of his highly-publicised participation in the Rolex Middle Sea Race. Thomson, who has been officially supported by HUGO BOSS for over a decade, engaged in an enthusiastic Q&A session led by news-anchor and philanthropist Keith Demicoli. Guests heard about Thomson’s life at sea, key motivators and struggles, along with the relationship between him and the renowned fashion label, BOSS. The morning closed with an informal meet and greet, with signed limited-edition Alex Thomson BOSS merchandise offered as a special memento.

Kevin Grech and Janice Bartolo

HUGO BOSS hosts brunch

Vincent Farrugia, Alex Thomson and Michelle Farrugia

Matthew James Smith, Dana Bonello and Nicholas O’Leary

Keith Demicoli

Pierre Lindh and Alex Thomson

On Saturday 21 October, selected guests

Live entertainment elevated the atmosphere,

gathered at the War Memorial in Valletta to

and the gorgeous venue was specially styled

celebrate the participation of world-class

by Satariano Home, making it all the more

sailor and HUGO BOSS brand ambassador,

sumptuous. The highlight of the morning,

Alex Thomson in the prestigious Middle

however, was the magniﬁcent view

Sea Race. The exclusive party, which was

enjoyed by guests as the HUGO

hosted by iconic fashion brand HUGO

BOSS racing yacht gracefully

BOSS, has been billed as among the

exited the Grand

most fabulous of 2017. The distinguished

Harbour.

crowd was escorted to the venue in chauﬀeured Mercedes-Benz cars, and was treated to free-ﬂowing Veuve Clicquot, oysters, caviar and foie gras. Sarah Zerafa, Line Young Peteri, Christabelle, and Daniel Azzopardi wearing BOSS

Graziella de Cesare

Sean Gravina and Taryn Mamo-Cefai

Guglielmo Pontoglio, Jesper Gustafson, Nathalie Farrugia and Michelle Farrugia

Kira Drury, Jean-Marc Pace, Bettina Aquilina and Ana Attard

NOVEMBER 2017 ∫ Sunday Circle 103

• 1-5 Health&Beauty by Brown’s adds new aesthetics and cosmetic services to their extensive beauty portfolio. The oﬃcial launch took place at The Point on Wednesday 11 October. • 6-8 Pharma MT Ltd. presents the Catrice Cosmetics autumn/winter collection at the Panorama Lounge in Valletta.

PA P APA AP PA RAZZII

• 9-11 Science Of Wine Tasting Session held last month at the Esplora Planetarium in Kalkara. • 12-13 Guests at The Centre at Pjazza Tigné, which has opened for business and boasts a beautiful art gallery on the ground ﬂoor – Iniala5. • 14 Employees of the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) held an extra dress down day with all staﬀ wearing pink, to help raise awareness about breast cancer prevention, research and equipment. ERA employees collected funds to support this initiative.

Alfred Zammit, Eileen Montesin and Mark Haber

Grazielle Camilleri, Dr. Natalie Hammer and Katrine Agius

Patrick Nicholl, Senay Gadeke, Mandy Nicholl, Daniela Micallef and Enggar Harjanto

David Montebello and Caroline Seychell

Danny Drinkwater and Jankarl Farrugia

104 Sunday Circle ∫ NOVEMBER 2017

Alexander Fenech, Adrian Delia and Robert Spiteri

Venita Magro, Marise Pace, Doris Magro, Isabelle Borg Magro and Silvia Grech

Daniela Borg, Daniela Micallef, Danica Vella and Chelsea Bonavia

William Rizzo and Daniel Sciberras

Tiziana Ceci, Claudia Calleja, Robert Spiteri, Francesca Fenech Conti, Moira Palmier and Alexander Fenech

Theresanne Sammut, Lara Azzopardi, Daniela Micallef, Marija Debattista and Dorianne Mamo

Andrea Calleja, Letizia Vella, Charmaine Borg and Stefania Calleja

Gemma Monclus, Maria Galea and David Curmi

Mark O’Neill, Alan Borg, Kevin Mercieca, Michelle Piccinino, Louise Spiteri, Daniel Cilia, Darrin Stevens, Aimee Brincat, Benjamin Deguara and Gilbert Gauci