FEBRUARY 2019 – ISSUE NO. 288
NOT VICTIMS, BUT SURVIVORS Leaving domestic abuse in the past
VAMPIRE BLOODLUST HITS OUR STAGES ALEX MANCHÉ Cardiac surgeon and pianist
Fully-interactive digital edition. Download TOM Mag from Apple Store or Google Play.
SARAH ZERAFA Staying on top of the game
CONTENTS COVER STORY 10
TAKE A CHANCE An exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at Chanel’s latest campaign.
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WHEN DREAMS COME TRUE Following her most successful year to date, model and influencer Sarah Zerafa chats to Iggy Fenech about her childhood, her rise to fame, the controversies, and her future plans.
ART 30
T H E AT R E
HOW ABSTRACT CAN YOU GO? Maureen Saguna catches up with artist James Vella Clark ahead of his upcoming exhibition.
PEOPLE 36
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HUMOUR 44
19
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WHEN BUFFY MEETS TWILIGHT Just in time for Valentine’s season comes a play that promises to deliver sex, bloodlust and hot vampires. Anabel Attard interviews Stephen Oliver, who will be bringing to the Maltese stage an original script by Unifaun Theatre – The Acrobat. And, in true Unifaun fashion, controversy is guaranteed. SHAKESPEARE, AS WE LIKE IT Polly March leads a young and enthusiastic cast into what sounds like an intriguing take on the Bard’s classic, Two Gentlemen of Verona. Interview by Anna-Marie Galea.
THE PIANO PLAYING HEART SURGEON Alex Manché is known as one of the island’s top cardiac surgeons but he also makes time for his other passion: playing the piano. Ahead of his performance in the upcoming Folly, Fantasy and Feeling fundraiser later this month, he chats to Anabel Attard about how he effortlessly blends medicine and music.
30 RECIPES 50
ENVIRONMENT
6 WAYS THE MALTESE DO VALENTINE’S Steve Hili charters the hilarious ways that us Islanders do love.
ISSUES 46
NOT VICTIMS, BUT SURVIVORS Maureen Saguna meets up with some of the brave women at SOAR, a service led by those who went through domestic violence and who are now helping others rebuild their lives.
54 54
STYLE 22
THROUGH HER EYES For blogger Dorianne Mamo every day brings new challenges and adventures with it, but they’re certainly easier to manoeuvre when seeing clearly with her sighted glasses from O’Hea Opticians. Iggy Fenech finds out more.
THIS PUBLICATION IS BEING DISTRIBUTED AS PART OF:
LET’S MAKE MARMALADE! By Pippa Mattei. Photos by Rachel Zammit Cutajar
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SUSTAINABILITY MATTERS – THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX The Cliffs Interpretation Centre in Dingli brings together culture, ecology, lifestyle and history to foster an ethos of sustainability.
REGULARS 02 04
A word from the editor C Body
Send your letters to: Ramona Depares, executive editor, Sunday Circle, Allied Newspapers Ltd, Mrieħel, 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.
A WORD FROM
the editor
So 2019 kicked off for me with a rather unsavoury tooth extraction.
I carried on like a spoilt brat for a couple of days, telling
Unsavoury, because I let it get bad enough to make it a pain for my
anyone who would listen that I missed ‘real food’. And then I
poor dentist to do his job, of course. Is there anyone who actually
chanced upon an online news item – because even when drama
does those routine check-ups, without waiting for Armageddon to
strikes, my nerd instincts still win out – explaining how the world’s
hit? Happily, my dentist is rather amazing at what he does and the
26 richest people now own the same wealth as the poorest half of
procedure was carried out with the least drama possible (ahem).
humanity. And I was gobsmacked by just how spoilt and
The aftermath, however, was a different kettle of fish.
unappreciative I had become. I’m going to go out on a limb here,
I emerged from the clinic ready to take on the world, smugly
and posit that the majority of us view the smallest disruption to our
laughing off warnings about “some possible pain and the need to
life, the most temporary and meaningless ‘deprivations’ as
rest”. And I went straight to the office, wondering what sort of
catastrophic. I know I do.
wusses need to take the day off because of a mere tooth
Then this Oxfam report comes along to shame us all. None of us count themselves among the 26th richest of the world (if you do
extraction. This feeling that I was about to conquer the world lasted
and you’re reading this, do drop me a note, etc etc) – but the
precisely until the anaesthetic wore off, an hour and a half later, by
likelihood is that none of us count ourselves as being part of the
which time I was ready to die, kill someone, or preferably both. I
poorest half of humanity, either.
scuttled away from the office and spent the entire afternoon and
In short, we have it good. So does it cost so much, to share
evening not-quite-sleeping, not-quite-doing-anything and generally
what we have with others who don’t have it? We’re known to be
just feeling sorry for myself.
generous with our money, especially when there’s a TV camera to
The feeling persisted until the next day, when the pain was
document this generosity. It costs even less effort to be nice to
still making itself felt and when – tragedy – I couldn’t eat real food.
those who are guests in our own country after having escaped a
I mean, there were all these leftover panettoni staring me squarely
bad situation in their own home. To donate just a little bit of what
in the eye, as if to ask what the hell I was waiting for. Pizza cravings
we have to those who need it more than we do.
also took over. You can see why my January diet is invariably a
It’s certainly not going to break the bank, and it might mend a few lives.
massive fail, incidentally.
INFLUENCER SARAH ZERAFA EXCLUSIVE VIDEO INTERVIEW ON TOM MAG!
PHOTO: MATTHEW B. SPITERI
Sunday Circle is back with extra content, extra interactivity and extra fun thanks to the new edition of our digital version, available for free via TOM Mag. This month, top influencer Sarah Zerafa gives us an exclusive video interview where she discusses the trials and tribulations of staying on top of the digital game. There are also some fabulous competitions with prizes that are guaranteed to give a great start to your new year. Taking part is so easy, you don’t even need to send emails or use snail mail – just a click on the right button and you’re in with the chance to win. You know what you have to do, head over to TOM Mag App right now. Meantime, if you are still unsure how to get to all the fabulous content, the TOM Mag digital app is available both through the Apple Store and Google Play. So, if you have not yet done so, simply download the TOM Mag App and click on the February MAG edition of Sunday Circle. Enjoy! And if you’re social media freaks like us, follow us on Instagram by looking up @SundayCircleMag, and on Facebook!
TOM
PUBLISHER Allied Newspapers Ltd.
PUBLICATION SALES MANAGER Renée Micallef Decesare
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Ramona Depares
COVER Sarah Zerafa - Dress by Luke Azzopardi; Earrings by Breil; ring by Fossil; Bracelet by Ted Baker. Shot at Belvedere Tower, Lija. Photography: Matthew B. Spiteri
DESIGN Joseph Schembri ASSISTANT EDITOR Iggy Fenech
2 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Iggy Fenech, Ramona Depares, Pippa Mattei, Rachel Zammit Cutajar, Kristina Cassar Dowling, Maureen Saguna, Anna Marie Galea and Anabel Attard
178, MARINA STREET, PIETÀ | ST ANNE STREET, FLORIANA TEL: 2010 3715, 2010 2949 WWW.VICTORAZZOPARDI.COM
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CARVEN DANS MA BULLE This fragrance is a mischievous girl who walks arm-in-arm with fashion, with a result that is as joyful as it is celebratory. Dans Ma Bulle’s oriental powdery floral composition is developed by perfumers Patricia Choux, Violaine Collas and Veronique Nyberg. The top notes are fresh, floral and fruity; the heart is powdery and floral; while the base is warm and woody. Exclusively distributed by Chemimart, Tel: 2149 2212.
Win a 100ml EDP bottle of Montblanc Explorer or a 100ml EDP bottle of Carven’s Dans Ma Bulle through the digital edition of Sunday Circle, which can be downloaded through the TOM Mag app.
1. OUT OF THIS WORLD 1
2
Mugler’s new perfume is an imaginary divine flower blossom in the heart of the desert that opens to reveal the Alien Flora Futura and its floral-woody composition. The top notes, named ‘crackling revelation’, feature the hand of Buddha accord – a little tree that gives fresh, crispy and sparkling notes. Available as a 30ml and 60ml Eau de Toilette; Exclusively distributed by C+M Marketing Ltd., Tel: 2142 4079/80.
2. REHYDRATE WHILE SLEEPING Shiseido’s intensive gel moisture wrap is inspired by Washoku (a Japanese food tradition) and has been formulated using specific ingredients to help balance and build the skin’s resistance to problems. It hydrates it while targeting oiliness and pores overnight! Dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic, and paraben-free, the WASO Beauty Sleeping Mask is suitable for all skin types. Shiseido is exclusively represented by C+M Marketing Ltd., Tel. 2142 4079.
3. THE ESSENCE OF A WOMAN Girls Can Do Anything becomes the name of Zadig et Voltaire’s signature trail; the perfect incarnation of new femininity: free, uninhibited and impertinent. A bold fern twisted by the delicate pear/tonka bean duo and exalted by a musk-infused vanilla; an ode to olfactory liberation. Available in 30ml, 50ml and 100ml editions. Zadig et Voltaire is exclusively represented by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel. 2142 4079.
4. A WINNING FORMULA 3
4 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate is enriched with squalene, evening primrose oil, Omega-6 fatty acids and various essential oils to moisturise dehydrated skin. The formula penetrates the skin surface and is designed to work overnight to leave skin hydrated, supple and soft. Kiehl’s products are available from 39 Melita Street, Valletta.
4
NEWS
Could you be one of our winners? HEAD TO THE FEBRUARY EDITION OF SUNDAY CIRCLE DIGITAL TO FIND OUT! With the TOM Mag app reaching
print version does, as well as
over 8,000 downloads since
extended articles, exclusive
hitting the web last October, the
videos and lots of extra
digital version of Sunday Circle
photos… Oh, and interviews
has been going from strength-
with our eight lucky winners,
to-strength. Indeed, we received
too!
over 2,000 entries for our eight
But don’t worry if you
competitions running between
didn’t win or haven’t tried your
November and December.
luck yet… There’s more to be
These numbers are
won in the current and future editions of Sunday Circle
amazing – as Malta’s first fullyinteractive digital magazine, this
€1000 from Victor Azzopardi Jewellers
digital. To enter, simply
was an experiment that excited
download the TOM Mag app
and terrified us in equal measures.
continue publishing online, but has also
through the App Store or Google Play
Nevertheless, your consistent support
reminded us of why we love what we do!
straight to your phone or tablet!
throughout these past five digital issues hasn’t just given us the courage to
The new digital edition is now out, and it features all the wonderful things this
CIRCLE VALENTINE’S COMPETITION
Find out more at www.tom-mag.com
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To enter the competition, head to the February
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FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
7
NAXXAR | VALLETTA | SLIEMA
WWW.VASCAS.COM.MT
CELEBRITIES
When dreams come true FOLLOWING HER MOST SUCCESSFUL YEAR TO DATE, MODEL AND INFLUENCER SARAH ZERAFA CHATS TO IGGY FENECH ABOUT HER CHILDHOOD, HER RISE TO FAME, THE CONTROVERSIES, AND HER FUTURE PLANS. As we get ready to start our shoot, the little pockets of sunshine making their way through the cloudy sky disappear. We all clutch at our jackets trying to keep warm but there is no such comfort for Sarah as she puts on one sheer dress after another and braves the elements in the pursuit of a good shot. At one point, the model and influencer is so cold her teeth start chattering. But the moment someone points a camera lens at her, her body contorts into a pose, her head tilts upwards, her eyes grow rounder, and her lips form a perfect pout. See, for Sarah, being in front of the camera is like being on stage: nothing matters but the performance at hand. Indeed, the transformation from girl-next-door to model is so instantaneous and dramatic that it almost feels like a fight-or-flight situation – and the reason why becomes clear as we start talking about her childhood. “I got bullied a lot,” the 23-year-old reveals. “It was a really difficult time for me, but I found solace in watching modelling shows like America’s Next Top Model. So, in the years that followed, I used to borrow my mother’s camera and dresses, go up to the roof, and try out of different poses… Any pictures I liked, I edited (rather badly, I must say) and posted them on Hi5 [a social media platform that pre-dated Facebook]. “I used to take it so seriously,” she laughs, “I used to pin the dresses back, set the timer on the camera, shift position to get the best lighting… It must have looked really funny, but I absolutely loved it and was convinced that, one day, I’d be able to do it full time; although my mother at the time kept insisting I should focus on my studies.” Capturing photos, it seems, was an escape for Sarah back then. Yet little did she know that all that excitement and commitment would see her on a billboard at age 13, and become an international influencer with over a 150,000 followers and a reach of millions less than a decade later. Those 10 years were quite a roller coaster ride for the young star. In 2015, she won TVM’s Venere, which opened the doorway for her into the fashion scene. Just a few months later, however, disaster struck when
10 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
For Sarah, being in front of the camera is like being on stage: nothing matters but the performance at hand
CELEBRITIES
Tuxedo jumpsuit by camilleriparismode Atelier Bracelet by Breil; Earrings by Armani
Photography Matthew B Spiteri Jewellery Sunlab Make-up Jennifer the Make-Up Artist Hair Marielle Calleja for Privè Nails Maria Ferrando Shot on location The Belvedere Tower in Ħal-Lija, which, as Mayor Magda Magri Naudi explained, is set to be restored by the Malta Tourism Authority and the Lija Local Council after the Planning Authority gave permission for the works to go ahead.
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
11
CELEBRITIES
Dress by Luke Azzopardi Bracelet by Breil
Sarah was in an accident involving a dog. Such was the degree of damage that she had to undergo a three-hour reconstructive surgery on her lip. The story at the time made the rounds as a Facebook post by Sarah explaining her silence was picked up by the media. Going viral within a few hours, fame and notoriety followed, along with cyberbullying, threats and eye-rolls. “It was at this point that my mother told me that she would do anything in her power to help make my dream come true.” Four years on, Josette is Sarah’s official Instagram photographer, juggling her full-time job as a nurse at Hospice Malta with Sarah’s demanding schedule as a full-time model and influencer. Needless to say, it was also at this time when Sarah recorded her now infamous Time to Eat commercial, which has spawned countless GIFs and memes, as well as the ‘Hungry and fancying take away?’ catchphrase that’s even been used in pantos.
Trousers and crop top by CHARLES&RON Earrings by Armani; bangle by Skagen; bracelet by Fossil; watch by Armani Exchange
12 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
CELEBRITIES
“I didn’t even know I was going to speak during the advert!”
It was during this time that Sarah met one of her closest
she recounts. “I got the lines on the day, and I just did it. I knew it
friends, Dawn, who now helps her create her How To Style
was going to be on Facebook but I assumed you know, maybe a
videos – one-minuters that show Sarah styling an item of
few times. Then, a year after filming it, it was popping up again
clothing in various ways. So successful have these videos been
every 10 minutes on YouTube, Facebook, Netflix… I was so annoyed
that by the fourth one American Style, which has over eight
by it that I blocked it but, before I knew it, I had people asking me
million followers on Instagram, started sharing them.
if I was hungry while walking down the road. It’s hilarious and the
“I didn’t – and still don’t – have a huge budget for these
memes are gold! Oh, and I know I don’t have the best English
videos, so I use my living room as the set. They’re actually a lot
accent out there… Sorry about that!”
more work than one would imagine: to create four one-minute-
Accent or no accent, this rise to popularity has opened many
long videos takes over eight hours of work. All this is made
doors for Sarah. Just last year, she presented Miss Universe
slightly harder by the fact that I have a normal-sized wardrobe,
alongside Ben Camille – in a way, a nice ending to the supposed-
so finding ‘new’ stuff to use for each video can be quite
feud the latter’s reality show, Benjamin, had spurred over
difficult!”
comments that Sarah is too short to do runway modelling. “I also continued my studies,” she says proudly. “I graduated
The work has definitely been worth it, though, as these videos have proved pivotal to her Instagram account reaching
from MCAST in Creative Media Productions. Our modules were
100,000 followers last November. And, as has become tradition
based on what happens in front of and behind the camera, and
with anything involving Sarah, the news spread like wildfire with
that knowledge has proven to be incredibly important for my
articles on various local websites and even a related sketch on
career so far.”
Xarabank.
Two-piece dress by Jason Grech Earrings by Fossil; watch by Skagen
“I was at the influencers’ table alongside big Instagram names like Maja Malnar, Hotfit Golan, Zara Martin and Lucy Mecklenburgh” FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
13
CELEBRITIES
“I know this won’t last forever”
Dress by Elisabetta Franchi Earrings, watch and necklace (also used as headpiece) by Armani; Rings by Ted Baker
“It was incredible,” she tells me as we talk about this milestone. “I never thought I’d manage it! What’s even stranger is that I thought that the number of new followers would slow down after reaching the 100k-mark but it’s actually growing faster!” As Sarah – who last year also became the first winner of the
partied together with her and Simona Ventura, while DJ Gianluca Vacchi played. I thought I was dreaming!” Yet the world of influencers isn’t all glitz and glamour. As her brand grows bigger, she always keeps in mind that what she has today may not be there tomorrow: “I know this won’t last forever,”
Fashion Influencer of the Year Award at the Malta Fashion Awards –
she tells me, “but the experience and knowledge will still prove
states herself, when it comes to Instagram, the trick is to be patient
useful not just for myself but to the next generation of influencers,
and consistent. “Followers like to have an idea of what they can
too. I hope that I will be able to pass this on, help them gain a
expect and when,” she tells me.
footing in the industry, and assure them that, with dedication, this
Talking about her style of photography, she says: “I like to
can be a full-time job for them too – and not just in fashion, but
give each photo a different storyline, so I do a lot of driving around
also food, technology, business… Instagram, when used properly,
trying to find the perfect spot. Then, I match the outfit with
can be an amazing gateway to reaching your goals.”
whatever it is I’m promoting or the message I want to pass on, and add props to give it more life, be it newspapers, flowers, or other random things!” Her photos – taken using an iPhone 8 Plus – have certainly
‘And what would you tell potential future students of yours about the bullying?’ I ask. “That while I know that it’s not always possible to ignore it, you can’t let it get to you. I’ve been called a thousand names and
caught the attention of many, including Italian designer Elisabetta
some of them did hurt. But, at the end of the day, I wake up and I
Franchi who, last December, invited her to attend her 20th
go to work just like everyone else… But I would also tell them that
anniversary party in Milan over Instagram.
they’ll find many people who will appreciate what they do, and
“I screamed and booked the tickets. I didn’t even check if I
nothing will make them happier than someone telling them that
could or not,” she says. “It was an amazing experience. Elisabetta
they love a certain photo or a certain look. That’s what influencers
was kind enough to gift me a dress for the occasion, and I was at
work so hard for, and what makes it all worth it!”
the influencers’ table alongside big Instagram names like Maja Malnar, Hotfit Golan, Zara Martin and Lucy Mecklenburgh. We also
14 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
Follow Sarah’s journey on Instagram - @sosazerafa.
THEATRE
When Buffy meets Twilight JUST IN TIME FOR VALENTINE’S SEASON COMES A PLAY THAT PROMISES TO DELIVER SEX, BLOODLUST AND HOT VAMPIRES. ANABEL ATTARD INTERVIEWS STEPHEN OLIVER, WHO WILL BE BRINGING TO THE MALTESE STAGE AN ORIGINAL SCRIPT BY UNIFAUN THEATRE – THE ACROBAT. AND, IN TRUE UNIFAUN FASHION, CONTROVERSY IS GUARANTEED.
PHOTOS: JACOB SAMMUT
Stephen Oliver has become a name synonymous with theatre in
Now, Stephen is taking on one of the biggest challenges that
Maltese. But his journey didn’t begin here – far from it. On the
any theatre director will ever face – bringing a new work to the
contrary, until just five years ago, Steven was living in the UK,
stage. That work is The Acrobat, a play adapted by well-known
where he enjoyed a fruitful career as an international actor and
theatre producer and playwright Adrian Buckle, and based on the
director.
novel by Agnes Moon.
Then, eager to try something new, Stephen upped sticks and
“It is always exciting for a director to work on new plays,”
chose Malta as a possible destination to get some sun – while also
Stephen begins. “And, Adrian was actually the first person to give
still dabbling the theatre – at the suggestion of Masquerade
me that opportunity here in Malta, with his play Unintended.
Theatre producer Anthony Bezzina. Stephen couldn’t have known
“When it comes to this piece, I accepted to direct it because I
then how successful he would be, with a jam-packed list of theatre
particularly enjoyed how both the book and the play explore trust
credits to his name in a very short space of time, including
between two diametrically opposite characters. The piece is full of
directing Amadeus, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest and for
humour but is, intrinsically, a love story between a vampire and a
Unifaun, Metamorphosis and Unintended.
mortal being.”
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
19
THEATRE
Expect a dungeon-like set and lots of blood
20 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
THEATRE
Yes, you read that right – the vampire genre is coming to Malta. The piece follows Liam – a petty villain who, in order to keep his ‘boss’ happy, attempts to rob a house and steal a very precious icon – a dagger. “In doing so, he is caught by the owner, the strange Vincent, who keeps him prisoner, initially against Liam’s wishes,” Stephen explains, when I ask him to talk me through the story. “During the play we discover how Liam, despite his bravado, is a damaged young man, and the relationship between Vincent and Liam develops, with Vincent falling in love with Liam after having lost his previous mortal lover, William. Add to this a rival vampire group and
cast professional international actors for the roles that
occult hunters intent on tracking Vincent down, and
need to be interpreted as such. I am so pleased to be
the scene is set for this comic love story.”
working with Marco from Switzerland, who plays
It sounds truly fascinating and fans of the
Vincent, and Cody from the USA who plays Liam, and
vampire genre are sure to love this locally-adapted
they are required to fulfill these script requirements.
version of Moon’s tale – not to mention the dungeon-
Working with them, along with the Maltese cast
like set designed by Romualdo Moretti, and the
members, is turning out to be an absolute joy.”
soundtrack that uses the music by the iconic band
So, what should audiences expected from all
Depeche Mode. “Oh, and there’s lots of blood,”
this I wonder? “Well, if you’re into Twilight, Buffy the
Stephen points out.
Vampire Slayer and other media of that genre then
Some theatre fans will doubtlessly be
you will love The Acrobat,” Stephen promises. “It is an
wondering whether this play fits into the
adult play but, despite this, is a love story between to
‘controversial’ genre that Adrian’s productions so
diverse people who both find it hard to trust others. I
often do. But Stephen doesn’t think so. “I don’t see
have no doubt people will enjoy it.”
Adrian’s work as controversial,” he says. “It’s quite the
As for what this prolific director is planning to
opposite, in fact. I think Adrian, unlike many
do next, Stephen will be taking a break… But not for
producers, is prepared to take risks in theatre – he is
long, as he’ll quickly dive into directing the MADC’s
one of the few in Malta who does. And, beyond that,
upcoming annual Shakespeare production, The
Adrian is a playwright who allows the director to
Tempest, in San Anton Gardens, and then climb back
develop the script from the page to the stage, and
onto the stage to appear in Certified Male at the Sir
attends all rehearsals in order for that dialogue
Temi Zammit Hall before undertaking the baddie in
between us to evolve. I like that.”
MADC’s Aladdin at Christmas. “There’s no rest for the
That said, things aren’t completely controversyfree. The play does contain nudity and some sexual scenes, as well as violence, and Stephen knew he was
wicked is there?” Stephen adds with his trademark smile. Unifaun Theatre Productions’ staging of The
going to have to find actors that were prepared to
Acrobat will be staged at Spazju Kreattiv in Valletta
shed their inhibitions on stage. “I am aware of the
on February 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23 and 24 at 8 pm.
difficulties for some Maltese actors in this respect,
Tickets are available online. Suitable for audiences
especially as most of them have other jobs, it was
aged 18+.
clear most would be somewhat reluctant to undertake the requirements of the play. So, with this in mind, we
www.kreattivita.org
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
21
CIRCLE PROMOTION
Photography Bernard Polidano Glasses O’Hea Opticians Make-up Natasha Polidano Hair products milk_shake Malta Nails Beauty Inc by Sue Caruana
22 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
CIRCLE PROMOTION
Through Her Eyes FOR BLOGGER DORIANNE MAMO EVERY DAY BRINGS NEW CHALLENGES AND ADVENTURES WITH IT, BUT THEY’RE CERTAINLY EASIER TO MANOEUVRE WHEN SEEING CLEARLY WITH HER SIGHTED GLASSES FROM O’HEA OPTICIANS. HERE IGGY FENECH CHATS TO HER TO FIND OUT MORE. There are two things you’ll rarely catch Dorianne of Ask Dorianne-
about fashion, emotions, and life challenges seemingly to myself.
fame without: a big smile and a pair of sighted glasses. Indeed, for
Then, one day, I decided to go public and some people reached out
the blogger who has been steadily growing in popularity over the
to say that they felt they could relate to what I had written or to tell
past seven years, glasses are a big part of her identity… But it
me that they liked how I had combined clothes to create an outfit.
hasn’t always been that way. “At 16, when I was told I needed glasses, I felt like I was being
“Fashion has always been a passion of mine, but it didn’t mean I was comfortable and confident enough to post photos or to
punished,” she reveals. “For years, I avoided wearing them at all
give others fashion tips and advice. But, over the years, I have
costs, yet little did I know I was actually damaging my eyes by
learnt that you have to let go of your fears and simply do things,
doing so.
even if you’re unsure or scared.
“But, once I had no alternative, I agreed to getting a pair that
“In all honesty, I believe that regret is worse than failure. Plus,
reflected my personality and style. Within a few days, they became
what’s the worst that could happen when you do something that
a part of my image.”
turns out is not for you? You can learn something new, tick the
Such has Dorianne’s love for glasses grown that, nowadays, she feels naked without them. She wears them during the day,
been-there-done-that box, and move on.” That was a lesson Dorianne learnt as she chartered her way
when she’s working with a team of people to secure EU funds for
across the blogging world and fashion scene, particularly when
the University of Malta, and at night, when she’s relaxing or
she attended Milan Fashion Week for the first time a couple of
attending the next fabulous event in her busy social calendar.
years ago. Talking about her experience, she explains how
From fashion weeks both in Malta and abroad to TV interviews, Dorianne treats her glasses as an integral part of what
‘terrified’ she was. “‘Would I really be allowed to go into the shows?’, ‘Would it
she wears: Depending on the outfit she’s meticulously put together,
be okay to show up in that outfit?’ My mind was racing before I got
she will choose which one from her collection to wear.
to Milan but, in the end, I managed to see some pretty spectacular
Some of these glasses have seen her blossom both as a
catwalks, including those for Missoni, Trussardi and even get into a
person and as a blogger. Yet, as her style evolves and she takes on
Dolce & Gabbana after-party at the designers’ stunning Martini Bar
evermore demanding roles – Dorianne was appointed vice-
in the heart of Milan. And, while some may not see this as an
president of the Malta Chamber of Fashion just last year – her
accomplishment, to me – at least at the time – it was, because I had
glasses remain a signature of hers.
conquered my fear.”
“It may seem obvious, but seeing the world clearly makes a
This realisation led Dorianne to her next big step in life;
huge difference, especially when you’re not used to seeing it that
something which she thought she’d never be able to go through
way because your vision’s blurred. Details get sharper; colours,
with because of the emotional turmoil it would spell for her.
brighter.” As she explains how things have changed since she first hit
“When I was approached to form part of a team of people for TVM’s Il-Proġett to help raise funds and volunteer for an orphanage
the scene, it becomes obvious that having crystal-clear vision is
in Munugode, India, I was somewhat scared… Not because I didn’t
important – both literally and figuratively.
want to help out – I really wanted to – but because I get too
“When I first started blogging, I wrote simply to express myself and never shared what I had come up with. I would talk
emotional and attached. I felt that if I had to see all that had been explained and shown to me in real life, my heart would break.”
“It may seem obvious, but seeing the world clearly makes a huge difference, especially when you’re not used to seeing it that way because your vision’s blurred.” FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
23
CIRCLE PROMOTION
But she decided to push herself, and the experience surprised her beyond her wildest dreams: Being away from her day-to-day life and knowing she was doing something that benefitted these children made her feel calmer than she’d ever had before. Meanwhile, living with these orphans and seeing their joy reminded her just how much she – and we – take for granted as we go about our materialismcentered lives. “I feel like I received much more than I gave; and I try to live the lessons I learnt there in my everyday life,” she continues. Now, with Il-Proġett kicking off this April and her Sunday copresenting role on TVM’s 90 Minuta, Dorianne’s schedule is back to being packed, but she’s still working on worrying less and giving herself time to think and breathe – a lesson we could probably all make use of. “I like keeping myself occupied, but I don’t like having an overcomplicated life. So, in the end, it’s about finding a balance and ensuring that there is a time for everything that is important to me, be it work, relaxation, family-time or fashion.” As someone who’s seen Dorianne’s evolution over the years, it’s clear that even in her 30s, she feels confident enough to embrace change and to count her blessings… Including the confidence the right pair of glasses can give her! www.oheaopticians.com www.askdorianne.com
24 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
“I believe that regret is worse than failure.”
CIRCLE PROMOTION
26 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
CIRCLE PROMOTION
Business with a
HEART
AS VODAFONE MALTA CELEBRATES WINNING THE EQUALITY AWARD AT THE 2018 NATIONAL WORKER OF THE YEAR AWARDS, ITS CEO, SONIA HERNANDEZ, EXPLAINS WHAT THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANY IS DOING DIFFERENTLY.
company as a platform to let young women experiment with technology, so that they can better decide about their future careers.” One of these initiatives was ‘Code Like a Girl’, two free, four-day coding workshops for girls aged between 14 and 18, which had the aim of getting young women interested in taking up a career in the lucrative business that is so far dominated by men. The company also put more focus on events like Women’s Week, with numerous forums (Women in Technology, Women in Finance are just two examples), which are aimed at raising awareness and shattering glass ceilings.
As we enter the home of Spanish-born Sonia Hernandez, it becomes
To ensure this, Vodafone also has one of the best policies to
clear that she, her husband Miguel, and her children, Diego and
get women back to work after their maternity leave or after they’ve
Sandra, have settled down incredibly well since moving to Malta.
raised a family. Entitled ‘ReConnect’, the policy is designed to attract
“While I have to admit that Malta had never been on my radar, I
talented women who are struggling to make the professional
instantly felt at home,” says Sonia, who speaks five languages and
connections needed to renter the workforce or to refresh the skills
has so far worked in Germany, Brazil, Italy, Spain and Luxembourg.
required.
“I guess the Mediterranean culture is natural to us,” she
In addition, Vodafone has revolutionised maternity leave by
continues, “not to mention that the weather and the culture are a big
offering 17 weeks of fully-paid leave – an extra three weeks over and
plus to anyone living here.”
above their statutory entitlement. Upon return from maternity,
But the family doesn’t just like Malta for the weather. As she
working mums are able to spend the next six months working a 30-
explains, making friends and securing networking opportunities here
hour week while maintaining full salary and benefits applicable for 40
is much easier here, and she finds Malta’s progressive and dynamic
hours. This, they hope, will continue closing the gender gap.
agenda very heartening. “It certainly helps with Vodafone’s new purpose ‘to connect Malta for a better future’ and the three new strategic pillars we’re working on when it comes to people,” she explains. “These are to connect society digitally, to help protect the planet and Malta’s environment through technology, and, last but not least, for everyone to feel included regardless of race, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, gender or disability.” Vodafone Malta, with Sonia at its helm since last June, has certainly been putting its money where its mouth is. For starters, the local branch of the global telecommunications giant has almost equal numbers in male and female employees, and
“If there is no clear guidance at the top that increasing diversity and inclusion is better for company performance, then we are not going to be successful.”
their executive board is made up of 60% women: “Our global CEO has a clear target to close the gender gap and make inclusion for all
The company, however, realised that it didn’t want to leave men
a clear priority. If there is no clear guidance at the top that increasing
behind. So it celebrated Men’s Day in November, during which
diversity and inclusion is better for company performance, then we
employees could practise self-defense and talk about mental health.
are not going to be successful.”
Then, the company went a step further and extended paternity leave
Vodafone Malta doesn’t just want numbers, however… It wants to encourage women to get into the race and go for managerial roles, and there have been many initiatives set up to help with this. “One of the bigger challenges is getting enough girls to opt for
from the statutory entitlement of one day at the birth of a child to two weeks. “We have to lead by example but, to do that, we must first understand our limitations as people. For that reason, we also looked
STEM [science, technology, engineering and maths] careers,” she
at unconscious bias and trained our managers to be aware of how we
explains. “Telecommunication companies suffer from not having a big
may be treating coworkers or customers unfairly without even
enough pool of women so, as Vodafone, we want to offer up our
realising it.”
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
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CIRCLE PROMOTION
One of the main focus points of this was a culture of openness
an app with FITA that will give patrons access to additional
and happiness at the office and outlets. Indeed, not only has
information about restaurants and facilities. This will include
Vodafone sponsored Malta Pride for the past two years, but it’s also
information about wheelchair-accessibility and availability of menus
launched its own, internal coming-out guide to help employees feel
in brail, among others. Called ‘Spot’, Vodafone is expected to roll out
empowered enough to come out to their coworkers should they wish
the app in the upcoming months.
to, and others know what the correct way to react to the news is. “To me, it’s very obvious that you can only be your best self
“All this makes the Equality Award very fair for Vodafone Malta,” Sonia smiles, “but while it was an incredible moment, we don’t
when you feel accepted and appreciated for who you are. I am the
do it for the awards, we do it because we believe it is only fair that all
way I am and that has helped me throughout my career. I want
the people who come in contact with or work within Vodafone
others to be like that, too… After all, I don’t employ a person because
should be treated fairly and equally.”
of their name or where they come from, but because of the talent they have and it’s my role to help my people grow as professionals.” Sonia and her team, however, are also looking outwards, by changing the experience customers have at Vodafone outlets and when using Vodafone in general. On top of ensuring all its branches
Indeed, in our interview with Sonia, it becomes clear that she has a strong, zero-tolerance policy when it comes to lack of respect or people not being treated fairly, with the gender gap issue being a lot more personal than for most. “When I was studying electrical engineering in Madrid back in
are wheelchair accessible, the company has teamed up with the Deaf
1995, we were but a handful of women in class. Then I graduated in
People Association Malta to train at least one person per outlet in
Germany in 1996 and I was the only woman there. I’m a confident
basic sign language, and with the Commission for the Rights of
and strong woman, and this didn’t intimidate me, but it was still very
Persons with Disability to organise training on disability etiquette and
shocking.
how to welcome customers with disabilities. The training also
“I hope that all we’re doing will continue to prove beneficial to
extended to call centres, so as to be able to deliver the best
our employees and customers, and that it will help them believe
experience to people even when not interacting face-to-face.
that there are people and companies out there that care,” she
Now, the Vodafone Malta Foundation, which works on the
concludes.
concept that mobile communications technologies can address some of the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges, is working on
“To me, it’s very obvious that you can only be your best self when you feel accepted and appreciated for who you are.”
28 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
www.vodafone.com.mt
ART
When James Vella Clark attended his first art lesson at
love with the work of the great abstract expressionists
the age of six, he didn’t like it. “I cried a lot. Everyone
of the 1950s, especially that of Kline, Rothko and de
was older than me, and, to a six-year-old, the place felt
Kooning.
dark, damp and smelt of very old paper”, he says. Today, he is exhibiting a selection of his works
Upon his return to Malta, he started experimenting with large abstract canvases while still
from the past 10 years at Palazzo de la Salle, the very
working on urban and rural landscapes. Inevitably, his
same building where he studied the basics of art
landscapes started becoming more abstract: “My
throughout his childhood.
landscapes kept evolving in parallel with the larger
Later, as a teenager, James started attending lessons at Alfred Camilleri’s house, who happened to live in the same village. Under Camilleri’s tuition, he moved on from pencil drawings of his surroundings to
abstract works and I felt more comfortable testing the boundaries of how abstract my landscapes could go.” As it turns out, they could go very abstract indeed. Some of his latest landscapes resemble
more advanced concepts like perspective, form and
patchwork blankets in pastel colours, not unlike our own
space.
fields, except that the colours used are not those we
“He basically equipped me with the very basics
usually find in nature. When you look closer, however,
and I will remain indebted to him,” the artist says of
you can spot specific elements which he includes
Camilleri. At that time, pencil was his preferred medium.
repeatedly. The one that caught my eye is the palm tree,
In fact, he admits having avoided paint for many years
which has become somewhat of a trademark of his.
because he was afraid of it. “The turn-around happened
“The palm tree is not a chance addition,” he
in the late 1990s, when I went to a few classes with
explains. “It is a very sturdy tree, capable of
Harry Alden. That’s where I discovered colour!” Formal
withstanding the harshest conditions...It is
lessons, however, were not James’s cup of tea and, after
representative of the strength of the human nature, as
his classes with Alden, he continued reading about the
fragile as it might be, there is always strength within.”
lives and work of other artists on his own while working
Still, I couldn’t help but ask him how much further he
on his craft.
thought he could pare back his paintings.
He kept working on his paintings, with his
Would his landscapes reach the level of
landscapes becoming more popular than his other
abstraction that those of Barnett Newman did, where
work. His early 30s were a turbulent time for James, and
blocks of colour are only interrupted by a thin line or
art was his way of dealing with his issues. “It was a
two? “It is interesting that you mention Barnett
personal crisis mainly with myself. A lot of negativity, a
Newman. His work also inspired me a lot especially as I
lot of personal questions, many of them left
worked on my larger abstract works,” he replied.
unanswered.” Then, in 2008, the year he moved to his
“I think that in my quest to keep developing my
beloved Valletta, his style started changing. That same
abstract idiom, I will be looking more towards exploring
year, he exhibited in New York and, while there, he fell in
the ‘spiritual’ elements, especially in my larger works...
30 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
ART
How abstract can you go? AGED SIX, HE SPENT HIS FIRST FEW ART LESSONS CRYING. NOW, SOME DECADES LATER, HE IS GETTING READY FOR CONVERGENCE, A MAJOR EXHIBITION THAT WILL SHOWCASE HIS ART WORKS FROM THE PAST 10 YEARS. MAUREEN SAGUNA INTERVIEWS ARTIST JAMES VELLA CLARK.
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
31
ART
I felt more comfortable testing the boundaries of how abstract my landscapes could go
I do view large abstract works as spiritual in that the viewer can let himself be absorbed in them and feel part of something bigger.” What about those who just don’t understand abstract art? His reply is that “you do not have to be an expert – it either speaks to you or
retained their trademark church domes, steeples
it doesn’t. It either stirs something in
and other symbolic details but his use of colour and
you or it leaves you flat.”
paint has evolved, reflecting a more confident
He goes on to explain that
person who is at peace with himself. Now, he feels
many of these works are composed
very thankful, something he also credits his three
of layers of different shades and
children for. Apart from his artistic work and a
intensities which he views as a
family, a big part of his day is taken up by his day
reflection of the layers of experiences, mistakes and aspirations in our
job. When I ask him about his spare time, he jokes that he has none
own lives. One cannot see the layers in isolation, but as a whole, the
of that, but then adds that he runs. “I think a lot when I run and, if I
same way a person is not defined by a single experience, but by the
don’t run, I’m not okay to paint. When I paint and I’m happy with
sum of all that they have lived through.
what I do, I feel an urge to run. It’s a bit of a chicken and egg
I asked him how the viewers could tell which experiences or emotions he refers to in his work, but, although he jots down his
situation.” The more I spoke to James, the more I could see that
thoughts while he is painting and some of these are included in the
Convergence is a sort of diary of the past decade of his life and not
exhibition catalogues, James believes that he shouldn’t have to
just a showcase for his style’s evolution. In my opinion, it clearly
explain in words that which he is already saying in paint.
illustrates the artist’s growth from a troubled young man to one who
Today, James’ paintings look completely different to the ones he painted 10 years ago. His landscapes and townscapes have still
knows that his art is the only part of him that will outlive him. And he has finally made peace with that.
FRAGRANCE
Take your Chance CHANEL UNVEILS A NEW INTERPRETATION OF THE CHANCE EAU TENDRE FRAGRANCE WITH A STUNNING CAMPAIGN. SUNDAY CIRCLE BRINGS YOU AN EXCLUSIVE BEHIND-THE-SCENES LOOK. In 2002, Chanel launched Chance, a floral fragrance with a joyful character. A surprising bottle, full of curves. Chance Eau Tendre Eau de Parfum is a floral-fruity fragrance that is even more intense and enveloping. Created by perfumer Olivier Polge in cooperation with the Chanel Laboratory of Fragrance Creation and Development, it expresses a radiant and confident femininity with a feeling of absolute tenderness. Now, the new year brings with it a reinterpretation of this fragrance as an Eau de Parfum – more intense, more enveloping, this version expresses a radiant and confident femininity. This floral equation is draped in just the right dose of smooth and creamy white musk notes to create a clean, cottony effect. Immediately illuminated by the tangy whirl of the grapefruit-
The result of their collaboration is
quince accord, Chance Eau
what Goude refers to as a bref métrage
Tendre Eau de Parfum brings a
or brief film: a short danced and filmed
feeling of absolute tenderness.
act depicting a reality that is athletic
Delicate and profoundly poetic,
and yet graphic, sensual and stylized. A
this new composition evokes a
frenzied whirlwind of dancers and
woman whose joy and inner glow
choristers perform coordinated movements
gives her instant charm.
and choreographed reactions that convey the
For the launch of this
spirit of the fragrance in the slightest gesture.
reinterpretation. Chanel is revealing a new advertising campaign. Continuing his longstanding collaboration with the House since 1990, Jean-Paul Goude has poured all of his creativity and allegorical talent into the campaign. Moving on from playing games, Goude opted to portray
Its floral heart accentuates the fullness of exotic jasmine absolute, enriched with an essence of rose that shines a soft light at the centre of the composition. “Chance is a way of being,” said Gabrielle Chanel, who believed in her lucky star as much as she cultivated it. With
another theatre of chance: the audition. For this campaign, Goude
confidence and determination, Mademoiselle seized this chance
teamed with self-taught choreographer Ryan Heffington who
throughout her whole life. Attentive to all the signs that marked
shares his love of mixing genres and cultures, and with musician
her path, a woman who loved chance encounters and the
Sam Spiegel who also wavers between classical culture and hip
unexpected, she smiled at fortune and fortune smiled on her in
hop. It was a perfect fit: “they are both perfectly in tune with me,
return.
taking a somewhat naive and spontaneous approach to the film that is similar to mine.”
And still today, chance according to Chanel is no random matter. It’s a state of mind.
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
33
CIRCLE PROMOTION
Bringing Back Valletta’s Magic Charm, appeal, warmth, life... Until a few years ago, these words
deserves, not only to stand above other localities in Malta but also
were used with a sense of nostalgia when related to Valletta, which
to hold its own when compared to other capital cities.
had entered a vicious cycle whereby the dilapidation was causing
To do this, Valletta’s prestige, history and unique character
many businesses and residents to move out and leaving an
needed to be allowed to flourish, and four main projects stand out
increasing number of abandoned properties in its wake.
in this aim.
Then, in the nick of time, a regenerating initiative was
The first is the extension and modernisation of the St John’s
undertaken by various stakeholders, and their vision, courage and
Co-Cathedral Museum, which will finally allow nearly all of the
determination managed to start turning things around.
priceless artefacts to be displayed adequately, including the world’s
Today, when walking through the city streets, you can feel that there is a renewed sense of pride; an expectation that the city
largest set of Gobelin tapestries. Then, there was the move of the Fine Arts Museum from
is fast becoming a place where to live again and where culture,
Admiralty House in South Street to the Auberge d’Italie. Now
gastronomy, art, entertainment and hospitality converge to turn
known as MUŻA, it seeks to promote greater participation by the
Valletta into a destination. In line with the Government’s strategy for Valletta, the Planning Authority (PA) has been a major key player in this project,
community through a story-based narrative of displays and related objects. Thirdly, there was the revival of Strait Street. Its finely-built
as it has continuously promoted and supported the outstanding
and elegant dwellings, which had previously been the residences of
universal value of the City of Valletta based on integrity,
Knights of the Order and of Maltese notables, were given a new
authenticity, management and protection.
lease of life. Meanwhile, the year-round nightlife is attracting locals
PERMITTING The PA had a duty to ensure that the right planning permissions would be approved to help give Valletta the recognition it
34 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
and visitors alike, while serving as a financial injection to ensure its survival. Finally, there is the Valletta Design Cluster, which will see the Old Abattoir (Il-Biċċerija) – one of Valletta’s earliest buildings –
CIRCLE PROMOTION
Moreover, to ensure that Valletta’s streets and areas would once again come to life, the PA also permitted a large number of boutique hotels in the city, bringing in further investment while giving abandoned buildings and palazzos a new lease of life.
BEAUTIFYING Valletta has always had a lot to offer, but there was a time when the city felt like it was decaying. While the regenerative projects mentioned above were among the many that helped the city’s stellar revival, an uplift of its streets and surroundings was vital. The project that has, arguably, had the biggest impact on those visiting Valletta was the embellishment project of Triton Square, which saw the pedestrianisation of the whole area and the formalisation of the multitude of services that operated from there. This was further complemented by the paving and landscaping of the Valletta Ditch, which can be seen from the bridge that connects Triton Square to City Gate. being turned into a community space for cultural and creative
The regeneration and conservation of the covered market (is-
practices. Expected to be completed by the end of this year, the
Suq l-Antik tal-Belt) also formed part of the PA’s over-all plan to do
venue will include an exhibition space, a conference room, co-
justice to Valletta’s history and architecture. And, today, it attracts
working spaces, and spaces for artists in residence, among others.
numerous visitors and patrons through the services it offers in the
INVESTING
heart of the capital. Once again, the PA worked on ensuring that Valletta’s
Of course, Valletta does not exist in a bubble: it is not just
inhabitants enjoy the rewards of living in a UNESCO World
somewhere people go for culture, or shopping, or entertainment.
Heritage Site. Indeed, on top of the restoration of a number of
The city is home to thousands and bettering their lives was one of
shopfronts along Ta’ Liesse Hill, which in years gone-by was one of
the top priorities.
Valletta’s busiest commercial spots, the PA also gave the green
One way the PA helped with this, while also preserving Valletta’s aesthetics, was through the Marsamxett Balcony Grant
light for a further two projects that resulted in a much needed facelift to a number of dilapidated buildings.
Scheme 2018. A collaboration with the Parliamentary Secretary for
The first of these included restoration works on the façade of
EU funds and Social Dialogue, the €2 million balcony grant scheme
three adjacent large houses covering a stretch of over 30 meters in
for Marsamxett residents aimed to alleviate the financial cost of
Strait Street. The other saw restoration works being carried out on
restoring and maintaining traditional balconies, especially those
the 18 meter-long facade of the five storey-high Kerreja Building in
made out of timber, in order to encourage their continued use.
St Paul’s Street.
Valletta residents could also apply for the €10 million
Through these projects, as well as others, Valletta has started
Irrestawra Darek scheme. In 2018, however, the funds weren’t only
its ascent back to its former glory, and the PA is proud and
available for residents of Urban Conservation Areas (UCAs) – of
honoured to have been part of its journey.
which all Valletta residents are – but also to registered voluntary organisations whose properties can be found within UCAs.
www.pa.org.mt
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
35
PEOPLE
The piano playing heart surgeon ALEX MANCHÉ IS KNOWN AS ONE OF THE ISLAND’S TOP CARDIAC SURGEONS BUT HE ALSO MAKES TIME FOR HIS OTHER PASSION: PLAYING THE PIANO. AHEAD OF HIS PERFORMANCE IN THE UPCOMING FOLLY, FANTASY AND FEELING FUNDRAISER LATER THIS MONTH, HE CHATS TO ANABEL ATTARD ABOUT HOW HE EFFORTLESSLY BLENDS MEDICINE AND MUSIC. Alex Manché is a master of his craft. As a
enough as he was too taken up with
consultant cardio-thoracic surgeon, he is
other duties.
generally to be found carrying out
“When I left abruptly for England
operations like valve replacements and
in 1977 I was piano-less for most of the
bypass grafts. But, as if that wasn’t
18 years I spent there and this dealt a
enough, he is also a fantastic pianist,
heavy blow to the dexterity I had
with a passion for music that dates back
achieved in childhood,” he explains.
to his childhood.
“After that it was just playing for fun.
“When I was three years old my parents went to England and I was lucky enough to live with my grandparents for almost a year,” he recalls. “Nannu Bertie was an accomplished pianist and musician, and he boasted his own chamber orchestra that met twice a week and delighted all the residents around Dingli Circus with their lovely music. I was instantly besotted. Nannu taught me the rudiments of piano playing and coached me until my early teenage years. My father, who sported a rich baritone voice, then encouraged me to explore contemporary music, much to Nannu’s chagrin!” Today, Alex says he may well have considered a career in music – instead of medicine – but adds that it wasn’t an option back then… largely because he never practised his scales or arpeggios
36 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
Now I look forward to practicing piano more when I eventually give up surgery.”
PEOPLE
Alex Manché
piano and playing to my wife can recharge us for the week ahead. This musical interaction is the loveliest conversation a couple can experience. “I also meet up with friends twice a A bit like the piano, medicine came naturally to Alex. He comes from a medical family, so a career in it was always his destiny. “Things got serious when Dr
say that it has certainly delivered on the
week to play jazz and popular music.
exhilaration front!”
These sessions provide an opportunity to
Nevertheless, music has never quite
share the joy of music and have a drink or
stopped playing a pivotal role – and Alex
two to wash away our boredom and
Kildare was screened on TV in the early
even operates to music, be it classical,
anxieties.”
60s,” he quips. “My eventual training and
opera, film music or jazz. “Music can
career in England and the US brought me
certainly take the edge off the inevitable
watching this fantastic piano-playing heart
into the realm of cardiothoracic surgery –
stress during long hours of terror and
surgeon in action will have the opportunity
then an exciting new field and the dream
concentration,” he continues. “At the end
to do so, when he performs as part of
of every young aspiring surgeon. I have to
of a stressful week, sitting down at the
Folly, Fantasy and Feeling – an event at the
And now those interested in
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
37
PEOPLE
Alex Manché, Nicholas de Piro and event organiser Lucy Paterson
Salesians Theatre on February 27 in aid of the Save Valletta Skyline appeal. “Last year I happened to be hosting a surgical colleague from Spain and took him to see Marquis Nicholas De Piro’s gorgeous palazzo, Casa Rocca Piccola. It was then that Nicholas asked me to try out his piano and, the next thing I knew, I was participating in a poetry evening that he was organising!” That was this year’s prequel – and it turned out to be a hugely popular event,
“Cardiac surgery has certainly delivered on the exhilaration front! I regularly play music during my surgeries”
with an audience that loved every moment
And Alex is sure that this year’s event will be no different – combining Nicholas’ well-known tongue-in-cheek humour with a few surprise additions. “Look out for some serious overseas vocal talent, with me struggling at the piano to keep up,” the surgeon grins. “I have to admit that – with surgery taking centre stage – my piano practice time is very limited, so I am hoping the notes will come out in the correct sequence on the night! I entreat the audience for compassion and
of Nicholas’ poetry, Alex’s piano-playing,
sentimental and grave. I must say that the
and the fabulous entertainment from the
performers put on a very entertaining
rest of those taking part.
soiree with interpretations that were, at
understanding.” Folly, Fantasy & Feeling will be
times, downright hilarious and, at others,
performed for one night only at the Teatru
poetry and the show so much!” Alex
deeply touching. I am totally in favour of
Salesjan, Sliema from 6.30pm until 9pm,
smiles. “It was fun to set the music to the
funding-raising for a good cause,
on Wednesday 27 February 2019. Patrons
mood of each piece – which ranged from
especially when the experience is also so
are entitled to free parking. Tickets are
the cheeky and frivolous right down to the
uplifting.”
available from the Teatru Manoel website.
“I never imaged I would relish the
38 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
CIRCLE PROMOTION
For the Love of Animals: Celebrating 70 Years of Borg Cardona Co. Ltd. AUTHORED BY MALCOLM J. NAUDI TO MARK THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF BORG CARDONA CO. LTD, ‘FOR THE LOVE OF ANIMALS’ CHRONICLES THE DEVELOPMENT OF AGRICULTURE IN MALTA AFTER WORLD WAR II, THE GROWTH OF THE PET SECTOR, AND THE FLOURISHING OF A NUMBER OF PET ASSOCIATIONS.
The story of Borg Cardona Co. Ltd. starts in the 1950s, when
Maurice’s son – was recovering from an operation to repair the
Maurice Borg Cardona, who was a captain in the army, was injured.
damage to the ligaments and cartilage in his legs. His children, it
Placed at a government farm, the experience would see him
transpires, were looking for a way to keep their restless father
borrowing the then-princely sum of Lm100 to start a company that
occupied.
would help revolutionise various industries in Malta. Don’t believe us? Well, on top of introducing tropical fish to
What finally emerged from five face-to-face interviews with author Malcolm J. Naudi and research in The Times of Malta
the Islands, Borg Cardona Co. Ltd. made
archives, is a story of a company that is
Malta self-sufficient when it comes to
the embodiment of a family passion for
poultry and eggs, and, of course, started
the local agricultural, horticultural and pet
the pet food and accessories business.
sectors; the story of a company that has
More importantly, however, it has
played a crucial role in shaping the
consistently given many pet associations
markets it forms a part of.
the push needed to continue their work
With all that in mind – as well as a
and the financial support to ensure it
foreword by Dr Roberto A. Balbo, Chief
remained viable.
Veterinary Officer for Malta – For the Love
Borg Cardona Co. Ltd. has indeed
of Animals will definitely make for a fun and
evolved countless times over the past 70
interesting read for anyone from pet lovers
years, yet the welfare and care of animals
to history buffs. And, with the proceeds
has always remained its top priority; and
from both the hardback and paperback
it’s that that makes the title of their 70th
versions going to a charity that is to build a
anniversary book, For the Love of Animals,
shelter for horses, there’s no excuse for not
so appropriate.
getting your hands on one.
Rather ironically, however, this book, which was launched at company’s annual
For the Love of Animals is available
Christmas Party last year, is also the result
from Borg Cardona Pet shop in Balzan.
of an injury. In fact, the idea for it came
For more information, contact us on
about when Stanley Borg Cardona –
sales@borgcardona.com.mt
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
39
CIRCLE PROMOTION
Malta’s Environment in Numbers THE ENVIRONMENT AND RESOURCES AUTHORITY RELEASED ITS FIRST STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT LAST NOVEMBER, OUTLINING WHERE MALTA’S ENVIRONMENT STANDS IN EVERYTHING FROM AMBIENT AIR TO MARINE LIFE. HERE, NOELLE DEBONO TELLS US MORE ABOUT THIS LANDMARK STUDY. It’s November 2018, and the Environment
Ambient Air, while it takes stock of our
“With our growing population, we require
and Resources Authority (ERA) is gearing
resources such as waste, land and the
more infrastructure, and more living and
up for their biggest conference to date.
coast.
recreational spaces. We also produce
The occasion? The launch of the latest
The full report is available online but
more waste and create more traffic
State of the Environment report (SoER) –
due to its sheer magnitude and technical
congestion, generating more impact on
the first since ERA was founded in 2016,
detail, printed 100-page summary report is
the environment.”
and covering the longest span of years
also available. This provides useful insights
since the first study of its kind back in
on the environment we live in and depend
with experts to determine how Malta could
1998.
on.
improve the situation. The public will be
“The report is a stocktake of Malta’s environment; a periodical snapshot that helps decision-makers understand what’s
But, of course, the most important part of such a report is its findings. The biggest, most pressing and, in
To counteract this, ERA is working
roped in on discussing these solutions throughout the whole process. The challenge is to find low impact solutions
worked, what hasn’t, and what still needs
many ways, most obvious driving force we
that sustain the needs arising from a high
to be worked on,” says Noelle, who is a
face according to the 2018 SoER is the
population density. Indeed, people’s
senior officer within the National Affairs
increasing population of Malta. The island,
contribution to a better environment is the
Unit at ERA.
according to the 2011 Census, has 1,325
focus of the SoER 2018, with the tagline
persons per square kilometre – the
‘My Environment, My Turn’ being its
that deal with horizontal aspects such as
average across the European Union (EU) is
branding.
the Drivers of the environment, the Policy
of 116.
The report consists of nine chapters
that was in effect during the period under
“People – including ourselves, of
Maltese people, it turns out, also produce more municipal solid waste than
review, and other broad aspects such as
course – put pressures on the
the EU average: 624 kilos per capita per
Environmental Health and Climate Change.
environment. This is normal anywhere in
year as opposed to 481 kilos. This,
The report also focuses on the state of our
the world but, the more people you have,
however, also needs to be taken within a
Biodiversity, Marine and Fresh Waters, and
the more challenging it is,” Noelle explains.
context.
40 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
CIRCLE PROMOTION
report was conducted. Nature and industrial
conducted by ERA, in collaboration with
consumables and food, we dispose of
permitting have also been enhanced since
other entities like the National Statistics
more packaging than, say, if we had to use
then, with such activities being assessed by
Office, Water Services Corporation, the
things produced locally,” Noelle continues.
ERA to see what their implications on the
Energy & Water Agency, and the
“We also have to take into consideration
environment would be and, if approved,
Environmental Health Directorate, to name
that not everything is within our control or
that conformity to the law is ensured.
a few.
“Because we import so much of our
can be changed. Air quality-issues, for
“On top of this, we experienced an
“Now, we have started working on a
example, while they are affected by traffic
increase in waste management
National Strategy for the Environment,
congestion, can also be partly a result of
infrastructure to treat waste before it’s
which will be Malta’s forward-looking
our geographical location, with dust being
exported, and a Waste Management Plan
document covering 2020 to 2050. In the
brought here naturally from the Sahara
2014-2020 was published to ensure
next few weeks, we will be publishing our
desert.
continued waste management efforts. We
intent to develop a vision – a first step that
also found that there was a very
should see ERA publishing the strategy by
better use of our resources, whether its
significant reduction in sulphur dioxide in
next year. In fact, we’d like to take this
water or land. In fact, one of the things
the air now that sulphur-heavy fuels have
opportunity to urge the public to get
that are pointed out in the report is the
been phased out. Indeed, overall, Malta’s
involved and submit their vision and ideas
importance of maximising the efficient use
air quality mostly respects EU limit values
for a better environment every Maltese
of land and other natural resources.”
– although it doesn’t mean our job is
citizen,” Noelle concludes.
Noelle adds.
done,” says Noelle.
“Nevertheless, we need to make
“Walking whenever we can and using
One of the most welcome results of
To find out more on the SOER 2018,
public transport would also greatly lower
the report showed that there was a 98%
please visit https://era.org.mt/en/Pages
the localised impact from traffic on air;
increase in environmental expenditure by
/State-of-the-Environment-Report.aspx
and purchasing products which come with
the government from the 2008 level.
little or no packaging – particularly fruit
Something ERA notes through its report is
and vegetables – are all positive steps
the considerable advancement in making
towards a better environment.”
Malta’s economy greener.
The report also showed that Malta
“SoER 2018 looked at the state of
was doing incredibly well in some areas.
Malta’s environment over seven years
Marine Protected Areas now cover 11 times
[between 2009 and 2015] and follows in
the size of Malta and 93% of all bathing
the footsteps of the four reports that had
Hexagon House, Spencer Hill,
waters are of excellent quality. 40% of
been previously published,” continues
Marsa, MRS 1441
species and 43% of habitats had a positive
Noelle. “The report is obviously
Tel: (+356) 2292 3500
conservation value, and are better
scientifically-based with extensive
Email: info@era.org.mt
protected than they were when the 2008
qualitative and quantitative research
Website: era.org.mt
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
41
THEATRE
Shakespeare, as we like it POLLY MARCH LEADS A YOUNG AND ENTHUSIASTIC CAST INTO WHAT SOUNDS LIKE AN INTRIGUING TAKE ON THE BARD’S CLASSIC, TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA. INTERVIEW BY ANNA-MARIE GALEA. There are few people who have lived as many stage lives as Polly
Of course, while many diehard fans will love this updated
March; not only has she treaded the boards playing everything
version of the Bard’s work, there will no doubt be others who will
from good old Queen Victoria to a parrot, but she has also lent her
question whether or not Shakespeare can still be considered to be
voice to radio. Here, she tells me about her great love of directing
relevant after so many centuries. While some may find this
William Shakespeare’s plays and how her version of Two Gentlemen
challenge daunting, March is more than ready to take up her
of Verona is set to break the mould and redefine audiences’
director’s chair: “Pretty much everything Shakespeare ever wrote
expectations.
will have some relevance to our lives today. He wrote of the human
When speaking about how she chose this particular play to
condition and that has not changed. We love, hate, feel envy and
direct, Polly speaks both passionately as well as enthusiastically
jealousy, we are sometimes morally compromised in the choices we
about what it was that drew her in: “I suppose I have a soft spot for
make. He may have written mostly about kings and queens, but
this particular play which was one of Shakespeare’s first, if not his
they are subject to the same frailties that any man or woman is and
very first. At this point in time, he hadn’t quite got the hang of
nothing has changed. Shakespeare always offers something that
having 20 people on stage and making them all count. I am
has the ability to speak to us.”
working with a very young cast, many of whom have never played
While she is driven by her joy of mining the text for meaning
in anything by Shakespeare and, as it is a comedy, the language is
and the universal truths that Shakespeare conveys, she confesses
not as dense and complex as in later plays. I really feel like
that putting up the performance has not been without its
Shakespeare laid the groundwork for some of his later great plays
challenges.
in this one.”
“This has been a year-long project. I have never worked on a project for as long as this, however, this company of 18 young
We’re even going to have jive lessons for the audience in the interval Renowned for her ability to take a fresh approach to the text and wow audiences in the process, March chose to go down a new route in her version of Two Gentlemen of Verona, one which she hopes will breathe new life into the much-loved play. “I love looking at things with fresh eyes. When I directed the same play for the MADC exactly 10 years ago, it was the first time this particular piece had been performed here. I was really keen to give actresses a chance to play strong roles and I reset the era of the original story to the 1980s, when the New Romantic movement was at its strongest,” she says. During this wave, fashion was androgynous and men wore makeup and glitter and gorgeous, peacocky clothes: Boy George, Adam Ant and Marilyn were just splendid. It really fitted with having cross gender casting because, at the time, it was hard to tell boys from girls because of the fashion and make up. This time, I have set it in the 1950s so you can expect to see lots of puffy frocks and petticoats, pedal pushers, headscarves, Brylcreem, and of course, lots of rock and roll. Everyone is learning to jive and loving it! We’re even going to have jive lessons for the audience in the interval!”
42 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
people aged from 14 to 21 have many other things on their plate and they have taken on tackling a text which is new to them, by a playwright that they are slightly familiar with from school and probably hated! What a challenge for them!”
THEATRE
Having opted for a Shakespeare play and having the company in place, Polly’s role was not only to direct, but to create forms of mentoring for the cast. De-constructing the text and even learning the joys of iambic pentameter. “Another challenge was the space. Teatru Salesjan is a delightful theatre and a pleasure to work in, but I have had the whole auditorium cleared and the audience will be seated around three sides. The arena is huge and has brought its own challenges to the rehearsals. It’s really intimate, so the young people have to learn to trust themselves and to be totally truthful, and not to ‘act’.” Passionate as ever, it’s hard not to believe Polly when she says that she wishes she could do no other work except Shakespeare, and probably wouldn’t if she weren’t so worried her beloved cats would starve. It’s this same love that she hopes to convey to the audience. “If there’s something I would like the audience to take away, it’s for them not to be frightened of Bill the Bard! You don’t need a PhD to understand it; he was no academic, he was a working playwright and actor. Don’t be put off at the thought of having to sit through reams of rhyming couplets without understanding a word. Actors who know what they are about (and these young people are getting there in spite of their youth) will transmit their Polly March
individual stories to you.” And there’s more fun to be had with what sounds like a
The challenge for her, she adds, was to find ways of making the text comprehensible. “If they understand what they are saying, the audience will too. So we did table work for months. Literally, sitting around a
highly-interactive theatre piece –from singing along to the great 50s numbers, to enjoying a jiving lesson in the interval, and maybe getting to help take Crab the dog for a walk. Oh, and watch out for the Vespa!
table and de-constructing the text, learning to use the metre and discovering the huge pleasure that is to be found when at last they
Two Gentlemen of Verona runs on February 22, 23 and 24 at
know what Shakespeare is telling them and what they have to
the Salesians Theatre, Sliema. Tickets are available online.
transmit to the audience.”
www.tsmalta.com
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
43
HUMOUR
6 types of Maltese Valentines STEVE HILI GETS DOWN WITH ALL THE WAYS US ISLANDERS DO LOVE. Of course, everyone, the world over
It is February and, with the whole world
but grunts and deep guttural breaths. In
getting caught up in the madness of
likes dining out, but the Maltese Food
the process, turning office meetings into a
Valentine’s, it is a well-known fact that
Lover does it better than most. Forget
very strange experience.
nobody does love quite like the Maltese.
flowers, jewellery or snuggling up to watch
The Horn Dogs spend the weeks
a romantic movie, the Food Lover cannot
leading up to the big day scouring
most romantic person in the world. But, as
comprehend any other way to declare their
websites that sell adult toys, comparing
the big day approaches, I usually get
undying passion for their loved one.
lingerie prices and getting up to speed
I’ll be the first to admit, I am not the
Because romance in Malta is second
swept up in the vicious cycle of trying to
to only one other love. The love of carbs.
think of a creative Valentine’s gift that won’t obliterate my bank account (and
with the Kama Sutra. You see, for them, Valentine’s day means getting hot and heavy. They need to be prepared, and they
being a professional comedian, my bank
5. The Horn Dog
account is very easily obliterated) before falling back onto roses and chocolates. But as a Malteser, I’ll admit, I am the
As soon as the Horn Dogs realises
will be. Every detail is taken care of. Music,
that it is February, all they can hear in their
movies, comfy sofa, contraception. Forget
head is weird 1970s porn music. And then,
global warming this is what is really going
exception. The Maltese do Valentine’s like a
as the 14th approaches, their speech
to melt the ice-caps.
boss. Whether it is calling up a radio
becomes less and less comprehensible,
station to dedicate Xemx to their hubby,
until it finally descends into nothing else
ordering a meat-feast pizza to
Now, if only they could get a date.
4. Hipster Love
be home delivered and eaten
A recent addition to the
with the wife in the bath, or
Maltese landscape is the hipster
buying your lover enough
lover. Eschewing the Maltese
helium-filled balloons to carry a
traditions of being romantic, they
small child through the
do things their own way (or at least
stratosphere, the Maltese have
the way their favourite influencer
turned the act of expressing love
has suggested).
into an art form.
These are the bright young
And so, for all you love-
things who want books of poetry
struck love-birds out there, I give
instead of roses. They don’t want
you the six types of Maltese
chocolate oranges, they want
Valentine’s.
smashed avocados. They don’t want to go for a romantic drive, they
6. The Food Lover
want to go for an urban cycle. And
We all know that in Malta,
of course, they don’t want to
every celebration is an excuse
celebrate with champagne. They
for food. Be it Christmas, the
want to be mysterious and impulsive
festa, or the new skeda on TVM,
with fat-free-soy-frappuccinos.
we have to celebrate by eating.
People might not understand
And Valentine’s day is up there
them, but that is just because
with the best celebrations of all.
Maltese-Hipster-Lovers play be their
I mean, what is the point of a
own rules and measure romance in a
relationship if you cannot
different way.
celebrate it with a seven-course meal?
44 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
Steve Hili
You know, through Instagram likes.
HUMOUR
Love is... buying your lover enough helium-filled balloons to carry a small child through the stratosphere. 3. Young Love
friend told me that he won over his new
people celebrated Valentine’s day
lady by playing her a Jennifer Rush song
EVERYDAY, surely there would be a major
angst and Cardi B lyrics all come together
and giving her a Catch. Let’s be honest,
rose and chocolate shortage in Malta
in perfect unison to make it seem like
what woman could resist?
throughout the year, right? Boq.
Ah, Teenage love. When hormones,
nobody has ever felt anything as intense,
The truth is, some Maltese people
pure, or as beautiful as that which one
have never left the decade. And this
Maltese teenager is feeling for another
includes people who were born after it had
right here, right now.
finished. And so, when Valentine’s day
Bonus: If you are single, embrace technology. Despite the Maltese downsides.
Yes, it has only been six weeks since
comes around, these totally rad dudes and
If this Valentine’s day is the first one
that first kiss during the New Year’s Party,
dudettes only have one way of celebrating.
after a break up, or if you going through a
but this is the real deal. It has to be. And
A VHS copy of The Breakfast Club and a
bit of a barren patch, seeing the rest of the
so, to celebrate their first Valentine’s day
ticket to a Reflex party.
country winning at Valentine’s can be a bit
together they go all out. Taking loans from their parents (that they will never pay back) they buy the biggest, most extravagant soft toys they can find. Good
tough. But don’t despair, there is plenty
1. Every day is Valentine’s day There seems to me to be a section of
more Maltese fish in the sea, and Valentine’s day is when they all come to the surface looking to get a nibble (I might be
job this is going to last forever and they
Maltese society who just refuse point-blank
pushing this fish metaphor a bit much). Get
won’t see that teddy bear being put out
to partake in Valentines shenanigans. Are
your Tinder on and start swiping till you get
with the rubbish in a few weeks’ time.
they kill-joys? Anti-Capitalist protesters
cramp in your fingers.
upset at how commercialized it has all
2. The 80s lover The 1980s were a very special decade for Malta and pop culture from that era
Yes ,of course you are going to find
become? Or just too busy watching the
your relatives on there. This is tiny Malta
Europa League?
after all, but that is no excuse not to give it
The excuse that is most often heard is
a bash.
seems to have wedged itself firmly into the
that these people don’t need a special day
Maltese psyche, with no intention of leaving
to celebrate their love. Everyday is
just ignore them. No it is not rude. No
If you do come across any cousins,
anytime soon. Nowhere is this more evident
Valentine’s day for them. A noble
matter what your nanna says.
than when it comes to love. Only last year a
statement indeed. Although if all of these
Happy Lovin’!
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
45
ISSUES
46 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
ISSUES
Not victims, but survivors MAUREEN SAGUNA MEETS UP WITH SOME OF THE BRAVE WOMEN AT SOAR, A SERVICE LED BY THOSE WHO WENT THROUGH DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND WHO ARE NOW HELPING OTHERS REBUILD THEIR LIVES.
Until recently, whenever I thought of domestic abuse, I would picture a bruised woman, cowering in terror as her domineering partner threatened to beat her up. While that is certainly the case for many women who are still trapped in an abusive relationship, the ones I recently met at SOAR could not have been more different from the image I had in my head. “We do not want to be seen as victims, but as survivors.” Those were some of first words that Elaine Compagno, the coordinator of SOAR, told me when we met on the NGO’s sixth anniversary, and this sense of pride and positivity was echoed by the other members I met later. SOAR is a service offered by St Jeanne Antide Foundation, led by survivors of domestic violence, which helps others rebuild their lives, while advocating against their revictimisation by our legal system. I started by asking the most common question people ask of victims of domestic violence: why don’t they just leave their partner? Leaving the person who regularly beats you up or continuously insults you might seem like an obvious solution to most, but there are various reasons why a person might remain in an abusive relationship. The most common one is a fear of being hurt or killed. This fear seems to be well-grounded seeing as almost all femicides are committed by a current or ex-partner, and they all happen when the woman is leaving the relationship or just after she has left. Christina, one of the women referred to SOAR, was at lethal risk and her only option was to quickly leave the home she shared with her abusive partner while he was at work. “The only similar scenario is when you must leave your home quickly to escape a fire,” Elaine said. It turns out that this is just the tip of a seemingly endless iceberg. When a woman leaves an abusive relationship in a rush, she can seek refuge at one of the few shelters available, but these only offer temporary accommodation. Eventually, she will need to find a place which she can afford to rent, which
“My child went to live with her abuser, and remains with him to this day” SARA FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
47
ISSUES
is no mean task with the current rise in rental prices. On top of that, many survivors have no money to speak of, having come out of relationships where their abusers didn’t allow them to work or have their own money. When I asked them about getting help from family or friends, the majority replied that they had received little to no support from the people in their lives and were left to their own devices. Some people had even tried to dissuade the victims from taking action or were reluctant to get involved. This happens especially in cases when there are no bruises to show for the violence being inflicted upon the victim. “Here in Malta, we tend to see domestic abuse as a private matter between a couple,” Elaine explained. Finding employment and accommodation are not the biggest challenges some of the survivors face, either. Many of the women helped by SOAR complain about a lack of empathy shown by some of the first responders. When Romina ran away from her husband, who was about to beat her up again, she was literally running for her life. She had no time to put shoes on and, grabbing her two young children, drove straight to the police station to seek help. Unfortunately, her husband had friends working there
The truth is that domestic violence offenders face very minimal consequences for their actions
consequences for their actions and it all starts from the early years. Shrugging off boys’ bad behaviour by saying that “boys will be boys” only strengthens the idea that they cannot help themselves and that we should close an eye to any mischief. We also need to empower women, who are still culturally conditioned to accept sexual and financial violence. Finally, they strongly believe in dispelling myths and stereotypes
and, instead of supporting her, they
about gender roles. A patriarchal mentality
discouraged her from filing a report. One
is more likely to produce men who think
of them even threatened her with legal
they can get away with anything and
action for not having put her children in
new cases and withhold consent on
women who are victimised by them. Elaine
their car seats while escaping.
matters relating to their children. Karen
added that “Malta is already heading in the
suffers from PTSD and her recovery is
right direction with the introduction of new
disjunction between the different courts in
made harder by the unpredictability of her
laws based on the Istanbul Convention, but
our country. Sara’s ex-husband, who was
ex’s behaviour. He is banned by the courts
a lot still needs to be done”.
reported to the Family Court by
from approaching or contacting Karen or
psychologists and lawyers as being
their children, so opening new court
Apart from teaching our children that we
controlling and possessive, was eventually
appeals, cases and police reports against
are all responsible for our own actions, we
awarded sole custody of their teenage
her is his way of maintaining control.
should also support those who have been
There also seems to be a complete
daughter. The Court refused to recognise
So, what do the survivors themselves
Meanwhile, we can all do our part.
or are victims of domestic violence, be it
any other case relating to Sara’s abuser,
want us to know? To start with, they want
physical, psychological, emotional or
even though they provided ample proof
women who might still be in an abusive
financial. A shoulder to cry on, an ear to
that he was manipulative and dangerous.
relationship to know that it is possible to
listen and letting them know that their
“My child went to live with her abuser, and
start living again and be happy, and that
feelings are valid are good ways to start.
remains with him to this day.”
SOAR is there to help them. Secondly, they
Finally, refer to SOAR any survivors you
want the focus to shift from the victims to
know who might need help starting afresh.
strategy used by perpetrators to continue
the perpetrators. The truth is that domestic
It might be the most important step they
exerting control over their victim is to open
violence offenders face very minimal
take in their journey to a new life.
Speaking of the law, a common
48 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
CIRCLE PROMOTION
Help the Strays BORG CARDONA & CO. LTD, IMPORTERS OF THE RENOWNED ROYAL CANIN BRAND OF DOG AND CAT FOOD, HAS LAUNCHED A PHILANTHROPIC INITIATIVE AIMED AT HELPING STRAY DOGS AND CATS. Between February and April 2019, Borg Cardona & Co. Ltd has
“Through Royal Canin, which we have represented in Malta and
pledged to donate 5c for each kilogram of Royal Canin dog and cat
Gozo for over 30 years, we want to show that we are leaders in
food purchased in Malta and Gozo. The money will be donated to a
supporting even stray dogs and cats,” says Nigel Borg Cardona, the
number of animal sanctuaries and to registered feeders of strays.
Director of Borg Cardona & Co. Ltd.
The aim of the initiative is to provide food for dogs and cats in
“Thanks to the volume of business of Royal Canin in Malta and
need in order to improve their health and provide them with healthy
Gozo, this small donation per bag can make a big difference. I am
alternatives; to improve their quality of life; and to create greater
confident that this money will truly benefit strays, and that the
awareness in the community on animal well-being.
community will be made more aware of how many of these animals
As a consumer of the world-famous Royal Canin brand you will continue paying the same price as you normally would. The only
need to be looked after, having been abandoned by their owners.” So, go on, give your pet the best and help those in need!
thing you need to keep an eye out for is the sticker displaying the logo of The Royal Canin Malta Charity Campaign.
www.borg-cardona.com
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
49
FOOD
PHOTOS: RACHEL ZAMMIT CUTAJAR
Let ’s make
marmalade! BY PIPPA MATTEI
Citrus fruit grows abundantly at this time of year. Oranges of all
into Dundee harbour in Scotland. The cargo of Seville oranges was
kinds, tangerines and lemons fill local market stalls and hang off
sold cheaply to merchant James Keiller, whose wife turned it into
the backs of vegetable trucks.
a preserve and created England’s favourite breakfast food.
Malta’s citrus industry dates back as far as 870, when Malta
Seville oranges grow well in Malta and homemade
was under Arab rule, and later, during the reign of The Knights of
marmalade is easy enough to make. My two aunts Jane and Cella
St John, Malta became particularly renowned for the superior
made marmalade every year. I still find their recipe for the Seville
quality of its citrus fruits which were exported to other European
orange marmalade the best as it is much less bitter than some
countries.
other marmalade recipes.
Among the citrus grown in Malta, Seville oranges thrive. Also
Although traditional marmalade is made with Seville
known as bitter oranges, they aren’t meant for eating fresh as
oranges, you can make it with any citrus fruits. The garden of my
their flesh is bitter. However, their high pectin content makes them
late mother’s Zejtun home is full of old citrus trees that bear
an ideal candidate for preserves and are generally used to make
plenty of fruit. As we can’t eat them all we preserve as many as we
orange marmalade. Paddington Bear’s favourite sandwich filler
can, in marmalades (orange or tangerine) or limoncello (which I
goes back to the 1700s, when a damaged ship from Spain sailed
also make with tangerines for a mandarincello).
50 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
FOOD
Seville orange marmalade
It is important to use freshly picked fruit. If you can pick the fruit yourself, try and make the marmalade that day or the day after at the latest. Besides all the ingredients you will need a large pot, a mouli-legume (sometimes called a passérapid) or colander, a piece of muslin and string, some empty jam jars, a little brandy, waxed discs (or greaseproof paper), some pretty cotton material and matching ribbon and labels. This recipe makes approx. 10 jars of marmalade. INGREDIENTS
• Meanwhile sterilize the
2.4kg sugar
empty jam jars by washing
14 Seville oranges
them in hot water, and then
2 lemons
put them in a VERY slow
3 litres water
oven till dry and warm. Keep them there till your
METHOD
marmalade is ready.
• In a very large pot, boil
• Fill the warm jars with
oranges and lemons in the
the marmalade (with the
measured water until very
help of a medium sized
soft.
jug). While still hot, put waxed discs (or circles with
• When cool, take the fruit out of the water, leaving
greaseproof paper) into a
the water in the pot, and
cup with some brandy and
cut the fruit into quarters.
place the discs on top of the marmalade in each jar.
• Scoop out the pith and pips and put them into a mouli-legumes,
• Put the pot onto a low flame and warm
or into a normal large colander, placed
the mixture adding the sugar when
over a large bowl.
warm and stir constantly until the sugar
• Chop all the skins finely and set aside. • Press the pulp and pith through the
melts. • Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, and
mouli or colander collecting the thick
leave to boil like this for some time
juice in the bowl below.
(approx. 45 mins) stirring now and
• Put this and the shredded skins into the pot with the water. • Do not throw away the dry pith and pips left behind in the mouli or colander,
This will prevent mould from forming on the top of the marmalade. • Either seal with the lids while hot or allow to get cold (do not close them when ‘warm’) and when you are sure the marmalade has set. • Cut some circles out of pretty material
again and removing the scum that may
to top your jars. Tie with matching
rise to the top. Keep an eye on it as it
ribbon, label with their date of making,
has a tendency to boil over.
and leave in a cool place till needed.
• To test when the marmalade has set,
but gather them and tie them into a
put a little onto a very cold saucer (put
NOTE: The marmalade will set according to
square of muslin that you secure with
it in the freezer beforehand), and push
how much natural pectin is in the fruit. If
string and tie onto the handle of your
the marmalade with your finger. If it
your marmalade has not set, don’t panic.
pot so that the ‘bundle’ hangs down
crinkles and gels it is ready. You might
Boil up the marmalade again and add a
into the mixture in the pot. This helps
have to test it several times till you are
sachet of pectin. This will alter the flavour a
add pectin to your mixture which makes
sure it is ready. Try not to miss gelling
little, so see if you can make do without
the marmalade set.
point as you can over boil it.
before resorting to packaged pectin.
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
51
FOOD
Tangerine marmalade The previous owner of our house, Michael
fruits and put this in a small basin with
Radcliffe, left some beautiful citrus trees in
the pips and 250ml water.
the garden and he also left a recipe for his
• Shred the tangerine peel very finely.
tangerine marmalade that I still use to this
• Remove the rind from the extra lemon
very day.
with a potato peeler and shred this also. • Put the pith from this lemon into the
Makes approx 5 jars
• Remove the bag of pips, pressing it well
remaining water in a large basin and
6 lemons
leave overnight. • The next day put the pips and membranes through a mouli-legumes (also called a passé-rapid) and press
• Cut the tangerines and 5 lemons in half and squeeze out all the juice. • Remove centre membranes from both
52 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
in the juice mixture.
membranes. • Put the fruit juices, shredded peel and
METHOD
the handle of the pot and hang the bag • Boil steadily for 1 hour.
18 tangerines
1.2kg sugar
through the moulie. • Tie the muslin bag with the pips onto
small basin with the other pips and
INGREDIENTS
2.75 litres water
(discard 250ml of this) into a large pot. • Add the juices that you have pressed
out the juice which you set aside. • Gather the dry pips and put them into a muslin square tied into a bag. Set aside. • Put the contents of the larger bowl
against the inside of the pot to release any liquid and the pectin. • Warm the measured sugar in a bowl (in the oven) and add it to the liquid in the pot. • Dissolve slowly and then boil rapidly until this sets when tested (see previous recipe). • Skim well and pour into warm sterilized jars.
Celebrate local produce with Pippa Mattei Love local ingredients? Get more of Pippa’s recipes in her cookbooks 25 Years in a Maltese Kitchen (also translated into Maltese) and the Gourmand awardwinning Pippa’s Festa. All three books are available at all leading bookstores or online from www.mirandabooks.com with free delivery to Malta and Gozo addresses.
CIRCLE PROMOTION
Sustainability Matters – thinking outside the box THE MAJESTIC DINGLI CLIFFS OFFER AN INDULGING STIMULATION FOR ALL THE SENSES, WITH A NATURAL ENVIRONMENT YOU CAN OBSERVE, HEAR, FEEL AND SMELL, AND LOCAL PRODUCE YOU CAN SAVOUR. SO VISIT THE CLIFFS INTERPRETATION CENTRE AND EXPERIENCE THE UNIQUE BLEND OF ECOLOGY, HISTORY, CULTURE AND PRODUCE PUT TOGETHER THROUGH THE CENTRE’S COMMITMENT TO UPHOLD THE ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC ASPECTS OF SUSTAINABILITY.
Recreational and informative eco-walks in Summer
THE CLIFFS Interpretation Centre
54 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019
Interactive audiovisual and hands-on presentation
CIRCLE PROMOTION
The idea behind THE CLIFFS Interpretation Centre originated from a local family with several direct links to Dingli’s history and traditions. Once, the central village
Increasing environmental awareness to young visitors and schools
bar and bakery owned by the late Louis Muscat doubled as a gathering place where those who couldn’t read would go to hear stories narrated from books. La Pinta Ltd. follows in those footsteps, making it one of the first companies to offer a combination of innovative methods of information dissemination and local food products. THE CLIFFS has sought to address the lack of services along Dingli Cliffs while keeping in line with the EU’s Habitats and Birds Directive.
Sustainable Practices The concept of sustainable development emerged in the context of the growing global awareness on the threats to ecology. The CLIFFS Interpretation Centre has found a balance between the economic, environmental and social sides of the business to make it and its work sustainable. • ECONOMIC – THE CLIFFS runs as a self-sufficient and financially-viable entity without requiring external funding. Autonomy is maintained by earning income from gastronomy, whereby part of the generated profit is used to offer free environmental education including eco-walks, public facilities and services, including the only public convenience along
Centre’s primary roles is that of developing and
the stretch of cliffs. La Pinta Ltd brought economic
implementing activities with the participation of all
input to local development by creating jobs, and
stakeholders. In fact, it cooperates with said
favouring the vitality and viability of farmers and
stakeholders and land users, like the Dingli Local
producers.
Council and national authorities, among others.
• ENVIRONMENT – During the planning phases,
Exploring archaeological cart ruts during the free eco-walks
facilities at source. Yet, more than that, one of the
Then, there is the selection of jams and
Malta’s climatic features (wind, temperature,
delicatessen, which are a reminder of past uses of
humidity, and so on) were taken into consideration,
local produce. The culinary experience at THE CLIFFS
and the end result is that the building conserves
highlights the use of seasonal flora in the making of
energy and water. Moreover, the Centre is located on
hearty meals, amalgamating the historical and
the site of the 1960s TACAN structure thus becoming
cultural traditions retained by locals while also
incorporated within the committed area without
preserving cultural heritage. The habit of using wild
taking any ‘new’ land.
edible plants in cooking is still alive in Dingli, though it
THE CLIFFS has also recognised that education
is slowly fading away, therefore recording and
(and not imposition) is the key to ensuring current
preserving such knowledge is fundamental. And, with
and future environmental awareness. On top of all
around 1,100 different species of wild plants dotting
this, the free eco-walks promote tourist flows during
the Maltese countryside – among which are borage,
the off-peak months, when the countryside is at its
wild asparagus, nettle, wild fennel and caper – the
lushest, with the innovative visitor experience linked
Centre strives to find innovate ways of infusing wild
to quality tourism. All tours start with an engaging
and semi-wild edibles into its gastronomical practices.
audio-visual featuring THE CLIFFS Trail and a
Non-governmental organisations are important
handson explanation about seasonal local produce.
entities, which have been actively involved in
Here, visitors can also explore the trail in an
highlighting environmental issues. At local levels, most
accompanied walk with one of our local personnel.
NGOs are nationally-based and not directly involved in
• SOCIAL – The majority of the Centre’s employees live in Dingli. This has provided previously non-existent
the decision-making process. Nevertheless, local people are primary stakeholders because they have a
FEBRUARY 2019 ∫ Sunday Circle
55
CIRCLE PROMOTION
THE CLIFFS Local produce and revival of past traditions
Prestigious Recognition in Several Awards La Pinta Ltd is honoured to have received five awards in 2018 for its innovative concept: • First Prize in ‘Educational Programmes and Media’ of the Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards in recognition of companies employing sustainability operations within the tourism sector around the world. • European Bronze Award in the ‘Environmental Improvement and Sustainable Development’ category of the Green Apple Award for Environmental Best Practice 2018. This award
The use of wild edible plants in local gastronomy
honours best environmental practices at an international level. particular sense of belonging to the environment and are actively committed to making a positive difference. Hence, while
• First Prize in ‘Contributions by Cultural and Creative Industries’ by the European Cultural Tourism Network Sustainable Cultural Tourism Destination 2018. • Diploma of Recognition in the 2018 Anders Wall Award for creating a positive rural environment. • Third Prize in the Sustainable Enterprise Award by the Ministry
THE CLIFFS Interpretation
for the Economy, Investment and Small Businesses, which
Centre complements the
rewards significant
work being done by
contributions to the
environmental NGOs, the principles of the Centre are different since
sustainable development in
it operates as a self-sufficient entity.
the Maltese Islands.
As a local stakeholder, La Pinta Ltd has aimed to instil a sense of environmental awareness to all visitors. Through THE CLIFFS Interpretation Centre, it has managed to bring together various land users and stakeholders. Ultimately, the benefit to the environment and the community outweighs the financial value. Indeed, small enterprises such as the Centre are not only a source of local employment, but also provide consumers with services that aid in long-term sustainability. By thinking outside the box, the Centre will continue striving to educate people about their surroundings, while making visitors aware of what the environment is made of and why we need to respect it. Through this holistic project, we have learnt that change, although not easily implemented, is possible. The Centre and staff would like to thank the Dingli Local Council, other organisations, authorities, entities and individuals for their belief and support to create such a self-sufficient project. THE CLIFFS Interpretation Centre, Triq Panoramika, Dingli Cliffs, Dingli, Tel: 7964 2380, Email: discoverdinglicliffs@gmail.com, Web: www.thecliffs.com.mt
56 Sunday Circle ∫ FEBRUARY 2019