BUSINESS
|
LIFEST YLE
|
DESIGN
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N I S S U E 67
COVER STORY
20 10
DINO FINO
What’s in store?
HON. MIRIAM DALLI
Malta’s exponential growth
MARK CAMILLERI
Rebel with a cause
A L EKS FA RRUGI A & JON M A L L I A
Malta’s soft power potentials
32 38
WELCOME
Editor’s letter — October tends to be a relatively consistent month – we know what to expect; the
COVER
evenings start getting chilly, the academic year starts all over again, and it’s time for the Budget.
Dino Fino
However, this year, October is leaving us all with a sense of anticipation and uncertainty as
Read the full story on P.20
rumours of a general election abound. Will we be voting next month, or will we be left guessing for a while longer? What’s certain is that electoral campaigns are in full swing, with billboards sprouting all over the island, trying to sway our thoughts and opinions. Do we want to be the change or remain with what we’ve become used to? If we had to listen to Mark Camilleri, former Chairman of the National Book Council, he would advise us to vote for a third party or an independent candidate and give the two main parties a wide berth. But, instead, in his in-depth interview, he explains all about the motivation and reasoning that led him to write his just-released book, ‘A RentSeeker’s Paradise’. Of course, not everything revolves around politics. Since this issue focuses on design, arts, and creativity, we wanted to give space and recognition to those artists and entrepreneurs who add beauty, entertainment, and inventiveness to our lives. E D I T O R Anthony P. Bernard
Our cover story, household name Dino Fino, tells us about the expansion of the Dino Fino brand as they move into offering showroom space in
[anthony@moneymag.me]
and the launch of the Dino Fino Finance
p.l.c. Bond. We also hear from Minister Miriam Dalli about the Expo 2020 Dubai, where Malta is
D E S I G N BloomCreative
exhibiting to form collaborations with other countries that have the same aspirations and drive.
[bloomcreative.com.mt]
The Malta Pavilion is strategically located in the Opportunity District, close to the UAE pavilion, with the theme focusing on ‘Connecting Cultures, Generating Opportunities’.
P R I N T I N G Print It
However, the arts and theatre industry is still in limbo on the local scene as the government
D I S T R I B U T I O N JD Distributors
makes erratic decisions based on who can open and who cannot. Does it seem that sitting and eating is safer than sitting and watching a play – based on what scientific evidence, you ask? Who knows? MONEY is hand-delivered to businesses in Malta,
This is precisely what Edward Mercieca, chairperson of the theatre advisory committee at MEIA, is asking. A video of him taken earlier this year went viral on social media when he spoke vociferously about the effects of the government’s decisions about COVID-
and the theatre
including all managers and directors of the TOP 300 companies; iGaming, yachting and boating businesses, marinas, all 5-star hotels and boutique guesthouses including their business centres, executive lounges
and arts industry. He explains the situation further, pointing out that the creative sector was
and rooms (where allowed), embassies and Maltese
already struggling even before the pandemic hit, so their experience was incredibly bleak.
embassies abroad (UK, Rome, Brussels and Moscow);
Despite the strain that everyone has gone through due to COVID-
For information regarding promotion and advertising:
– and is still going through
because there are repercussions – we still try to find the positive moments that can give us
all government ministries and entities.
(+356) 2134 2155 · [hello@moneymag.me]
some hope and inspiration. Such as the ACS College in Malta offering opportunities for future designers through its BA in Product Design. These programmes are much needed for those students who are not drawn to the traditional academic subjects but whose talents lie in creativity. We also speak to local curator and artist Claude Camilleri as he delves into the brandnew world of NFTs and tells us about his character, Miloman.
Money is published by Be Communications Ltd,
Deborah Schembri takes us into the world of female CEOs – where the title still requires a gender
No. 81, Howard Street, Sliema, Malta SLM 1754
! " · [becommunications.com]
prefix to give it weighting and shatter the proverbial glass ceiling. However, the aftermath of COVID-
has also changed the working world, with the influx of ‘work from home’ options
becoming the norm and many entrepreneurs taking the plunge to set up their own business when they found themselves out of a job. So, perhaps we need to realise and appreciate the silver lining that the pandemic has presented us and continue to live our lives with a sense
All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without written permission. Opinions expressed in Money are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. All reasonable care is taken to ensure truth and accuracy, but the editor
of wellbeing for ourselves and our community as we understand the importance of
and publishers cannot be held responsible for errors
being adaptable to change and accountable for our actions
or omissions in articles, advertising, photographs or illustrations. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome
and decisions.
but cannot be returned without a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The editor is not responsible for
Have a lovely autumn season, and see you in the next issue.
04
material submitted for consideration.
I S S U E 67
MONEY
Banking | Custody | Investments Banking | Custody | Investments
Investment services are what we do. Our goal is to support you in managing your wealth and in protecting your legacy. At Sparkasse we have a team of professional financial advisors willing and competent to assist you with your investment needs. Our suite of services are geared to support you with your banking and investment requirements allowing you access to the world markets and your deposits through one relationship. Banking ! Investments - a personalised service through one relationship.
Speak to an advisor today. T: !"#$%&'%""#%()# E: PrivateBanking@sparkasse-bank-malta.com Sparkasse Bank Malta plc, 101 Townsquare, Ix-Xatt ta’ Qui-si-Sana, Sliema SLM3112, Malta. Sparkasse Bank Malta plc is a public limited liability company registered in Malta with registration number C27152 and registered office at 101 Townsquare, Ix-Xatt ta’ Qui-si-Sana, Sliema SLM3112, Malta. Sparkasse Bank Malta plc is licensed by the Malta Financial Services Authority to carry out the business of banking in terms of the Banking Act (Cap. 371 of the Laws of Malta), and to provide investment services and custody and depositary services in terms of the Investment Services Act (Cap. 370 of the Laws of Malta).
CONTENTS
08
20
32
The show must go on
What’s in store?
Rebel with a cause
In an exclusive interview, Edward Mercieca opens to Dayna Camilleri Clarke about his COVID-19 experience and charting the way forward from here.
10 Malta’s exponential growth The Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Sustainable Development, Hon. Miriam Dalli explains to Giselle Borg Olivier that Malta is taking full advantage of the long-awaited Dubai Expo 2020 by actively seeking collaborative opportunities with countries that share a complementary vision.
14 There’s something new in town
COVER STORY
Duncan Barry speaks to Dino Fino – the man behind an ever-famous and sturdy furniture brand – on the ongoing marketing campaigns, whether he has witnessed a change in the way customers purchase furniture and his firm’s plans for the future.
22
38 Malta’s soft power potentials
Pop master in the making Duncan Barry speaks to Claude Camilleri: a pop artist who has injected colour into the pop art scene under the brand Miloman.
26 Sustainable creativity The designers behind the leather brand The Fold – Suzi and Tina Mifsud – and multidisciplinary artist Laura Besancon, the name behind The Vintage Collection, joined forces to create a veritable tour de force sustainable fashion. Veronica Stivala unfolds the story.
The ACS College in Malta is launching the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Product Design to prepare the next generation of talents and boost the island’s creative spin. Federica Tadiello spoke to course lecturers and top-notch Italian designers and creative thinkers Stefano Ollino and Tobia Repossi.
06
Former National Book Council chairman, Mark Camilleri, speaks with Giselle Borg Olivier about his soon-to-bereleased exposé on the Labour Party and the secrets behind this political powerhouse.
Ray de Bono speaks to the former editor of the leading Maltese language Sunday newspaper, It-Torċa, branding expert, historian and renowned author Aleks Farrugia. He also met with firebrand Jon Mallia, a talk show host and thinker who brings an original mix of theatre, social commentary and public debate in a language that is fresh, sometimes shocking, but always to the point. The questions circle around the need to improve our cultural biosphere as part of Malta’s overall Soft Power credentials.
46 It’s all orange Over the past few years, the cultural sector was living through a revival phase. Buoyed by the increased tourism flows, performances, cultural events, and music shows and events became a tourism niche. Then the pandemic hit, and the tourism sector and cultural sector came crashing to a grinding halt. JP Fabri explains.
I S S U E 67
MONEY
CONTENTS
48 Seeding a greener world Looking back, we have given minimal weight or ignored how important the global environment is and how it can ultimately affect our wellbeing. Air pollution is undoubtedly one of the many focal points globally, with many projects being funded through favourable schemes by the private sector, while governments themselves are heavily investing in projects linked to achieving the environmental sustainability proposition. Jordan Portelli explains.
50 Creatives, designers, artists: this is a call to arms We have often been told to choose our battles wisely. Many times, this means walking away from a battle that matters. Choose this battle and choose it wisely because you and your industry have been taking the blows for too long. Edward Muscat Azzopardi asks.
Dayna is a senior speech therapist
and independent writer and proofreader.
When she’s not busy fixing words, she
She runs Content for Success.
is travelling the world and adding to her
E X P O P.10 | B O O K S P.32
fridge magnet collection. A R T S P.08 | D E S I G N P.52
Changing spaces It’s a new buzzing place on everyone’s lips; the Valletta Design Cluster (VDC) within the Valletta Cultural Agency — a legacy project of Valletta 2018, European Capital of Culture — is a community space for cultural and creative practice. Dayna Camilleri Clarke speaks to Caldon Mercieca, VDC manager.
MONEY
Jordan is an economist and CIO / portfolio manager for a local financial
Duncan has over two decades of experience in feature writing and
services company. G R E E N B O N D S P.48
journalism. He is also a freelance writer. In 2012, he was the national winner of the EU
52
Giselle is a marketing professional,
by day and feature writer by night.
JP is a founding partner at Seed,
Health Prize for Journalists.
a multi-disciplinary advisory practice.
C O V E R S T O R Y P.20 | P O P A R T P.22
C R E AT I V E E C O N O M Y P.46
Ed was born in
and is, to the
Over the last two decades, Ray
disappointment of many, still not dead.
has directed businesses in the
He tells stories for a living, engages in a
media, marketing and IT fields,
host of activities that don’t involve actual
focusing mainly on the international
physical activity, and likes food, film, travel,
market. [raydebono.com]
and cameras.
S O F T P O W E R P.38
M A R K E T I N G P.50
Veronica is a freelance writer and Digital marketer and content writer
editor. She won the IGM Award for her
with a passion for technology,
work on Ethical and Positive Disability
sustainability and innovation. When
in 2016.
Federica’s not working, you can find her
D E S I G N P.26
underwater or travelling. D E S I G N P.14
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
07
ARTS
THE SHOW MUST GO ON As one of Malta’s most highly regarded professionals in the theatre world, chairperson of the theatre advisory committee at MEIA and local actor Edward Mercieca is an inarguably household name. In an exclusive interview, Mercieca opens to Dayna Camilleri Clarke about his COVID-19 experience and charting the way forward from here.
08
I S S U E 67
MONEY
ARTS
“It’s been tough”, began Mercieca, “And I think
Attard on the impact of the pandemic on
the psychological effects for many are only
our Maltese artists identified a significant
starting to kick in now”.
number (41%) of the families of those who participated in the study were dependent on
The first case of COVID-
the income generated from their work in the
in Malta was
reported on March 7, 2020, and, to this day,
arts. Furthermore, many of these artists work
this uncertainty still lingers for those working
on short-term contracts with no advance
in the arts. The fear of the unknown is still the
payments, putting them in a vulnerable and
cause of great concern and disruptions in the
challenging position.
daily lives of those working in the sector. The picture sounds bleak. So, what is the Undeniably, the pandemic has had a direct
solution, I ask Mercieca? “Vaccine passports
medical, economic, social and cultural hit on
will be integral to the survival of the arts. In the
everyone. Many families have experienced
UK, West End shows are going ahead as usual.
a decline or loss in wages, with some even
We must pick up the pace here. Locally, we are
suffering unemployment. For most of us, the
planning some trial mass events with various
home has become an office and a classroom
stakeholders. Slowly but surely, the business
for our children. Of course, the full effects of
will resume. We are fortunate the MEIA, Malta’s
the pandemic will only be known in the fullness
Entertainment and Art Industry’s Association,
of time. But it is undoubtedly one of the
was set up over COVID- . It’s a great body which has come together to fight our cause”.
most profound and challenging events of our history, particularly for artists.
We were one of the first sectors to shut instantly and one of the last to reopen. In fact,
The MEIA has spent months campaigning for
“We all know that these changes will have a
at present, we still have not fully resumed.
standing events to be allowed, saying that
massive impact, not only here in Malta but
It’s so challenging to plan productions;
many were struggling to make ends meet as
on societies around the world. But, again, no
rehearsals and auditions can take months,
the industry was the only one yet to reopen
one knows how it will turn out,” continued
and that right now is too risky for any private
despite the island’s strong vaccine drive.
Mercieca. He added, “Locally speaking, there
entity to take on. What if we started today,
Earlier in summer, artists, entertainers and
is an immense misconception that the arts are
and come February, everything is locked
event organisers took to the streets in Valletta
a hobby, and those working within the sector
down again? There’s a limit to how long we
to protest, saying they were not being included
can easily switch to a ‘proper’ job. Stigmas like
can keep postponing things. What we want is
in the government’s recovery plan.
this have been reinforced by the pandemic,
a level playing field. Events are going ahead,
things we have been fighting to overcome
albeit socially distanced and seated. From a
“We keep on repeating the same message that
for years. It’s not just the actors themselves.
financial point of view, it doesn’t make sense
our industry needs sufficient planning time. We
There’s lighting staff, writers, directors,
to hire a vast venue like MFCC and sell just a
call on Saħħa [the Health Ministry] to support
dancers, musicians, and so many more who
handful of tickets to fit in line with protocols.
us,” continued Mercieca.
lost everything overnight.
The protocols themselves require an immense
Ultimately, we still do not have enough relaxation of protocols to hold financially viable productions.
MONEY
infrastructure, from temperature checks to
“What worries me, unfortunately, is that we
ensuring enough sanitisation.”
live in a country where who shouts loudest and stamps his feet hardest gets his way.
When it comes to working constraints,
What’s more, because traditionally, artists
Mercieca explained, “To put you in the picture,
and people involved in the performing arts are
even before the pandemic, artists’ working
not generally that kind of person, it worries
conditions were challenging at best. Most do
me that performing arts schools might be
not have a regular salary, constantly chase
relegated down the list in the future.
late payments for their work and are prone to underpay and undervalued. The pandemic has
Ultimately, we still do not have enough
worsened the situation, with the closure of
relaxation of protocols to hold financially
theatres and other venues, the cancellation of
viable productions. We are crying out for
events and exhibitions and the restriction of a
this to happen. Nothing short of ordinary
host of other engagements (such as weddings,
capacity houses will suffice. After all, we are
gigs, clubs and restaurants) which artists have
only asking the government to allow what has
relied on to pay their bills.”
been happening illegally throughout summer with no COVID-
repercussions. I repeat - we
There’s no denying the industry has been
want a level playing field! It would be highly
shaken to its very core. A recently published
discriminatory if this does not happen to the
research study by Valerie Visanich and Toni
arts sector,” Mercieca concluded.
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
EXPO
MALTA’S EXPONENTIAL GROWTH The long-awaited Dubai Expo 2020 is finally up and running after being derailed by Covid-19. The Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Sustainable Development, Hon. Miriam Dalli explains to Giselle Borg Olivier that Malta is taking full advantage of this event by actively seeking collaborative opportunities with countries that share a complementary vision.
Malta’s theme statement for Dubai Expo
is the island that brings together similar
pavilion is within the Opportunity thematic
2020 is Connecting Cultures, Generating
countries to discuss climate change,
district, which is precisely our chance to
Opportunities. So, what will Malta gain by
sustainability, and innovation in energy and
maximise our prospects as a country.
participating in the Expo?
water, amongst others.
Expo 2020 Dubai is the ultimate opportunity
The sub-themes of the Dubai Expo 2020 are
networking opportunities, communicate
to explore the world without travelling far
Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability.
with foreign trade delegations and
and wide. The fundamental aim of an Expo is
How do these themes match with Malta’s
encourage Maltese businesses, entities and
to connect different countries in one central
economic vision?
stakeholders to benefit from this platform
The government intends to extend its
throughout the six months’ duration of
location. Its prime focus is revealing each country’s core characteristics – culture,
Our country’s vision is to decarbonise our
Expo 2020 Dubai. Mobility and sustainability
history, trade, business enterprises, and more.
economy by 2050 and to do so we need to
are crucial for the country’s 2050 vision,
invest in innovation and make operations in all
targeting green energy, conservation, and
economic sectors more sustainable. Malta’s
environmental balance.
There is no doubt that Malta is actively seeking opportunities to connect with these countries. The thematic ideas of sustainability, innovation, trade - where we have several companies interested in exporting to the Middle East - are being discussed. Expo 2020 Dubai will help entrepreneurs gain a foothold in this particular geographical area. Attracting further foreign investment is a prime topic on our agenda, which is why networking is of paramount importance. Given the many consumer-oriented people visiting the Expo in Dubai we are also concentrating on tourism since the event is a catchment area for tourism. In fact, we are closely liaising with the Malta Tourism Authority to promote Malta as the Final Destination through our pavilion. Malta as the Final Destination is not just about tourism but also about attracting business opportunities. In addition, Malta
10
I S S U E 67
MONEY
EXPO
Expo 2020 Dubai will help entrepreneurs gain a foothold in this particular geographical area. countries, including Germany, Italy, Slovenia,
to the thematic weeks outlined in Expo 2020
Norway and Australia, amongst others,
Dubai, from the perspective of both a demand
to organise joint events that will focus on
and supply approach. Malta Enterprise has
networking and business opportunities.
explored different standpoints and evaluated areas where we want to continue expanding
Which local businesses and entities will be
our objectives concerning Malta’s vision on
collaborating with the Malta Pavilion at the
tolerance and inclusivity, space planning,
Expo?
climate and biodiversity. We will be attending, participating in, and networking at several
The Malta Pavilion is open to all the business
events focusing on these topics. We are also
Expos provide a platform for cross-cultural
community in Malta. We are looking at several
looking at hosting meetings or events that can
collaboration among countries to shape
areas of interest in the region, including real
bring countries with similar characteristics to
nations for a better future ahead. Which
estate and property industries, education and
ours to exchange ideas.
are the countries that Malta is looking to
knowledge, financial services and technology,
collaborate with, and on what ventures and
health and start-ups. If we look at education,
projects?
for example, Malta attracts a good number of students at university level and even beyond.
For logistic reasons we tend to look toward our neighbouring countries and those with a large
We shall also be having a financial services
trade balance, either importing or exporting.
industry trade delegation to further explore
Therefore, we will enhance collaboration with
the opportunities within the UAE and the
these countries, cross-matching topics and
Gulf countries. Another industry that is also
commercial and industrial areas with our trade
important is IT and tech, as it serves as a pull
delegations. We will also demonstrate our
factor for investors and businesses.
culture and history. In addition, we will explore the possibilities of connecting with other
As part of the Expo’s Programme for People
countries taking part in Expo 20202 Dubai.
and Planet, ten theme weeks will run
Dubai is an exciting hub in The Gulf main area,
throughout the six months of Dubai Expo
and the United Arab Emirates are a powerful
2020, including climate and biodiversity,
platform for Maltese business people to tap
space, and tolerance & inclusivity. To what
into as a trade base.
degree will Malta be contributing to any of these ten theme weeks?
As explained, the Malta Pavilion will showcase Malta and the opportunities that exist. Malta
Malta Enterprise has striven to tap into the
Enterprise is, in fact, in talks with other
opportunities that Malta can benefit from due
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
11
PROMO
THE MALTA PAVILION
Expo 2020 Dubai has opened its doors to Malta and the world. The Malta Pavilion is strategically
includes a conference room, a
One hundred ninety-two countries
A world of entertainment, culture,
located in the Opportunity
meeting room, a boardroom and
will participate in Expo 2020
technology, cuisine and more
District, close to the UAE pavilion,
break out areas.
Dubai, which will host up to 60 live
come together at Expo 2020
events a day. Through its theme,
Dubai, as nations from across
with the theme focusing on ‘Connecting Cultures, Generating
Malta will use this platform
‘Connecting Minds, Creating the
the globe gather in the UAE for
Opportunities’. Spread over two
to showcase what we offer,
Future’, Expo 2020 Dubai is a
an unforgettable six-month
floors, the Malta Pavilion will
including a thriving economy,
platform to encourage creativity,
celebration.
welcome the visitors into four
industry incentives, business
innovation and collaboration
zones: tourism, investment and
opportunities, cultural and
across our three subthemes:
For further information, contact
trade, innovation and creativity
historical diversity and tourism;
Opportunity, Mobility and
us at maltapavilion-expo2020@
and lifestyle. The second floor
the final destination: Malta!
Sustainability.
maltaenterprise.com.
12
I S S U E 67
MONEY
OPENING END OF 2021
WHERE DO YOU WANT TO WORK?
Located on the perimeter of Malta’s Central Business District and surrounded by spectacular views, Quad high performing workspaces.
FOR BUSINESS LESS ORDINARY 2778 8300 | 7949 8555
thequad.com.mt
38,000m2 7,000m2 Open Spaces & Piazzas 6,000m2 Retail & Leisure Outlets 900m2 Fitness Centre 1,400+ Parking Spaces 105 Bicycle Spaces Turning Workspaces into Lifespaces. Highly competitive rates for both leasing and sales. Let’s talk.
DESIGN
THERE’S SOMETHING NEW in TOWN The ACS College in Malta is launching the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Product Design to prepare the next generation of talents and boost the island’s creative spin. Federica Tadiello spoke to course lecturers and top-notch Italian designers and creative thinkers Stefano Ollino and Tobia Repossi.
14
I S S U E 67
MONEY
DESIGN
On this page: Candy Coffee Mug (Stefano Ollino)
Stefano and Tobia, can you please introduce
multinational company, I started collaborating
I had the chance to work in many
yourselves?
with local brands that allowed me to explore
design fields such as communication,
the different fields of design: house furnishing,
advertisement and visuals in general, an
SO - I’m a product designer and founder of
smart devices, kitchen and accessories. But it
experience that nowadays I try to convey
Stefano Ollino Design Studio and True Flava, a
was with tap and appliance design that I had
to my students. I founded Tobia Repossi &
UI/UX and brand design agency. I started my
the most significant rewards. I won my first
Partners, an international design studio with
career 12 years ago, working in Italy and China,
international prize (Red Dot Design Award and
a portfolio of projects executed for major
where I had projects in Xiamen, Shanghai,
IF Design Award) thanks to a touch screen tap
Chinese brands. In addition, we designed
Shenzhen and Guangzhou. Over the years,
design (see picture). I won other awards, but
for European and American market-leading
we have developed more than 100 projects
the first is never forgotten.
companies that have their production and R&D in Asia. In my role, I work very closely
between physical and digital products. TR - I graduated from Politecnico di Milano at
with stakeholders, customers and suppliers,
TR - I am a designer and have been in furniture,
the end of the nineties in architecture because
offering a return on investment approach.
electronic appliances and accessories design
there was no design faculty in Italy. It was
for over twenty-five years. I have worked
a common belief that product design was
I have a natural talent for communication
for market-leading brands in China, Europe
strictly connected with architecture because
and broad experience in teaching,
and America, and startups from China to
architects designed furniture and interiors.
mentoring and delivering public talks. These
Silicon Valley. My designs have been sold in
skills have benefitted from my experience
Apple Stores and other renowned stores and
as an academic at Politecnico di Milano
selected for international awards. Today, I
Faculty of Design and IED (Istituto Europeo
direct the Arkin Innovation Hub in Cyprus,
del Design). I also acted as a chief academic
which connects practical skills and academic
officer and advisor to the chief executive
research for the global demand for creativity
officer for developing international
and innovation.
partnerships.
Would you mind telling us more about your
My works have been selected for the
work and the awards won?
Compasso d’Oro Prize, Design Index, Mediastars, Modern Decoration Award,
SO - I had the opportunity to go abroad, and
A’Design Award and Red Dot Award and
after six months of internship in a Chinese
published in magazines and newspapers. »
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
15
DESIGN
On this spread: Secur’Egg for Aitivity; Mosquito Band Zapkito for Visiomed; Bluetooth Speaker for Kerry Audio; USB Drives for Maikii (Tobia Repossi)
With the methodologies described by your very own Edward de Bono in the fifties, Design Thinking is an excellent tool to think outside the box and invent new services, products or interfaces. — Tobia Repossi In addition, I’ve been ranked 22nd in the
SO - I agree. The concept of a designer as
designers, systemic designers or user
world for Electronic Appliances by DAC, 40th
a craftsman is a bit old. Today, a designer
interface designers: their work is only focused
designer in China by World Designer Rankings
must have a broader view: the “objects” are
on the intangible ecosystem.
and 106th in the world.
not limited to fulfilling their function in the space only, but more and more often, they
TR - The concept of ‘design’ has changed and
What projects are you currently
are the physical and actual part of a broader
expanded over recent years. It now embraces
working on?
ecosystem. The designer must take into
a far more comprehensive range of areas
account several intangible elements that form
than the traditional ideas of physical objects.
SO - Teaching aside, the most exciting project
part of the user experience. He must take
Design now embraces new fields such as
my team and I are working on - together with
into account issues such as sustainability,
information transfer, visual design, interaction
Tobia - is a product in the IoT field (Internet
the social impact that a product might have.
design, motion design within a broader range
of Things), which will be presented at the
The designer is turning into a complete
of domains, such as marketing, architecture,
Dubai World Expo at the end of October.
professional who is very different from the
industrial design, etc.
Unfortunately, I can’t reveal more, but I hope I
romantic idea of the objects and furniture
will be able in the next few months.
craftsman.
In my case, I try to focus on the design of
Don’t get me wrong, a designer will still
industrial products as I feel that ideas creation,
TR - I am working on designing electronic
design chairs and stuff, but today you can
prototyping, and production are crucial for our
appliances for Silicon Valley and some Chinese
be considered a designer even without ever
society while also being personally satisfying.
hardware startups. I am also involved in
thinking of an object. Just think of interaction
designing and constructing a natural park
We hear more and more of “design thinking”
and a science museum in Cyprus, which will
as a mindset and approach that can also be
be one of the biggest projects of this kind in
applied to business. Could you explain to us
Europe. In addition, I also teach at ARUCAD
what it is and what it has in common with
(Arkin University of Creative Arts and Design
design?
in Cyprus) and soon at the Italian College of Design and ACS College in Malta.
SO - We could talk about design thinking forever. However, I will try to be as concise
Probably there’s a bit of confusion about the
as possible without getting lost in too many
term “design”. This word reminds many of
technicalities. Design Thinking is a creative
house furnishing, while this world is much
process that aims to achieve a verifiable result
more varied.
quickly: it is mainly used to innovate products,
16
I S S U E 67
MONEY
DESIGN
services and business models, but it can
Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Product Design.
be applied to any area that requires finding
Can you explain to us what it is and how the
solutions to complex problems. Using a series
project was born?
of techniques that focus on understanding the problem, questioning assumptions and testing
SO - Thanks to ACS and above all to its
hypotheses, it is possible to solve the problem
President Dario Silvestri, I am given the
by finding unexpected, innovative or hidden
opportunity to live an unprecedented
ideas. And if they are not innovative ideas per
academic career experience for me. The
se, we can reasonably assume that they are
Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Product Design is
practical solutions as they have been tested.
only one of the courses issued by the Italian College of Design (ICoD), a 360° academic
TR - Encyclopaedias have been written about
in the fifties, Design Thinking is an excellent
project in the world of design and of which I
design methodologies: it feels as though
tool to think outside the box and invent new
have the honour of being appointed Head of
designers build their personal methodology
services, products or interfaces.
College. The project was born from the vision
whenever they have free time. Design thinking
of Dario Silvestri and his ability to find market
is nothing new, and it’s just a way to put in
I think the process has a specific deficiency
order the production chain of ideas. The
at its core which is answering the question,
methodology of design built by Bruno Munari
“where do I find ideas?”. I’m a fan of a process
TR - Teaching at the ACS College in Malta is
in the sixties has nothing different except
called Synesthesia - often used in movies
an exciting and, at the same time, challenging
the names of the actual concepts of Design
and psychology: this term refers to cross
opportunity. In a very connected and cloud-
Thinking.
fielding or cross-pollination of ideas. So if I
based field, as the design is today, you can find
But sometimes, giving a structure to a
find myself designing a new game controller, I
yourself designing products from everywhere
process, especially in creativity, is a way to be
want to look at the entire market of controllers
and for everyone. As a result, places
more productive and efficient.
and some other fields where the interaction
considered outside the design environment
between hand and tool is robust, like utensils
can today be central and develop new
or kitchenware or something else.
businesses. Because product design today
Companies are taking extensive advantage of this methodology, especially in their most
opportunities in apparently saturated areas.
is one of the fastest-growing businesses, it
creative departments. With the methodologies
Together with other lecturers, you will
represents a massive opportunity for Malta,
described by your very own Edward de Bono
teach at ACS College in Malta for the
and ACS College can become central to this »
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
17
DESIGN
On this page: Melolab Earbuds; Sunrise Faucet (Stefano Ollino)
A designer must have a broader view: the “objects” are not limited to fulfilling their function in the space only, but more and more often, they are the physical and actual part of a broader ecosystem. — Stefano Ollino process. Dario Silvestri intelligently caught
When will the first edition of the course
and to be able to grasp all its facets. I got
this opportunity with his innovative vision, and
start? Is there interest from the locals?
the impression that the mix of cultures and traditions and its significant technological
it will be beneficial to the design and creative environment of the island.
SO - The course will start at the beginning of
and innovative improvements make it an
2022. We have noticed considerable interest
exciting place with good potential.
When it comes to teaching design, what do
from our target audience. One of the reasons
you think are the most important teachings
is that we will be dealing with the most
TR - I have been there as a tourist,
to convey to students today?
current and disruptive topics in design and
appreciating the island’s amenities, and I
communication.
have colleagues living there. I look forward to seeing more about the design and creative
SO - I believe that today more than ever, students are looking for mentors, figures to
Have you ever been to Malta before? Did
atmosphere of the place and hopefully be a
be inspired by and to be able to say: “I want
you get to know the local design and
part of it.
to be like him”. If I look back to when I was
creative scene? For more information on the various
a student, the teachers who left the best impression were those who told me about
SO - Yes, and I hope to be able to come more
courses and degree programmes, visit
their personal experiences, their path, the
and more often to experience the island fully
www.acs-college.edu.mt
ones who overcame that barrier of “I teach, you learn” and are open to sharing their stories. How they achieved their successes and what they learned from their failures. In the design world, especially, the technical part is only the tip of the iceberg, as being a designer means being open to contamination, to the culture of aesthetics and innovation, to passion and the continuous search for the creation of something that doesn’t exist. This is what I think is most important: telling about experiences, conveying the culture of the project and stimulating students to learn by living real design experiences. This last point will be one of the main elements of innovation that we will bring to ICoD.
18
I S S U E 67
MONEY
Technogym Bench 1 bench, over 200 exercises at your fingertips, everything you need to perform the widest variety of total body workouts, all in a compact footprint. Whatever your fitness level or goal, our dedicated content will be your personal coach to help you achieve your objectives faster than ever.
Official Distributor: Vivendo, Mdina Road, Qormi.
COVER STORY
WHAT’S IN STORE? Duncan Barry speaks to Dino Fino – the man behind an ever-famous and sturdy furniture brand – on the ongoing marketing campaigns, whether he has witnessed a change in the way customers purchase furniture and his firm’s plans for the future.
Dino, can you give us a recap on your
furnishings at affordable prices, but not only.
the moment. Once the customer decides to
latest products?
It offers an experience. Customers who visit
decorate their home with Dino Fino furniture
the Dino Fino showroom are treated to a feast
and furnishings, they enjoy the quality of
Dino Fino is a brand that has been growing
for the senses; beautiful furniture that offers
life needed in this modern age. Hence the
since its beginning four years ago. Dino
maximum comfort. This setup makes the
company motto - Experience. Live. Enjoy.
Fino Home offers high-quality furniture and
customer feel as if they were at home, living
In the past four years, the Dino Fino Home arm has seen incredible growth and continues to develop at a fast pace. The next landmark is an extension to the showroom that will be ready towards the end of the year, aiming to improve the company’s display of fabrics, wallpaper and home decorations. Dino Fino Contract is a growing arm of the company which deals with corporate and business clients. In March 2022, Dino Fino Contract will launch 600 square meters of showroom space on the second floor, dedicated to contract clients and catering to offices, hotels, restaurants and coffee shops. Dino Fino Home + Contract represents over
furniture brands in Malta, offering
high-quality products focusing on style and design. The suppliers’ emphasis on unique design leads to stylish furniture pieces while utilising top quality materials, ensuring the comfort and functionality of the items produced. The Dino Fino brand is in constant evolution. We envisage healthy growth for the Dino Fino Home + Contract and the Dino Fino Outlet operations; however, we also envisage developments in other areas of industry. Can you give us some insight on the level of quality used to manufacture your furniture? All furniture supplied by Dino Fino is produced abroad by professional suppliers who take great care in the quality of the items produced that are carefully designed to conform with modern-day trends. The suppliers’ emphasis on unique design leads
20
I S S U E 67
MONEY
COVER STORY
to stylish furniture pieces while utilising top quality materials ensures comfort and functionality of the items produced. What makes your firm stand out in the local furniture industry? Having been involved in the furniture retail industry for over 20 years, I have acquired vast experience that I’m now applying to nurture my company. Today, the Dino Fino brand is in its 4th year and is garnering considerable success due to its emphasis on quality service and customer satisfaction. In a fast-moving industry like retail, it is essential to take decisions quickly, especially when trying to attract the younger sector of the market and high-end commercial contractors. This drives me to develop a
should be. Inevitably, many customers still
We have come across the campaign you
brand that is young and fresh by fostering a
prefer to visit the showroom to see and touch
launched. What is the message you are
team culture. In fact, I make it a point to be on
the furniture and furnishings before deciding.
trying to convey, and how is the campaign
the floor with the team as much as possible,
performing?
creating a healthy team environment that
Indeed, the online shopping phenomenon has
translates into quality service. My vision is
been steadily growing, and many customers
We have numerous campaigns going on,
to take the brand to market leadership and
have been resorting to online portals to buy
targeting different segments of the market.
diversify into other industry sectors.
items for their homes. Having observed this
The aim is to raise awareness about the Dino
market niche, we developed outlet.dinofino.
Fino brand to entice engagement, leading to
Have you seen a significant shift in
com, an online furniture store separate from
conversion.
the way consumers purchase products
Dino Fino Home + Contract that aims to offer
such as the use of online media?
great furniture and furnishings to online
The Dino Fino Group of Companies has many
customers at significantly reduced prices.
projects in store as it aspires to reach market
The Maltese market takes shopping for
leadership but also strives for diversification,
furniture very seriously. Home is every Maltese
Thanks to these two sales channels, Dino
becoming a multi-faceted organisation
family’s pride and joy, and that’s the way it
Fino ensures a broad market reach and is
with a portfolio of business units that are
now geared to cater to traditional buyers and
professional and profitable.
modern-day online shoppers.
The recent launch of the Dino Fino Finance
What changes has the company
p.l.c. Bond is evidence of the growth
seen post-COVID-19 in terms of services
experienced by the company, and as the brand
and products?
grows, the thinking process of the company
Today, the Dino Fino brand is in its 4th year and is garnering considerable success due to its emphasis on quality service and customer satisfaction. MONEY
needs to develop too. Thus, a new board of The recent pandemic taught us to be ready
directors has been established, which will
for anything and that we should always
bring experience and a new mindset to the
allocate time to sit, think, plan and restructure.
Dino Fino concept.
Embracing these experiences is crucial as they
make us stronger. Moreover, the digital world is
Any plans we can look forward to in the not
developing quickly, and the recent lockdowns
too distant future?
further increased the customers’ use of online technology to carry out their purchases.
The Dino Fino brand is in constant evolution.
We envisage healthy growth for the Dino Fino
Having recognised this development,
Home + Contract operation and the Dino Fino
Dino Fino developed online services that
Outlet operation; however, we also envisage
allow customers to book personal online
developments in other areas of industry.
consultations with our designers and purchase their furniture from the comfort of
Visit www.dinofino.com to keep informed
their homes.
about the developments of the company.
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
21
POP ART
POP MASTER in the making
Duncan Barry speaks to Claude Camilleri: a pop artist who has injected colour into the pop art scene under the brand Miloman.
Photo by Federico Peltretti
22
I S S U E 67
MONEY
POP ART
Can you explain to our readers what pop art is all about? Pop art is BOLD. VIBRANT. LOUD. It started as an art movement in the late fifties with subjects varying from everyday goods and products to images of industrialisation, commercialism, politics and celebrity. This genre, in my opinion, is as bold as conceptual art, different in approach, shocking or meaningless. Both genres converge objects or images to discussion topics, non-discussion or gaze; if it’s pop art or doodle art, it will stand out! You were working with international artists and promoting their work. What inspired you to take up this art personally, and when? Can you give us a brief of how it all started? During the lockdown, access to artists and art became limited. Although one could connect online, when it came to art, the thrill of seeing artwork in person had an unparalleled experience to that of nonphysical form. Last year I sketched and doodled unconscious, nonsense forms and shapes. One page of multiple images became two, and two became five. Finally, after going through numerous sketchbooks, the character appeared in all its entirety. A mouth like Edvard Munch’s Scream, a blood orange garment, which could belong to a monk or a prisoner, and of course the main protagonist, a dog head, painted in lemon yellow, the character’s hair, also moving and alive. This free-spirited environmentalist, sometimes
with attitude, is instantly recognisable at first glance. Hello Miloman,
Today I work with signature sizes and use a signature colour palette.
welcome to the world!
My work includes visuals too. Both mediums complement each other,
and they are a great combination aesthetically and kinetically. For me
You have emerged with a character named Miloman. Where does the
transitioning from a curator to an artist was a big step. If I were going to
name derive from?
go in this direction, it would have to be worth the while.
My muse and four-legged best friend, Milo, my dog, was always by my
To get noticed, I focused on contrasts and perspectives. My work would
side anytime I doodled or painted. So, it was a no brainer to include
need to be enjoyed and understood across the spectrum, from children
his name in character. It was meant to be...Miloman. It reminded me of
to adults, and everyone in between. So today, I can say clearly Miloman
Japanese animation characters (anime) — one word, easy, memorable.
can become an international brand. Miloman is spreading colour to the
world one super fan at a time.
You have had a successful art show most recently. What direction
for growth is there in the art industry at present? And personally?
An Indi game developer has approached me to create a video game
with Miloman as the main character. This is beyond exciting. Miloman
Yes, thanks, it was indeed. Miloman’s art show was exceptional. The vibe
is coming to life. Literally. I see collaborations as a way forward both
of the people made it so. The bright, bold subjects, the simplicity in the
personally and for creatives. Together a lot can be done. Leverage and
works, easy for anyone to enjoy and affordable for anyone to collect.
synergy are key.
I believe each artist owns their path. This always makes art so exciting,
The NFTs digital asset world recent rise in popularity has promised to
liberating. For me, experimentation was key. Finding the mediums by
revolutionise the creative industry. Thus, there’s talk that people in the
which to express myself is essential.
NFT sector have approached you to contribute your works. »
This free-spirited environmentalist, sometimes with attitude, is instantly recognisable at first glance. Hello Miloman, welcome to the world! MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
23
POP ART
Recently I have been approached by someone in the NFT sector (non-
All three artists, Ed Schembri, Rafael Labro and Clemens
fungible token is a unit of data stored on a digital ledger, called a
Hasendegarethn, were all loved and gone too soon. While words for such
blockchain, certifies a digital asset to be unique and therefore not
circumstances cannot bring comfort, they will be present in spirit and
interchangeable. NFTs can represent items such as photos, videos,
through their work.
audio, and other types of digital
files). A friend had commented
They all had different styles.
that I should consider NFTs. So,
For example, Ed Schembri had
I followed his suggestion and
a diverse palette, known for
briefly did some research a few
figurative works, expressionism,
months ago. Whilst instantly
with collections such as
bewildered by the opportunity
renditions and interpretations
this could give creatives, I knew
of Frida Kahlo. Raphael Labro
that without groundwork, be it tech, PR, or other, success would
was a neo-psychedelic artist; his Edward Schembri, Rafael Labro, Clemens Hasendegarethn
primary subjects included grand
Pop art is BOLD... as bold as conceptual art, different in approach, shocking or meaningless.
be slim unless some direction were imposed. So, a plan has been set in
metaphorical images of Goddesses and abstract works of the cosmos
motion, and research on NFT for Miloman is being done as we speak.
and universe.
But, before we launch, we need to do some groundwork first.
Clemens Hasengschwandtner was neo-pop. Cubist. Colourful, detailed,
What’s in it for pop artists like you when using such tokens? Is the
vibrant paintings of people, seascapes and landscapes. Contemporary,
aim to have digital artists gain formal recognition for their work
vibrant renditions of the island, including its characters and felines too.
and instil a sense of secured ownership of an artist’s works?
May they rest in peace.
NFTs give back directly to the artist. No intermediary or auction house.
It’s a sense of liberation being able to connect with the outside world
Any final words, aspirations or thoughts?
and build a sense of community and appreciation from the comfort of
your living space.
I aspire to create a Miloman world, creating art shows and visual
experiences in major cities around the globe, like Yayoi Kusama’s art. I
We lost well-known local artists, Rafael Labro and Clemens
wish to collaborate with international artists like Murakami and Romero
Hasengschwandtner, including my school friend, Ed Schembri.
Britto. I want all my artwork to soar in physical form and through
What impact have these unfortunate incidents left in the art
NFTs. This will happen with the proper patronage, the right team and
industry locally?
Miloman’s incredible fans.
Heartbreaking. The loss for our community is overwhelming.
You can find Miloman on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok.
24
I S S U E 67
MONEY
DESIGN
SUSTAINABLE CREATIVITY The designers behind the leather brand The Fold – Suzi and Tina Mifsud – and multidisciplinary artist Laura Besancon, the name behind The Vintage Collection, joined forces to create a veritable tour de force sustainable fashion. Veronica Stivala unfolds the story.
The coming together of the designers behind leather brand
in Barcelona. Many people’s solution to this has been
The Fold and multidisciplinary artist Laura Besancon,
the waist bag or fanny pack, which, while functional, is
who set up the second-hand shop The Vintage Collection,
definitely not stylish. Enter Suzi and Tina, who combined
has resulted in a beautiful exploration into vintage and
their backgrounds in architecture, fine art and design to
contemporary. And… it’s sustainable.
create The Fold. As the name gives away, the products are made by simply folding the leather. They are then held
Indeed, the three artists Suzi Mifsud and Tina Mifsud of The
together with a few studs. Apart from being innovative,
Fold and Besancon are all firm advocates of sustainable
the pouches are also environmentally friendly in that their
fashion. The three came together to create a photoshoot as
design minimises waste and stitching.
models wore items sourced by Besancon, styled with The Fold’s leather creations. More of this later.
The pouches are all made from just two materials: an irresistibly soft and durable leather discovered at a tannery
26
But first, you must be asking, what is The Fold? The Fold
in San Miniato, Italy, and brass hardware that holds the
is the brainchild of Suzi and Tina, interestingly inspired
fold together. The creatives currently have four designs on
by their fear of pickpockets during their time spent living
offer that come with matching belts. Named after one of
I S S U E 67
MONEY
DESIGN
four favourite spots in Barcelona, the pouches are available in three colours, shades of black, green, and red: nero, sottobosco and fiamma. In its most compact design is the Apolo pouch, the ideal detachable compartment for travelling light. Slightly larger, the rectangular Palau is equally compact, light and versatile and can be worn around the waist, diagonally across the body or even without the belt as an elegant clutch bag. A pouch for the urban explorer, the Macba will have you stand out thanks to its versatile orientation and snazzy flap. Finally, the latest addition to the collection, the Mila, has some added depth with a quirky, inverted corner that makes it an eye-catching item to wear across the chest or fasten around the waist. Supporting other businesses is strong on The Fold’s agenda, and they teamed up with Maltese outlet The Vintage Collection, styling their models for their photoshoots with the shop’s pre-loved garments. Speaking about the collaboration, Besancon, says: “it was an exploration of our mutual interest in both vintage and contemporary aesthetics. A way of anchoring vintage in a contemporary world, and a love for quality-made, timeless items.” Besancon invited Suzi and Tina to browse her collection, play dress-up, and create outfits that inspired them the most. They then combined the outfits with the different coloured fold pouches, wearing cross-body bags and belt pouches. The pouches worked well with the chosen
garments, especially when contrasted with patterned
All three artists are strong advocates for sustainable
blouses, block colours, and double denim outfits.
fashion. Speaking about their goals as a business, both
Suzi and Tina are adamant “to produce something unique
“Creating these looks as opposed to a full-on vintage look
in its craftsmanship yet stylish and functional”. They go
was very inspiring,” she notes, adding how she is “very
on to add how their “main concept is that of zero stitching;
interested in the in-between, not only in fashion but also
everything is held together by hardware.” As a result, they
in [her] artistic practice. For people who shy away from
are always looking for ways to be the most sustainable they
wearing vintage, [she feels] that this may offer a different
can.
perspective on the possibilities of vintage.”
Besancon’s drive behind sustainability has its roots in various pots if you will. Before becoming an artist, Besancon started as a photographer and was always looking for moments, spaces and situations to capture, to collect in a way. Before her MA at the Royal College of Art, she pursued a Bachelors in Communications with Psychology at the University of Malta and at the same time worked in retail for a couple of years. “The excess witnessed, certain working conditions, and not knowing about the supply chain was not motivating, especially when I became more knowledgeable and aware about the effects of the fashion industry on climate change. However, these experiences motivated me to be part of the change and to use my experiences for the better,” she points out. »
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
27
DESIGN
Admittedly, transparency with regards to the supply
the way I approach work - fostering friendships, sharing
chain is not so common nowadays. But where does
knowledge and inspiration with like-minded individuals,
Besancon source her clothes? “A combination of a
and creatives striving to positively impact change and
myriad of ways,” she confides, adding that ‘being
sustainability practices. Her future is collaborative.
a relatively small curated collection, purposefully
symbolising a capsule-style wardrobe, and a slower,
Speaking about their future, The Fold designers say they
creative mindset towards clothing, it is important for
want to continue to push their creativity to the limit. So,
me to be enthusiastic about every garment – hence the
the future for The Fold will see more colours, shapes
various sources.”
and sizes, new designs, all with a similar concept to the
previous collection; think mix and match.
My latest sourcing endeavours include one very close
to home. I got vintage-filled luggage back to Malta with
Speaking of mix and matching, the three designers
items I found in my grandparent’s attic in a countryside
worked so well together, and we certainly have not seen
house in France. Immaculate condition, lined up, hanging
the last of their collaboration. In Tina’s words, “We feel
in a wardrobe. No one had been up there in years, and it
like our styles complement each other well, and there is
was my first time! Other times it is small purchases online
definitely so much more room for collaborations. We’ll
after hours of browsing, other times from some contacts
work together again once the new collection is done.”
made whilst living abroad, occasionally a few items
found locally, and recently some handpicked items from
As designers, the three creatives are making bold steps
private individuals. I liken the approach to my artistic
in design and promoting a sustainable approach to
practice in some ways - where I place importance on
fashion. And in Laura’s words, the onus is not just on
the process and the interconnections between items (or
the designers, but on all of us too: “Individually, in our
between objects in art installation work) to create the
everyday choices, we have the power to make important
final piece, or in this case, the collection.
steps towards changing our world for the better – and it
can start with what we put on our body each day!”
As a multidisciplinary artist, she is interested in
28
collaboration, especially through participatory art
To find out more about the pouches and to order one of your
projects and the co-creation of works. This is also part of
own, visit www.itsfold.com.
I S S U E 67
MONEY
Flexible Serviced Workspace to focus, collaborate and be creative
Business Office Services International – Malta provides fully serviced private workspace of various sizes accommodating single or multiple workstations in Malta’s Central Business District. For further enquiries, please send an email to amanda.balzan@boservices.com.mt or call on +356 9900 4016 Vision Exchange Building, Triq it-Territorjals, Zone 1, Central Business District, Birkirkara, CBD 1070, Malta
www.bos-international.com
Furnished and Scalable offices, according to your business requirements.
17
Modern meeting rooms to facilitate your physical or online meetings, bookable via the BOSI app. A welcome centre manned by a reception team. Internet provided throughout the Business Centre. Business and Registered address. Onsite parking.
PROMO
CREATING SUSTAINABLE GROWTH & VALUE While CEOs remain overwhelmingly male, Lea Hogg examines how Deborah Schembri joined an elite cadre of female leaders when she was appointed CEO of STM Malta Pension Services Limited, a retirement scheme administrator firm administering €1.8 billion in assets, shattering the ‘glass ceiling’.
Recognition for her achievements
value appreciation than male
includes the Businesswoman of
peers and deliver excess risk-
the Year Award recognising her
adjusted returns for their firms.
pivotal role in structuring and growing STM Malta into a major
While global financial institutions
global pension provider. Other
have a poor record of appointing
accolades include Most Innovative
women to top posts, with only six
Entrepreneur by Wealth & Finance
female CEOs in
and Corporate Vision’s Excellence
in the U.S., U.K. and Europe,
Awards for the Most Influential
change is evident. For example,
Businesswoman in Finance.
Christine Lagarde is the first
such companies
female President of the European In 2015 the New York Times wrote,
Central Bank, Jane Fraser was
“fewer large companies were run
appointed CEO of Citigroup in
by women than by men named
, the first woman to head
John”. Since then, the needle
a Wall Street bank, and in
has moved marginally, and now
Alison Rose took over NatWest
,
23% of Global 500 companies are
Group, the first woman to lead one
headed by women. But women
of Britain’s biggest lenders.
make up only one-third of all FTSE
30
100 board positions and just 15%
Over two decades, Deborah
of finance directors. This appears
acquired an unparalleled
counterintuitive as an S&P study
armoury of readily transferable
revealed that most firms with
hard and soft skills performing
female CEOs saw a 20% increase
leadership roles in insurance
in stock price while female CFOs
and pensions, gaming, the care
increased profits by % in
industry, construction and
months’ post-appointment.
property development, the
Moreover, female CEOs drive more
energy sector and hospitality and
I S S U E 67
MONEY
PROMO
travel. She has leveraged these
a critical component of the
common. Optimism is vital, and
is understanding, compassionate
skills to transform businesses,
business. Schembri acknowledges
to achieve goals, CEOs need to
and reliable. Ultimately, she says
attributing her success to
that COVID-
have a clear and ambitious vision
that a business leader must
vision, communication, integrity
leaders adopt new ways of
that guarantees a successful
always act in the company’s
and curiosity. “I have always
working by embracing digitisation
business. Great CEOs can inspire
best interest, the public, and
concentrated on the company’s
and reorganising supply chains.
loyalty in their employees, which
employees.
has made business
has a positive effect on staff
strategy and objectives, while ensuring that the finance function
As we enter the phase of post-
commitment and retention,
Ongoing education is necessary to
facilitates their realisation,” she
pandemic, she believes business
which will increase sales and
stay at the helm of any business,
says.
leaders must do more than
customer satisfaction. When their
and Deborah devotes a few hours
fine-tuning. They need to step
management inspires staff, they
a day to private study. However,
back and consider a broader
become more creative, motivated
she says that another important
She believes that one of the most difficult challenges that business
aspect is to identify each
leaders face is building solid
employee’s strengths so that they
teams. She mirrors the advice
can contribute to the business’s
of Steve Jobs, who said that “it doesn’t make sense to hire smart people and tell them what to do” and that it is best to “hire smart people so they can tell us what to do.” Interestingly S&P identified that companies with female leaders tend to be more diverse, and statistics prove that leaders with diverse and transferable skills create higher-performing teams. Deborah cites that it is a prerequisite for business leaders to keep up with the latest developments in technology. For example, a McKinsey survey finds that companies have accelerated
An S&P study revealed that most firms with female CEOs saw a 20% increase in stock price while female CFOs increased profits by 6% in 24 months’ postappointment.
growth based on their skill set and experience. Deborah has managed to catapult STM Pensions to become the leader in Malta’s pensions sector. As the maximum state pension in Malta is just under €17,000, Deborah stresses that it is now essential to invest in a private pension to be able to live comfortably during retirement. STM’s innovative pension schemes have helped people meet retirement income goals. ‘”Our schemes will play an ever-greater role in maintaining the future adequacy of pensions.” she says. STM Malta has been instrumental
the digitisation of customer and
in setting up a committee
supply-chain interactions and internal operations by 3 to 4
perspective to enable them to
and results-orientated. They,
within the Malta Chamber of
years. And the share of digital
rethink how they are running their
therefore, tend to work harder,
Commerce to address the lack of
or digitally enabled products
operation, and even to an extent,
enabling them to reach their goals
sustainability of the state pension.
accelerated by a staggering seven
why they exist. COVID-
with the likelihood that they will
This will empower employers and
years.
businesses to identify several
also exceed their targets.
employees to make informed
has led
decisions to invest in private and
trends that will play a substantial Deborah adds that business
role in re-shaping the future’s
On meeting Deborah, one can
acumen is essential, and in the
global economy.
see that she possesses excellent
workplace pension schemes.
self-confidence, and this is vital
Deborah’s vision and leadership
new strategies and practices
Deborah Schembri believes
to make the right decision for her
in the sector have placed Malta
need to be implemented using
that there are qualities and
organisation with clear thought
as a leading base for cross border
cutting-edge technology as
skills that the best CEOs have in
and foresight. With her team, she
pension plans.
current economic environment,
Deborah is a CPA, holds an MBA from Henley, an honour’s degree in accountancy, an advanced diploma in Retirement Provision, a diploma in tax, and is a Fellow of the Institute of Accountants and the Malta Institute of Taxation. She is the chairperson of the Malta Association of Retirement Scheme Administrators and sits on various committees within the Malta Chamber of Commerce and the Institute of Financial Services Practitioners.
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
31
BOOKS
REBEL with
A CAUSE Former National Book Council chairman, Mark Camilleri, speaks with Giselle Borg Olivier about his soon-to-be-released exposé on the Labour Party and the secrets behind this political powerhouse.
32
I S S U E 67
MONEY
BOOKS
A couple of weeks ago, you were asked to hand over the
the new administration entered office. I knew that my fate
keys after your contract as chairman of the National
was sealed, and I stayed in my position until the very end
Book Council expired. How did that make you feel?
only because my stakeholders – publishers and authors - supported me to a great extent. The public may not
It was very emotional for me because I built the entity as
be aware of the intricacies of what happens behind the
it is known today. Although the entity was in existence, it
scenes of our industry, but that’s the real story. Rather
was more of an amateurish club rather than a professional
than say, “to hell with everything”, I worked even harder
organisation embedded in the industry. It had only one
to ensure that I exploited the amount of time I had left
employee and virtually no budget.
to the best of my ability to initiate and execute as many projects as I could until I had to go. I announced my book
I changed the entity by introducing professional principles,
because this is my current source of income. I will be self-
such as commercial principles. We grew gradually until we
publishing this book, and if it proves to be successful, I
became a very efficient entity in the book industry, both
will consider opening a publishing house.
regulatory and commercial. Some people believe you’re writing this book out of Every year we hit record highs in terms of sales at the
spite because your contract wasn’t renewed. Is this
Malta Book Fair. Through our regulatory frameworks, we
the case?
introduced new sources of revenue to the industry, such as public lending rights, the enforcement of licenses and
I would be lying if I said that I didn’t have emotions behind
more. As a result, during my tenure, book sales increased,
everything that happened, but let me put things in
the number of books published increased, new authors
perspective because the reality is more complex. I was
found a new space and new support, and publishers had a
going to announce this in my book, but I will announce it
lifeline during periods of severe difficulty.
here since you asked me this question.
One of my proudest achievements at the Book Council was
In
to export Maltese literature through the selling of rights
ambassador because the government back then was in
and translations worldwide. My biggest coup was when I
real trouble – this was after the revelations of 17 Black.
sold Walid Nabhan to Peter Owen, the publishers of Herman
The intention behind this offer was to remove me from
Hesse. Walid’s book is coming out in London in October. I
the political scene, as has been done with many other
devoted a lot of my energy and time, and I sacrificed a lot of
left wing-leaning Labourites – like when Mary Louise
sleepless nights, so it makes me emotional to leave all that
Coleiro Preca was made President, George Vella was also
and a bit fearful about my legacy because you never know
made President, Helena Dalli is European Commissioner
whether your legacy will be preserved or not.
for Equality, and Leo Brincat is in the European Court of
I was offered the possibility to become an
Auditors. These kinds of plum jobs were always available This happened after you had announced that you were
for people like me who were not entirely in agreement
going to write a tell-all book about the goings-on within
with the political line that Joseph Muscat was taking.
the Labour Party. Do you think that you self-sabotaged
And, for obvious reasons, Joseph Muscat preferred to
your role?
get rid of us. I refused the option, and I’m paying the consequences.
No, to be honest, I’ve known about the government’s intention to remove me from the Book Council ever since
I don’t think that ambassadorial posts should be given that way, but they do – that’s why Emmanuel Mallia was made an ambassador; it’s not because he’s competent in diplomacy, but because they want to get rid of him. Unfortunately, however, they want to get rid of Emmanuel Mallia for terrible reasons, which I will mention in my book. I could never take a plum job, but the government wouldn’t have offered me a position of executive authority because they didn’t want me to have any power. So, they tried to give me a placement that would zip me up and make me happy, but I’m not just satisfied with money. I’m not the kind of person who would do anything for money. I like to make my money honestly, and I’ve always done so. I’m a historian and a writer, so my way of making money is by writing. People want to know the truth, so why not »
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
33
BOOKS
give it to them? They’re going to have it now; they’re going to have my truth. Why is now a good time to write and publish this book? I’m no longer part of the system; I could never have written this book as a government executive. One must make choices in life – you either work as part of the system or you’re going to work outside of it, and both are good options if they’re done well. I’ve been a government executive for eight years now, so it’s good to be on the other side and be able to speak more freely, and I’m enjoying it right now. Had you maintained your role as chairman of the
few years ago, but I will be telling the stories that need to
National Council, would you have been okay with
be said because if they’re not told, we will lose a part of
remaining within the system knowing the secrets that
our history. So, I’m delighted to contribute to the fight for
you know?
justice. Still, I’m also interested in the historical aspect of these stories to make sure that our history is written
That’s a difficult question. Many people have big
correctly. Now that I can do so, I will write it in the most
expectations of me; they think I can execute a revolution
uncensorable way possible.
single-handedly and turn the tables by myself. On the other hand, many more people also know many things and have
The Maltese people have witnessed several episodes
never spoken out. Many people are privy to many secrets
that could be classified as criminal and arrest-worthy,
and can probably help the police prosecute people like
yet nothing has happened in that regard. Do you think
Joseph Muscat.
that your book will tip the scales and help for action to be taken?
If one works within the system and makes compromises, it depends on the relative context. In my context, I’m
I hope so. One of the significant problems that we fail to
not a very important person in the bureaucracy. I was an
address is that we have a serious structural problem. Our
important person to the book industry, and for me, that was
Attorney General is not only not incentivised to act but was
more important than being a political militant. I know many
part of the scheme (along with her ex-boss Peter Grech) to
secrets because I was a party delegate and a government
cover up for them, being part and parcel of a system that
executive. Still, most of the things that I know have nothing
directly abetted large scale corruption. I believe that the
to do with my previous positions, but simply because I have
current Attorney General and Peter Grech should both be
many friends and contacts.
investigated.
These are not easy decisions to take because when you
For example, we know that they intentionally made sure
reveal certain things, you forfeit other opportunities. I took
that Brian Tonna was not investigated, that Nexia BT wasn’t
this step because I couldn’t live with my conscience. So, it
searched and that they went out of their way to actually
wasn’t a question of ‘if?’ but ‘when?’. If I hadn’t done this
advise that they aren’t searched. This news has already
now, I would have done this later and probably by then,
emerged, and we have the evidence.
many of the things would have already come out, so I’m just the first person to reveal this information.
My book will explain how certain civil servants and bureaucrats played an essential role in ensuring this
You claim that your book will expose secrets and
corruption goes unpunished. I will also explain how Victoria
underhand operations in the Labour party. Is the
Buttigieg became Attorney General and how Edward
content, therefore, incriminating? Will names be
Zammit Lewis became Justice Minister.
mentioned that could lead to arrests? Nonetheless, many good people in the civil service have The direct answer to this question is: yes. However, it
resisted the generosity of Joseph Muscat, and I will
depends on the police because what I will be mentioning,
be doing justice to them as they found themselves in
ironically, is already known by several official members in
challenging situations.
the police force… it may just not be known to the public.
34
So, I will be helping the police by giving them a clearer
I will also be explaining that when Robert Abela called
picture of how things happened. Some situations may
for continuity, he wasn’t just pandering to the Labour
be challenging to investigate because they happened a
hardcore; he really meant continuity. He believes in
I S S U E 67
MONEY
BOOKS
continuity – in terms of their rent-seeking regime, in
powerful organisation like the Church. You may select the
terms of how they do politics, in terms of how they look at
Church and the teachings of Christ, but you think that the
corruption.
Pope is corrupt, so what do you do in that case? Do you renounce Christianity, or do you renounce the Pope? But if
They changed their version when the inquiry on Daphne’s
you reject the Pope, then the Church will ostracise you – so
murder came out, saying, “This is a new state”, but it’s all
it’s a very complex situation.
contradictory and confusing. They are playing partisan politics in a very shallow manner while missing the wood
This is what many critics miss when they criticise us
for the trees. People are not stupid; they know that it’s
for supporting Muscat in 2017. I’ll be writing about this
bizarre that we have politicians and high-profile figures
at length and explaining what we were doing within the
who haven’t been taken to court yet. The illegalities are so
Labour Party… what happened, how we were relating to
explicit, yet everyone is still out there because everything
Muscat, how we were speaking to him, what the conditions
was covered up again.
were… things are not so simple. There is a lot of omertà.
You say that people aren’t stupid, but it seems that
You’ve said that you want to see the PL become a ‘clean
people don’t care either. Or perhaps the people who
party’ – what will it take for that to happen?
care about whether corruption is investigated, as to whether people are arrested, seem to be in the
It will take a multi-generational change of people where
minority… most people appear to be very apathetic.
new generations enter politics with very different views than those of their political leaders. I think this is already
Malta, despite being a very small society, is a very complex
happening in fundamental terms; many young people have
one. In my book, I’ll be explaining how the Labour Party
a critical outlook.
became what it is today – it’s not like a political party any longer; it’s like the Catholic Church in the
s.
For example, civil society protests in my day used to be attended by the same number of people, nowadays, there are young women from all political parties who are
People want to know the truth, so why not give it to them? They’re going to have it now: they’re going to have my truth.
pro-choice and who are friends, and they are more in agreement with each other than they are with their peers in their parties. I see many structural changes where new generations will completely change the political landscape; however, this young generation must face the current brick wall of rentseekers and petty oligarchs. This fight will probably evolve cross-party; however, I’m optimistic in the long term, but in the short term, I think it will worsen before it gets better. The conflict right now is not between Labour and PN; the battle is against the rent-seekers and against those who are taking advantage of politics to exploit public resources,
The Labour Party is not just a party that you vote for in the
etc. And, unfortunately, there’s still impunity, and it’s
elections; it’s a social network that addresses the financial
even done brazenly, such as with the yacht marina they’re
and social problems of the people both on a micro-level and
proposing in Marsascala – it’s brazen moral corruption.
on a macro-level. The whole organisation works as a clerical
It’s literally a continuity of Joseph Muscat’s rent-seeking
institution; you have the Pope equal to the Prime Minister,
regime.
and everything is done under his guidance and direction.
MONEY
There is no dissent, obviously; there’s no room for debate
For the young people who are currently contesting
or critical thinking. Whatever the Prime Minister says is
under the PL label… doesn’t it prove that they endorse
dogma, and people believe it.
the current government and its way of doing things?
This is how we should see the problem, and this is why the
No, not necessarily. Many good people in Labour have
Nationalist Party fails, and Labour keeps winning. This is
excellent intentions and want to contribute positively.
because the PN fails to understand how society works, and
I’m afraid I must disagree with their choice of supporting
Maltese society is complex. For example, I was a Labour
Labour right now, but I don’t think they are inherently our
Party delegate, and many people within the Labour Party
enemies. I believe that our enemies are the people in power
know that Joseph Muscat is corrupt and they don’t like
who persist in the continuity of the rent-seeking regime
it. Still, it’s the same situation as when you belong to a
and do the same things as before, like the yacht marina. »
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
35
BOOKS
For example, I believe that having Chris Fearne as Minister
and I’m trying to do that in the best way possible through
of Health is an excellent thing as there would have been
my abilities, interests, and doing something ethical.
more deaths due to the pandemic. The Prime Minister had a more tolerant attitude at the beginning of the pandemic
I had other opportunities like becoming an ambassador, and
in terms of opening up. It was only thanks to Chris Fearne
I decided to refuse these and instead do what I like doing
that the government was seriously engaged in minimising
best. I’m enjoying working on this book with the designers,
deaths and cases.
the editors and proofreaders, and doing something that I think is a good thing because my book will contribute to the
This is always a grey issue; it’s not black and white. The
fight for justice. For now, that’s what counts.
Labour Party is currently captured by the wrong people Some people claim that you’re a traitor to the Party for writing this book. What do you say to them?
Will names be mentioned that could lead to arrests? The direct answer to this question is: yes.
I would say that by no means am I a traitor. On the contrary, I love the Labour Party – the traitors are those who are using the Labour Party for their interests and personal gain, and there are many of them. The traitors of the Labour Party are the ones who have hijacked the Party to solicit deals from Yorgen Fenech. All those who have become government executives and Labour Party politicians for their gain are the biggest traitors. They have pushed us to the precipice, to the extent that Malta has been greylisted, and we face severe economic challenges. They are the ones who should meet the public and pay back all their dues to society.
and people who aren’t even Labourites! For me, Robert Abela is not a Labourite. This person was never involved in party affairs and party militancy; this is just someone who
I have never taken a single thing from the Labour Party. On
became Prime Minister because Joseph Muscat supported
the contrary, I have contributed a lot of my time and energy
him.
to the LP. I restored their library and archives, and I was secretary to the Isla Committee. I’ve done a lot of work.
I have been involved in political militancy and with the
Robert Abela hasn’t done even 1% of the voluntary work I’ve
Labour Party for many years, and I’ve never seen Robert
done for the Party, and these people have the gall to call me
Abela anywhere.
a traitor? Well, I’ll tell them to f*ck off!
That doesn’t make the Labour Party a corrupt organisation;
Do you fear for your safety once the book comes out?
again, it’s like the Church. The Church is massive; just
We all know what happened to Daphne Caruana Galizia.
because you have a bad Pope doesn’t mean ‘let’s burn down
Do safety and security concerns cross your mind?
the Church’. I don’t want to burn down the Labour Party; I love the Labour Party! I’m fighting against the Labour Party
No, because I live in a hidden and secure location, and as
because I want to see it do better.
long as I keep myself safe, nothing will happen, so I do not fear for my security.
I’m not campaigning for the Nationalist Party, but I’m not going to vote Labour. Personally, and politically, my
Does that mean that you will never return to the local
perspective is to support third-party candidates, but that
political scene?
doesn’t mean that I want to burn down the Labour Party
and extinguish it from existence.
I am not a politician, so it has never been my interest to get into local politics.
My strategy right now is to exert maximum pressure and maximum militancy to see a radical change in politics,
… perhaps to help with the regeneration of the
mainly to see the Labour Party rejuvenate itself. It’s going
Labour Party?
to be a long process; it’s not something that will happen overnight.
I would be happy to do so, but I will do so at a distance for now.
We know the next election is imminent. Do you think
36
that your book will influence the public’s vote?
The book will be released in October 2021. Mark Camilleri
I want to think that I have that power and influence, but I
is promising an innovative launch to the book but isn’t
don’t know. So my intention right now is to make a living,
spilling any secrets yet!
I S S U E 67
MONEY
THE ART OF QUITTING
Work sucks, we know “Quitting felt like breaking through the surface of the water, like breathing again.”
Work is not supposed to suck. Don’t settle for less.
SOFT POWER
MALTA’S SOFT POWER POTENTIALS The Cultural Paradigm Ray de Bono speaks to the former editor of the leading Maltese language Sunday newspaper, It-Torca, branding expert, historian and renowned author Aleks Farrugia. He also met with firebrand Jon Mallia, a talk show host and thinker who brings an original mix of theatre, social commentary and public debate in a language that is fresh, sometimes shocking, but always to the point. The questions circle around the need to improve our cultural biosphere as part of Malta’s overall Soft Power credentials.
In my previous articles on Malta’s Soft Power credentials, we started by providing an overview of the many attributes that define a nation’s Soft Power: from its standard of living, education standards, literacy levels, the ease of doing business here, the international perception of our nation’s identity and trust in its institutions to the way our nation’s image appeared in the eyes of the world. I interviewed bankers, business leaders, start-up gurus and entrepreneurs. We debated the financial and economic dimensions affecting Malta’s Soft Power potential. Now it’s time to speak to equally important influencers, artists, authors and thinkers. Finally, we met the people whose words – both written or spoken – project our lives. As with many other subjects in Malta, there are two or more ‘schools of thought’, and what one side sees as white, the other side may often see as grey, if not pitch black. Our guests opened to MONEY and revealed all about their views of Malta’s culture and the arts, with a dose of politics thrown in (for a change). So, prepare yourselves to be immersed in Aleks Farrugia and Jon Mallia’s profound observations. Here we go.
38
I S S U E 67
MONEY
SOFT POWER
Culture and the arts are intrinsically
I’ll focus on that which I feel has provided the
at you is the stern, the unwavering gaze of
central in a nation’s identity and image.
most significant impact in this regard: the
unlimited human artistic potential - or every
So how do you see culture and the arts
internet.
shade of porn - depends on where you decide
developing in Malta?
to explore.
Its advent has heralded democratic platforms
AF - Good things are happening in the arts and
where artists can share their work without
I don’t think we’re anywhere in the nation’s
culture of the Maltese Islands. I see exciting
traditional editorial impositions. This has
cultural and artistic development to celebrate
artists coming up, especially in the visual arts
proven fertile ground for many projects that
yet. Nonetheless, I do see a landscape replete
and some new voices in literature. However, it
would have otherwise died on conception. I
with creative risk-takers willing to take a spill.
doesn’t look promising in the music scene; we
cannot see TVM ever greenlighting Kaxxaturi,
Brikkuni, Alex Vella Gera, Brodu, Take 2, Lapes -
are still losing the best elements who prefer to
for instance. And while I wouldn’t call the
are the few that come to mind in the brief time
take their chances abroad. In the theatre, it’s
podcast art, it can undoubtedly be considered
I must write back to you. These guys put it all
I think that the most worrying tribalism is not the partisan political ones; classism and racism are the worst because they are silent yet endemic; they exist even within the political parties. — Aleks Farrugia a long way uphill. Whatever achievements are
a cultural asset - one that would not have
on the line every time. Do they produce things I
being made in these areas are primarily due to
found a welcome home in traditional media.
don’t like? Many times. But it would be naive to
individual perseverance and entrepreneurship.
believe that a high failure rate is not implied in
But, unfortunately, structurally, the artist is
The internet also affords the fledgling artist
such risky artistic behaviour.
still pretty much isolated.
a kit of entrepreneurial tools to promote
their work, sell concert tickets, raise funds
But I suppose what matters is that embedded
The institutional backup is still very thin.
and so on. This, again, adds another level
in their successes and their failures are the
And whatever assistance there is must be
of independence. And independence is
seedlings for Malta’s still nascent cultural
continuously shared with the dilettantes, who,
crucial insofar as the artist wishes to
future.
because of their populist reach, have more
pursue an artistic timbre that is true to her
political weight; unfortunately, institutions
disposition. Now that might prove to be utterly
Many commentators complain of tribalism
rarely distinguish between professional artists
unappreciated in the marketplace of ideas;
affecting Malta’s political landscape. Do you
and these dilettantes, and when they do, they
it can be considered seminal or anywhere in
agree with the perspective?
tend to favour the latter. Moreover, successive
between. Nonetheless, the cultural landscape
Maltese governments have failed to see that
itself stands to benefit, which doesn’t find
AF - We tend to emphasise the role of political
culture-oriented industries create well-paid,
itself recycling the same bland, inoffensive set
tribalism in Malta, but then see what’s
sustainable, and green jobs like banking,
of products for yet another inconsequential
happening in the United States or closer to
gaming or IT.
decade.
home, what’s happening in post-Brexit Britain,
or Poland’s situation. True, we suffer from a
Moreover, culture-oriented business tends
Plus, the internet is an endless universe
divided society inherited from colonialism’s
to beautify and enhance their space and
of creative output. Some might choose to
‘divide and rule’ policy. All ex-colonial countries
directly and indirectly create well-being
emulate what a foreign counterpart creates,
were left with that virus running through
adjoining communities. But, here, culture is
adding a local slant to give it an original guise.
their veins. But I think that the most worrying
still an afterthought, still viewed as something
Others might internalise a more profound, far
tribalism is not the partisan political ones;
peripheral rather than essential to a growing
more important principle: that the creative
classism and racism are the worst because
economy. We urgently need a change in
endeavour exists in an almost infinite
they are silent yet endemic; they exist even
thinking.
landscape and that artistic courage and
within the political parties. And they determine
discipline can have the practitioners emerge
those who are in and those who are shut out.
JM - Development is affected by numerous
out of their exploration with the treasure one
factors: state policy, history, Malta’s ascension
never knew existed. If you look at the internet
JM - What we are suffering stems from a
into the EU... but for the sake of this interview,
long enough, what you will find staring back
penchant for fanaticism borne of a nation in »
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
SOFT POWER
waiting. First, we were the subjugated and
Capitalism is not nice. It is ferocious, predatory
when some of what has wedged itself into his
the colonised. Then we were unquestioning
by its very nature. And to answer your
budding unconscious mind will surface at a
illiterate Catholics, and now we are Laburisti
question – having to speak even from my
time of need.
or Nazzjonalisti - this attitude blocks us en
recent experience with the European Prize for
route towards discovering what it means to be
Literature – no, nobody will look at us better
Furthermore, I know that people who belong
Maltese.
because of our art or culture, institutionally
to one camp or another are undergoing an
speaking. So, I would rather talk of people,
existential crisis instigated by specific public
We have independence now, but clearly, we do
and there, yes, our art and culture are an
conversations. I am sure that for some, this
not understand how it works. We are a nation
opportunity to expand our minds, create
will herald an eventual metamorphosis. It will
lost in its land. But out of the mire emerge a
human connections, and better understand
take a lot of guts. However, getting caught out
confident, loud few that assure us that waving
our place in the world.
on the wrong side of history is not a tragedy
party flags, fawning over a pathetic pantheon
anyone can take lightly.
of imposter gods and yelling banal slogans can
Take the recent successes we had with local
lend us a little self-worth, and here we are - a
film productions abroad, the collaboration
Every nation has figures that sum up what’s
nation split at the seams. And while I am not
with literary figures from around Europe and
best about its character. An icon need not
myself Catholic, I am agnostic; I believe that
the Mediterranean. They widen our human
be the most famous. This person must
much of the Christian value structure can be
and artistic horizons. But that won’t move
represent something more profound about
called upon to give us a sense of self-worth
governments or institutions a mere inch from
a nation’s spirit. One doesn’t have to be
through virtue that perhaps is even more
their politics and their machinations.
heralded by everyone to be an icon. Some
helpful than a national identity. But, of course,
are controversial and have run-ins with the
this is invariably difficult, as Christian culture
JM - It’s clear that no one is effective in
state; others can be academics, artists or
demands that we do what is right over what is
stirring this ship in any direction other than
civil servants. If I had to ask you to name
immediately expedient.
a continued insistence by the establishment
three Maltese icons – who would your
that nothing is as gravely wrong as the
heroes be?
Malta’s image has been tarnished locally
naysayers make it out to be. Leafing through
and overseas, and despite the island’s many
the dailies is like being subjected to watching
AF - I have had heroes in the past, but in the
blessings, the country is going through a
the Monty Python Dark Knight sketch on
end, to some measure, they have all let me down. People are complex, contradictory. They are rarely, if ever, heroic in themselves.
The first requisite for heroism is doing what is congruent with one’s value structure rather than what one is coerced into doing by force of any kind or expediency. — Jon Mallia
Instead, they are made heroes, and usually, during the process, they are dehumanised. So, I will give you three people I find inspiring – for some reason, and they are all dead, perhaps that says something too: Manwel Dimech for his vision for Malta and his dream of freedom; Dun Ġorġ Preca, for the humility to reach out to all regarding of their social class; and Ġwann Mamo, for writing the book I always wanted to write. JM - For me, the first requisite for heroism is doing what is congruent with one’s value structure rather than what one is coerced
‘grey patch’ (...) So how do you see culture
repeat, where the crusader insists his fighting
into doing by force of any kind or expediency.
and the arts as conducive to a positive
qualities remain unhindered even when all his
The second is to define a value structure for
change in this regard?
limbs have become dismembered.
oneself that provides fertile ground for one’s
talents and, when possible, those of others
AF - I think most of the ‘international’ tarnish
I think the fruits of what certain artistic
to grow. The third is to figure out, and therein
you are referring to – without diminishing all
exponents are purveying presently is yet to
act out, modes of being in the world that
that is wrong and needs to be changed – is
be yielded. Hasn’t it happened to you before?
cause as little useless suffering to oneself, the
part of an ongoing strategy to force us into
To be engaged in what appears to be an
approximate community and the community
submitting to a standard European taxation
otherwise dull and useless conversation in the
at large. Finally, the fourth is to understand
regime. It’s the usual game of ‘how great
present - only to realise its worth at a time of
that morality is not a shield behind which
capitalism is if it is played according to my
crisis in the future? Most of the philosophical
one occults one’s cowardice and weakness.
rules’ from our partner states, and we must
conversations I have with my unusually
It’s instead a conscious choice a potentially
admit that with Brexit, we are in a considerably
intrigued
dangerous person makes when choosing
weaker place to deal with this pressure.
However, I know that there will come a time
40
-year-old son fly over his head.
I S S U E 67
nobility.
MONEY
SOFT POWER
Within this context, I choose to spend the
a hero; I had no choice other than to share the
fend on their own, and the EU has so far failed
absolute majority of my waking time with
rest of my life with one. Both these women’s
to provide any tangible solidarity or concrete
people I deem to be seeking heroism for
existences remain a tribute to some of the
support to these countries.
themselves. Not necessarily full-fledged
values I hold dearest to my heart: strength,
heroes yet - however, those closest to me are
compassion, equanimity under duress.
JM - Malta has never had a strategic program of integration. Migrants are either
certainly individuals that voluntarily subject themselves to the burdensome pressure it
Some argue that we need to look less
an unwarranted burden or a cheap human
takes to forge heroes.
‘greedy’ as a nation. But, with so many
resource, depending on who you talk to. There
refugees and people escaping war reaching
are no real incentives for migrants to integrate
I will put one name out there - Andrew Falzon,
our shores each year, isn’t it time to think of
into Maltese society, learn the language, and
aka The Man That Gave Parkinson’s The Finger.
how to turn the migration challenge into a
understand the social contract.
The capitalisation of his nickname is a tribute
win-win opportunity? This noble endeavour,
to his boldness. A star athlete that contracted
if handled well, can go a long way to help
What would happen to the cheap person-
Parkinson’s at the age of 22, Andrew has
improve Malta’s international reputation.
hours if suddenly these people became
continued to pursue spiritual, intellectual and
Why not reclaim our age-old image as the
educated and emancipated in huge swaths?
even physical paths through which to evolve
‘Nurse of the Mediterranean’? Do you see
I’m sure migrants have the potential to drive
20 years on. In many senses, Andrew has not
Malta ever becoming a humanitarian haven?
a considerable surge in Maltese talent, but this doesn’t suit the current need for willing
survived the neurodegenerative disease; he has transcended it. As one would expect,
AF - I think of migration as a positive
and able bodies to do arduous menial work
Andrew is forced to endure endless days
opportunity. We are a nation built on migration;
for next to nothing. So, we are left with
of severe anguish to which he sometimes
all the Maltese people have come from
ghettos, burgeoning with human beings that
succumbs. It isn’t that Andrew doesn’t at
somewhere else. And that is what made our
consider themselves either unwanted or ripe
times bend when gripped by the cruel vice of
culture: we built our houses like the Arabs,
for abuse. Of course, this leads to all sorts of
persistent pain; it’s his endless struggle to
got most of our dishes from Sicily or Greece,
psychological problems ranging from drug
straighten himself out that I find worthy of my
our language is Semitic and Latin. What’s
abuse to religious fanaticism.
reverence.
happening today is not a new phenomenon.
In two hundred years, the Maltese will be the
I have long advocated for creating personal
Hours after meeting Andrew the first time,
third or fourth generation of Serbian, Polish,
development programs where individuals
he developed into a spiritual Sherpa that
Somali, or Syrian migrants. Migration is good
are incentivised to further their technical,
introduced me to my potential. I haven’t looked
and healthy, but it also needs to be addressed
linguistic and creative talents and integrate
back since. His mostly silent mentorship has
well; otherwise, it creates social strife and fear
into Maltese society. Instead, what we have
made me a far more useful human being. I’m
in the local population, and we know where
now are what many perceive to be non-
indebted to this guy.
that leads.
humans. Most of us treat them as phantoms
running behind a garbage truck or developing
There is also no doubt that my mother and
Today Europe is facing migrations challenges
scoliosis on a construction site that disappear
wife instantiate not the best national spirit but
both at its southern borders and in the East;
by sundown to the one-bedroom apartments
rather the human spirit. I was born the son of
unfortunately, countries have been left to
they share with ten friends.
Next Steps: My quest to create a national discussion about Malta’s Soft Power has been a fascinating one. I met some very influential business people, professionals, thinkers and artists. I am encouraged when I see how many opportunities we have sitting on our laps as a nation. We’re so blessed, yet no one seems to be taking the lead and orchestrating our resources towards the goal of improving our nation’s identity, especially when it comes to how we’re perceived across the world. Having reflected on these interviews and thought about them so much, what strikes me is that it appears that Malta still has a long way to go when it comes to accepting convergent ideas and dissent from the status quo. A forma mentis still sees the rest of Europe not as a fellow partner but bizarrely as an oppressor. It seems that we still suffer from a colonial hangover; some people are still harbouring a lingering
s notion that we are
the perpetual underdogs. This line of thinking saw its origins in the 70s when the Maltese government, having fallen out with the British over their military presence on the island, often took the side of the Middle East in international fora and even toyed with the idea of ‘Arabisising’ its culture to help it secure finances from the likes of Libya, in particular. That was a very minute term in our millennial history albeit, it sometimes reemerges in intellectual chats. Go figure! My next quest is to tackle Malta’s education system and how this essential pillar of our nation’s well-being will help us succeed in bringing Malta’s Soft Power to its full potential. I am curious about where this journey takes us – so, until next time.
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
41
PROMO
How GO Enables AirX Charter’s Strategic Connectivity AirX Charter is a growing, dynamic company in the air-chartering business, with a diverse fleet operating across the globe. As an international company, AirX offers exposure to various markets and jurisdictions.“We first shifted our mobile services to GO and then, with GO’s support, we started moving our infrastructure to the cloud,” says Marco Andrade, the company’s CTO, who’s on a mission to digitise the company.
I find it amazing how GO is constantly seeking to keep itself close to its business clients, especially when one considers that GO’s services have been and remain critical to daily operations such as ours.
42
I S S U E 67
MONEY
PROMO
Tell us about your company’s relation with GO. Our relationship with GO started back in 2017. We quickly discovered that for GO, it was never a matter of just providing a service but more about building a long-lasting relationship and growing together by being as approachable as possible. This was crucial because for a company like AirX, having our IT platforms, cloud solutions, and cybersecurity infrastructure fully aligned to its business strategy is critical, especially as the company is eyeing further growth.
required constant management.
services we needed. Therefore,
are on call for anything that we
How have these past months
Therefore, as we looked for a
for us, GO has always been the
may require.
been?
connectivity partner, we knew
best and most natural choice for
we wanted an organisation that
our growth prospects.
Did you need specific support
Over the past months, the
could give us dependability
from GO throughout the
company has had to adjust
and reliability. Today, we are
Business clients always expect
pandemic?
to a changing market. In fact,
happy using SIP and many other
a bit more from their providers.
besides affluent single clients,
services on the cloud through
recently, our service has started
GO’s services.
Very true. We were delighted
the pandemic when we suddenly
being sought after by people
when we found out that GO this
needed to shift everything to
chartering private flights to
How, in your opinion, did GO
year had launched a dedicated
the cloud and move our teams
travel as a group – a phenomenon
differentiate itself from other
business support line – 2121 2121,
to work remotely. It was a big
amplified by COVID as people
service providers?
exclusively for business clients.
feat, but we managed to shift
An initiative like this goes a long
over 85% of employees to
want to fly ‘safer’ by avoiding
Yes, GO was beneficial during
crowded airports and planes. The
GO turned out to be the natural
way in bringing GO closer to the
remote working, enabled by GO’s
company is based in Malta, but
choice for AirX because it
business community. I find it
connectivity infrastructure and
we also have offices in the UK.
provided us with the full
amazing how GO is constantly
cloud solutions they use. This
We recently took our first step
spectrum of services we needed
seeking to keep itself close to
enabled us to transition from
into the cargo flight sector after
to expand and build a robust
its business clients, especially
in-office to remote working in a
converting an A340 from our
connectivity system. Every time
when one considers that GO’s
much smoother and seamless
already diverse fleet into a cargo
we found ourselves thinking and
services have been and remain
manner.
aircraft.
planning the implementation of
critical to daily operations such
future projects to support our
as ours. I also add that support
What’s in store for AirX’s
How does GO service AirX?
digitalisation, we would find out
is always available at the tap of a
relationship with GO in the
that GO was already offering the
button – the account executives
near future?
GO services AirX with broadband connections, mobile phones and
To date, we are delighted that GO
mobile data connections, and a
has provided us with excellent
SIP trunk with 3CX on the cloud
service and that our team was
to enable efficient connectivity
always able to remain on top
between the company’s office at
of things. Of course, having
the airport and its main offices in
everything on the cloud makes
SmartCity. Ours is a very mobile
it easier for us to manage
team, travelling frequently and
things, including the remote
always on the go. This is why they
management of devices. We are
needed connectivity solutions
now looking forward to future
on the cloud without being
collaboration with GO, especially
dependent on a system that
in GO’s 5G service proposition.
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
43
THE DEFINITIVE BOATS AND YACHTING MAGAZINE
ROLEX MIDDLE SEA RACE SPECIAL
HAND DELIVERED DIRECT TO YOUR BOAT Informative and exclusive content, high profile interviews, sailing destinations and lifestyle. Available at all marinas, affiliated businesses, Embassies, 5-star boutique/hotels and sailing clubs. Read on bemags.com
Follow us on
PROMO
MONEY MADE EASY FOR EVERYONE
wamo contactless is a little app
or even a business premises.
Easy just got easier
Free and fast
that’s a big deal - on a mission to
POS devices are convenient,
There are so many ways wamo
The wamo app is free to download,
make everything to do with money
of course, but they are also an
can add flow to a business. In
and signing up takes under 10
accessible and easy for everyone.
initial and ongoing cost - in fees
restaurants and cafes, customers
minutes. All that’s needed to
wamo’s QR code technology
- that some businesses don’t
can scan and pay directly from
register is a selfie and an ID
means that businesses - great
want to have. As for opening
their table; at market stalls and
document. Customers can pay
news for micro and small
a bank account, that can be a
bazaars, customers can scan
using Apple Pay or Revolut, and
businesses - can be up, running
notoriously laborious process in
a sticker to pay and go without
business-to-business payments
and taking payments in minutes,
Malta. So, bypassing these more
having to scrabble for change
between wamo merchants are
at no cost. To take payments with
traditional requirements means
or cards or remember PINs.
free so that suppliers can be paid
wamo, all that’s needed is a digital
less hassle, faster growth and
Customers can scan and pay
instantly and directly at no cost.
wamo QR code (on the wamo
less expense from the outset.
as they sit, lie, or stroll around
So, what are you waiting for? Get
at hairdressers, beauty salons,
wamo and get going today.
app) or a bespoke QR code sticker placed anywhere. Customers can
Already have a POS system?
boutique hotels and shops! The
use their smartphone cameras to
No problem
possibilities are endless.
scan either the digital or stickered
Businesses that already have
QR code to pay. Payments
a POS system in place can
wamo in action
arrive in the businesses’ wamo
benefit from using wamo too.
Every payment arrives instantly
contactless account instantly,
In this case, wamo integrates
and with a notification from every
and every payment made or taken
with the system and works as a
QR code source (a business may
is viewable in the app dashboard.
dashboard where all payments
have multiple stickers in many
It’s that simple.
made and taken appear instantly
places) and any other source
- whether from a POS device, a
integrated with wamo. There’s
None of the usual obstacles
digital QR code, sticker, or bank
no ‘pending payments’ and no
need to apply
transfer. It’s all about giving
wait for processing of any kind,
Now an individual or team with
customers more ways to pay,
which means a business owner
a good idea can start business
making transactions smoother,
can know exactly how much
immediately, without needing
faster and more convenient for
money they have in real-time, at
a POS device, a bank account,
everybody.
any time.
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
www.wamo.io / scan.pay.wamo
45
C R E AT I V E E C O N O M Y
It’s all ORANGE Over the past few years, the cultural sector was living through a revival phase. Buoyed by the increased tourism flows, performances, cultural events, and music shows and events became a tourism niche. Then the pandemic hit, and the tourism sector and cultural sector came crashing to a grinding halt. JP Fabri explains.
Along with the tourism sector, the cultural and creative sectors are
most fun, often associated with culture and creativity. The creative
most affected by the current global crisis. The venue-based sectors,
economy is a long evolving concept that builds on the interplay between
including museums, performing arts, and others, are the hardest hit
human creativity and ideas and intellectual property, knowledge,
by social distancing measures. The abrupt drop in revenues puts their
and technology. Essentially, it is the knowledge-based economic
financial sustainability at risk and has resulted in reduced wage earnings
activities on which the ‘creative industries are based. The creative
and lay-offs with repercussions along the value chain of their suppliers.
industries, an essential source of both commercial and cultural value,
Cultural and creative sectors are composed mainly of micro-firms,
include advertising, architecture, arts and crafts, design, fashion, film,
non-profit organisations, and creative professionals, often operating on
video, photography, music, performing arts, publishing, research and
the margins of financial sustainability. The reduced subventions from
development, software, computer games, electronic publishing, and TV/
the private sector can prove to be catastrophic for some entities and
radio.
museums unless the Government intervenes. With the formal announcement of the 2021 United Nations Year of The effects of the crisis will affect the production of cultural goods and
Creative Economy for Sustainable Development, the creative economy
services in the months, if not years, to come. Over the medium term,
was finally recognised as a powerful force for good, livelihoods, social
the anticipated lower levels of international tourism, drop in purchasing
cohesion, and economic development through the trade-in creative
power, and reductions of private funding for arts and culture could
goods and services. The announcement also acknowledges the role
magnify this negative trend even further. In the absence of responsive
of creative industries in supporting entrepreneurship, stimulating
public and private support, the possible downsizing of cultural and
innovation, and empowering people, including young people and
creative sectors will harm the broader society, not only in terms of jobs
women, while preserving and promoting cultural heritage and diversity.
and value-added but also on levels of innovation, citizen well-being and The sector is already an economic driver and source of innovation. The
the product offering of the Maltese islands.
cultural and creative sectors can play an essential role in innovation In the future, it will be critical to consider cultural and creative sectors
throughout the economy, especially if economic sectors are clusters
and cultural participation as a crucial economic driver in its own right
and ecosystems rather than silos. Public and private support to these
with linkages to the broader economy. The orange economy, coined
sectors is more effective when considering the strategic inter-
by British writer John Howkins, refers to everything that is developed
relationships across sub-sectors that come together in an ecosystem.
through people’s creativity and inspiration that becomes a good or
For example, the relationship between the creative sectors and the
service. It covers everything from a toy to a play, including the most
educational system will likely be further reinforced by accelerating
scientific aspects of R+D. Why orange? Orange has been historically
digitalisation processes in both spheres. This strengthened relationship
tied to youth and happiness. Many consider it the colour that is the
will probably generate essential knowledge and technology transfers
46
I S S U E 67
MONEY
C R E AT I V E E C O N O M Y
...the possible downsizing of cultural and creative sectors will harm the broader society, not only in terms of jobs and value-added but also on levels of innovation, citizen well-being and the product offering... across the two spheres. The strategic complementarities between the
efforts to expand the nature of cultural experiences, the digital
creative, cultural and educational sectors will be necessary to develop
training of local guides and service providers, and the creation of
new forms of digital edutainment and gamification and digital creation
digital narratives that complement traditional physical experiences.
and curation of content. Moreover, these sectors are a prime field of
With the commencement of events, Malta needs to refind and
development and experimentation of emerging technologies such as
redefine its space within this context. The orange economy needs to
augmented and enriched reality, the Internet of Things and artificial
be a holistic and integral part of our continued recovery process.
intelligence, which can complement other economic sectors, including To shape better policies, national and local governments need more
online gaming and other ICT related sectors.
evidence on the cultural and creative sector’s economic and social As the resumption of travelling and tourism continues, there is an
impact. Despite the increased awareness of culture and creativity
opportunity for new models of more sustainable cultural tourism,
for development, much can still be done to improve and mainstream
which are more niche, resilient, and less potentially more value-
across policy areas. Looking ahead, culture and the broader
adding. Here the business models would focus on longer and repeat
orange economy needs to be part of recovery strategies through
stays rather than on very high volumes of short visits. This new trend
place-based and people-based policies together with the proper
will require additional investments in tourist attractions, including
infrastructural support.
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
47
SEEDING A GREENER WORLD
GREEN BONDS
48
Looking back, we have given minimal weight or ignored how important the global environment is and how it can ultimately affect our wellbeing. Air pollution is undoubtedly one of the many focal points globally, with many projects being funded through favourable schemes by the private sector, while governments themselves are heavily investing in projects linked to achieving the environmental sustainability proposition. Jordan Portelli explains. Nowadays, within the investment world, we
that from the gross energy consumption
have seen an abnormal growth of investment
perspective, Malta’s share in renewable
products that are aligned to ecological,
energy is only just over 8%, when compared
social, and governance (ESG) or have a clear
to the average of 18.8% of other European
strategy to achieve within the said space.
countries. Nonetheless, it seems that now, also in line with our European peers, we have
Domestically we are lagging, with recent
taken necessary steps and have a clear plan
data by the European Commission showing
to reduce emissions, in addition to concrete
I S S U E 67
MONEY
GREEN BONDS
these goals has pressured investors to
that the push towards achieving a cleaner
ensure that portfolios hold an ESG element
world continues to hold a high priority on the
in some form or another. This is clearly at the
agenda globally. Over 58% of the KPI were
expense of companies seeking funding.
attached towards reducing emissions.
First and foremost, it is essential to make a
As previously pointed out, SLB is not
clear distinction between SLB and green or
always suitable for dedicated ESG-focused
sustainable bonds. The latter is linked to a
investment portfolios. Usually, SLB be a
project, with proceeds being earmarked to a
bridge between traditional corporate bonds
project that will ultimately emerge as a green
and ESG bond issuance. They are more
or sustainable project. A practical example
flexible and dynamic than green and social
would be a company funding its wind farm
bonds; however, they have a clear drive of
project to generate energy for plants instead
achieving ESG long-term goals.
of the currently used traditional energy. On the contrary, SLB is issued for general
Recent data shows that their popularity
corporate fundraising with no restrictions
is still low compared to the ESG space.
on proceeds, with these possibly being
However, there is clear scope for this
earmarked for non-green projects. However,
segment to grow in the coming years, with
importantly these projects would include
data showing an exponential growth to
forward-looking sustainability objectives.
$
The most exciting bit of these investments
Interestingly enough, even monetary
is that SLB has environmental, social and
politicians like the European Central Bank
governance (ESG) related key performance
have put their sights on such instruments.
indicators (KPI) in their structure. This
Indeed, SLB has, since January 2021,
implies that if a company has raised capital
became eligible for its asset purchase
through an SLB but fails to meet the pre-
program-a clear sign that there is room for
agreed KPIs throughout the tenor of the
growth for such investments in the future.
bn in
from the $
bn in
.
bond, the issuer would need to pay the penalty. Indeed, a very popular structure
Moving forward, we believe that SLB is a
that we see in newly issued SLB is the
good option in the transition towards a
step-up coupon clause. This implies that
greener and more sustainable world from an
if the issuer fails to meet the pre-agreed
investor perspective. In contrast, from an
KPIs, it must make additional payments to
issuers perspective, the embedded ESG long
the bondholders, i.e. financing costs for the
term goals give the company the ability to
issuer would increase. Usually, the step-up
possible financing at a lower rate-however
increments are 0.25% per annum, although
with strict discipline throughout the tenor
lately, we have seen issuers holding step-ups
of the bond due to the embedded step-up
of . % and .
coupon clauses.
%. One of the first movers
within the energy space to issue such bonds was Enel Spa. This Italian energy group in issued its first $ . billion five-year
Domestically, recently the Malta Stock Exchange announced that the Malta
SLB, which had a 2.65% annual coupon if the
Financial Services Authority had approved
structures to generate energy through other
company reached a target of 55% renewable
the MSE Green Market- undoubtedly a step
avenues, better known as renewable energy.
energy installed capacity by 2021. On the
in the right direction. However, the notion of
contrary, if it fails, the coupon will increase
SLB might be another option to continue the
by 0.25% until the bond matures.
path towards achieving the ESG goal, given
As governments have clear targets in place
its flexibility in terms of the use of proceeds,
to reduce emissions, over the past two years, we’ve seen a growing market for
The beauty of step-up clauses is that it
while at the same time it disciplines issuers
sustainability-linked investments, namely
disciplines issuers to comply with their KPI as
to abide by the ESG targets. Indeed, for the
sustainability linked bonds (SLB). This is
if they fail to do so the cost to service their
foreseeable future, this will continue to be
clearly in response to, as said, the urgent
debt will increase. This pressures mostly
an exciting arena within the investment
need to address global and environmental
management to ensure that sustainable
space. Locally we should not shy from such
challenges. Moreover, as time progresses,
ways of operating are being achieved.
an option and possibly enact a structure to encourage companies seeking funding to
investors’ changing mentality of sustainable investing seems to form part of the equation
The recent SLB issues, namely in 2020 and
see SLB as a flexible option in their financing
of portfolio allocation. Indeed, the increased
2021, mainly were aligned to environmental
needs. This might also be a surfing board in
awareness of the urgent need to achieve
targets, precisely air pollution, a clear sign
achieving ESG targets in a shorter period.
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
MARKETING
CREATIVES DESIGNERS ARTISTS THIS IS A CALL TO ARMS We have often been told to choose our battles wisely. Many times, this means walking away from a battle that matters. Choose this battle and choose it wisely because you and your industry have been taking the blows for too long. Edward Muscat Azzopardi asks.
50
I S S U E 67
MONEY
MARKETING
If you’re not paid to do anything creative,
uncomfortable to me is not uncomfortable to
The best outcome for a meeting of minds
please move along. Turn the page. This one’s
everyone.
between those proposing creativity and those approving it is a piece of communication
not for you. This is where the good creatives excel. They
that stuns your audiences for all the right
If you’re still reading, strap in for a bit of an
understand their audiences. They know who
reasons - a persuasive piece of beautiful
angry ride.
they’re speaking to and who they are leaving
communication. It ought to look great, and it
out. They refuse to dilute their messaging
ought to do the job of changing people’s minds.
How often do you see a joke on something like
to the point where it becomes familiar to
@designershumour on Instagram and feel like
absolutely everyone. Because that, by
This means that those approving the work
it totally describes an aspect of your day at
definition, is not creative.
need to be comfortable with feeling a little uncomfortable. The best creative does this.
work? The ones about being asked to design something/photograph someone/take an
So, backed by experience, fortified by intuition,
Every time you see the work presented at the
art commission in exchange for exposure. Or
equipped with years of education, driven by
Cannes Lions or the stuff that does the rounds
the ones about the seventy-eight rounds of
the desire to create beautiful and beautifully
with comments like ‘this is a brilliant piece of
changes that a client requests before they
functional communication, the creative
marketing’, you should be thinking, “that’s a
finally accept the work. And by ‘the work’, we
gets to work. This means hours or days of
brilliant collaboration between clever creative
mean a version of the original so watered down
research, sketching, writing, scribbling, finding
and brave client”.
that it looks like those painting-by-numbers
inspiration in the least likely of places, digging
sheets you buy at the Van Gogh museum gift
into ideas that have been squirrelled away
Because it takes two to win at this game, it
shop.
for this very moment. It means losing track of
takes a creative who is willing to be brave and
lunchtime and bedtime because the right way
to have the smarts it takes to produce work
I recently saw one that struck a chord. The
needs more refinement. It means taking honest
that will work, not just look good. And it takes
€500 client is the one that acts like they now
criticism from colleagues and peers and the
a client who knows to keep their personal
own your soul, feeling free to call after office
humility to act upon it.
preferences out of things and to look at the work based on its ability to work for the brand.
hours and to make unreasonable demands and that will pay your fees begrudgingly,
It also means coping with the gut-wrenching
often several months after they’re overdue.
knowledge that if it takes a hundred ideas to
A more prominent logo doesn’t make
The €50,000 client (I know this was on an
get to the right place, ninety-nine of them
communication any more effective. If you hate
international channel) is the one that sends the
must be cruelly culled. They’re your ideas,
the colour blue, it doesn’t mean it shouldn’t
payment and accepts the work.
and you get to kill them.
feature on your creative. If you’re allergic to
This got me thinking. It’s not about the size
Finally, thanks to this ineffable blend of
of the account. It is about the maturity of the
intuition and training, the careful pirouette
client. The small client hasn’t understood the
between fact and feeling, and the tango that
This is not an easy task. It takes discipline and
value of creativity, while those entrusted with
form and function so elegantly dance, the work
restraint. It takes working through the cognitive
massive accounts usually do.
is done and ready to be presented.
dissonance that good creative often puts forth.
Let’s start by a rudimentary definition of what
Presented to whom? This is where it gets
It takes away the safety net that playing safe
we could call ‘successful creative’. This isn’t
messy.
provides.
us to have a phrase that we can work with for
The recipient of your creative work is the
It does lead to greatness, though. It means that
understanding the context.
steward of the brand. They know what is
the brand will be known for its great stories.
brand-appropriate and what isn’t. But, they
No one remembers the brands that play safe. It
There is everything we are familiar with. Bread
are also humans, with a lifetime of experiences
also means you’ll encourage your creatives to
and butter. They go together, and we can all
behind them. And, more often than not, they
produce even more stunning work rather than
see how. Then there is the uncomfortable and
will not take the time to approach creativity
bludgeoning them into a permanent semi-
unfamiliar. This is the stuff we don’t like and
objectively.
coma.
take a couple of different ideas and mash them
This is inevitable. Our lives are experienced
If you’re not paid to do creative and still reading
together to retain enough familiarity for us to
subjectively. But when we’re at work,
this, you’ve noticed this one is also for you. If
see a completely new link between them. If the
we must take an amount of objectivity »
you’re reading this after the warning, it means
link is excellent, it pushes us just towards the
with us. We can’t react emotionally to
you’re curious about breaking some rules. So be
border of the uncomfortable. And the closer it
management accounts even if we want to. We
brave, be that rebel who sticks their neck out in
gets, the better the creative.
can’t respond emotionally to health and safety
the name of a good story that’s well told. Your
regulations. So, we must retain the objectivity
brand will thank you for it, and you’ll have made
But, I hear you scream. What’s familiar to
to think and act in the organisation’s best
a creative happy and fulfilled. And we’d have
me is not familiar to everyone. And what’s
interest and brand.
postponed this call to arms for another day.
cats, they could still help tell a good story.
It takes bravery and the will to fail occasionally.
meant to go into a dictionary. It’s intended for
don’t want to think about. The creative will
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
51
DESIGN
CHANGING SPACES It’s a new buzzing place on everyone’s lips; the Valletta Design Cluster (VDC) within the Valletta Cultural Agency — a legacy project of Valletta 2018, European Capital of Culture — is a community space for cultural and creative practice. Dayna Camilleri Clarke speaks to Caldon Mercieca, VDC manager. Caldon Mercieca has been coordinating the work on the Valletta VDC since its earliest stages. Caldon holds a Master’s Degree in Philosophy from the University of Malta. In addition, he contributes to courses on policy and critical perspectives relating to artistic practice and culture under several faculties and institutes in the Humanities.
For those not in the know, what is the
has a significant impact on its neighbourhood
Valletta Design Cluster?
and residents, regular city users and visitors. By creating a new roof garden designed by
The VDC within the Valletta Cultural Agency is
Tetsuo Kondo Architects, overlaying the whole
a community space for cultural and creative
building, the VDC provides the community
practice situated in the renovated Old Abattoir
with a freely accessible public space and
(Il-Biċċerija l-Antika) in Valletta. The project
a green area within the highly urbanised
supports design and entrepreneurship having
World Heritage context of Valletta. Thanks
a positive social impact, taking collaborative
to its unique design, the garden is one of the
creative approaches as the key to achieving
winners of the ‘City Landscape’ category of
benefits for individuals, communities, and
the international contest Premio – Concorso
society.
“City Brand & Tourism Landscape Award” by Paysage Topscape.
Who designed it? How did this project come to light? The major works to convert the Old Abattoir site into the VDC took off in
52
under Perit
The regeneration of the Old Abattoir has
Amanda Degiovanni within the Restoration
been on paper since the early days of
Directorate and has been part-financed by
preparations for Valletta 2018. The project
the European Regional Development Fund.
was the brainchild of Valletta Cultural Agency
This was a major urban repurposing project in
chairman Jason Micallef, then chairman of the
Valletta as a legacy project of Valletta 2018. It
Valletta 2018 Foundation. He saw the potential
I S S U E 67
MONEY
DESIGN
of the space, which had been neglected for
Membership Scheme are open, and evaluation
The 2022 calendar is packed to the brim
over
continues.
with the Wiki Loves Folklore international
years. His idea was to create the first
incubator for design and creativity on the
photographic contest from February to March,
island. Mr Micallef describes the building as a
What is the members’ strand and studio-
design workshops, the Design4Innovation
gem in the heart of the city – a unique space
based strand?
Malta meeting and more exciting projects.
where the community and people can meet. The main facilities for cultural and creative
How do you fit in line with the sustainable
What will it bring to the local community,
practitioners are accessible via a membership
development goals of the UN?
and is it open for international artists too?
scheme that runs in two strands: a regular member’s strand and a studio-based members’
The VDC builds mainly on the 11th UN goal
The VDC offers affordable spaces for artists
strand. Both are open to organisations having
for sustainable development: to make cities
and design-related start-ups. At the same
a valid legal status as a Voluntary Organisation
and human settlements inclusive, resilient,
time, the ‘Artists in Residence’ programme
or registered Non-Governmental Organisation;
and sustainable. Apart from creating and
invites international artists to be lodged at the
active in a field related to design and
implementing a custom environmental policy
apartments within the VDC.
engagement in the cultural and social sphere,
for cultural events, the VDC is the critical
and engaging with community members in
component of the Valletta Cultural Agency’s
Valletta or on a national or international level.
strategy to promote sustainability. Through
How is it different from other local art
its roof garden, it introduces a new green lung
spaces? Studio-based membership is open to
in this neighbourhood. The garden features
Spanning over 3,212 square metres, the
organisations employing at least two people.
small shrubs and trees of mostly local or
Cluster offers
This membership strand is also available to
Mediterranean origin, reducing the need for
for prototyping; two international project labs,
NGOs, enterprises, and eligible individuals,
excessive watering, further mitigated by using
a conference hall; and food space, including
according to the membership criteria
two rain-fed large water cisterns under the
a nine-station training kitchen, among other
published on https://www.vca.gov.mt/en/
building. In addition, the green roof provides
areas. In addition, the VDC hosts artistic
valletta-design-cluster/become-a-member.
an excellent opportunity to disseminate this
studios; tools and machines
practice to other areas, extending the benefits
activity that brings people together in one hub. How has the pandemic affected the VDC? What has been the public reaction to date?
beyond the immediate neighbourhood.
What type of events/exhibitions have you held so far, and what’s on the cards?
The greenery on the roof helps keep the temperature stable inside the rooms
The public reaction has been very positive and overwhelming in some cases, with
While the pandemic has altered the way
underneath, making the space less dependent
membership applications pouring in. Several
people meet, this has in no way stopped the
on artificial cooling and heating throughout
designs and fashion photoshoots have taken
operations of the VDC. While social distancing
the year. A glass canopy overlooking the
place while television programmes are being
measures have been adopted, the space
central courtyard of the Cluster has in-
filmed on site. In addition, the Travellers, a local
has been buzzing with talks, discussions,
built photovoltaic (PV) cells that generate
band, have recorded their ‘Valletta Rooftop
workshops and rehearsals both on-site
electricity and reduce the Cluster’s
Sessions’, released online. Applications for the
and online.
dependence on fossil fuel energy. Rainwater is collected in reservoirs underneath the building and is then used to water the garden. The whole project can be seen as a largescale upcycling exercise, including intensive recycling of several structural features and building material found on-site, converting this into a space that can accommodate social and cultural activity without the need to consume precious new land on the peripheries of Malta’s towns and villages. How can people support VCA? The VCA encourages the public to actively engage in its projects and events while businesses can support the arts and culture by sponsoring events. For more information, visit vca.gov.mt and the Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/vallettaculturalagency or send an email to info@vca.gov.mt.
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
53
PROMO
GET YOUR PROJECT’S CREATIVE JUICES FLOWING Whether gazing out across the savannah or next to street art in a vibrant city, we are inspired by the world around us.
What’s distinctive about humans
world, create spaces, and leave
making, gardening, cooking, and
and anything else their minds
is that we can imagine something
behind a footprint that will always
anything else you can imagine to
could fathom. Technologists find
and then make it real. Harnessing
remind the next generation of
express something we feel inside
creative ways, every single day, to
the latest findings in evolution,
who we are. We want to be seen,
through a distinct medium.
solve the next biggest challenge.
biology, and archaeology, new
to be heard and most of all, to
synthesis shows that creativity
be remembered.
Our reality has become defined
and cooperation have been the
In this world, designers, as well
by the digital. However, very few
as technologists, have come to
of us still write on paper, read, or
great drivers of human progress.
Creativity is what makes us so
flourish. Artists can now draw
even speak in person. We have
As people, we seek to express
unique as a species. So many of
on digital surfaces and create
come to face a situation wherein
ourselves, give something to the
us turn to music, art, writing, film-
designs, drawings, patterns,
the human had to adapt to the
54
I S S U E 67
MONEY
PROMO
ever-changing world around him
stone. We want our team to be
once again.
creative, happy, hard-working, and collaborative. We strive to
“At Rocksteady, we have a
make employees feel at home
commonly shared belief that
and appreciated, and we’ve found
designers and technologists are
that this is a crucial element for
the rock stars of the 21st century.”
keeping people engaged and the work they create remains of the
We try to find a balance between
uppermost quality.
the digital and the real, bringing the pen and paperback,
“Crashing through the fine line
handwriting to-do lists, ideas,
between strategy, design, user
goals and even our dreams, all the
experience and technology.”
while making the best use of what
technology brings today – Yes,
We are a creative-minded, human-
the best of both worlds. Human
centred, tech-savvy digital
interaction is also an essential
agency that creates innovative
part of our roles. It allows us room
ideas through building brands,
for pitching ideas verbally and to
products, and experiences. Our
grow, change or alter those ideas
unique blend of expertise and
using physical conversation.
experiences across the world of technology, creativity, and
Being a part of Rocksteady means
marketing enables us to create
that you will always have a voice!
strategies and campaigns that
Our team is not the biggest, but
genuinely transform brands and
we pride ourselves on the fact
organisations, open possibilities,
that every person can bring
inspire audiences, attract
countless brilliant ideas to the
customers, and ultimately
table. We listen, we think, and
generate sales.
then we act. Founded in 2015, Rocksteady is We’ve all heard people say that
a Digital Agency that focuses
sometimes, as companies grow,
on producing integrated,
communication becomes less
transformational strategies and
transparent, which might cause
experiences across the entire
ideas to get lost along the way.
digital space. Our approach is
a vibrant city, or even at home,
precisely as it differentiates us
Therefore, we always make
data-led and 100% audience-
witnessing something ordinary
from other companies. People
everyone feel like their ideas are
focused, allowing us to solve
but managing to find the beauty
always come first at Rocksteady.
essential and want to hear them.
problems in the most impactful
in it, that is where we get the love
Simply because it is ingrained in
In addition, we always make sure
and measurably effective way.
and passion for our work.
our mindsets, and it is how we’ve
our environment is a collaborative
At Rocksteady, we focus on
As a company, we offer our team
to operate. Inspiration comes
one, not by choice but by nature.
producing as much creativity
a state-of-the-art office with
easier when everyone on your
to our work as possible. From
ample outdoor terrace space and
team is in a good mood. It allows
Our company culture at
corporate branding to rhinos in
promote a good work-life balance
us to find inspiration in the
Rocksteady is engraved in
spaceships and everything in
and working environment. This
most unlikely places, simply
between, we make sure to get
gives employees the freedom to
because it’s coming from the
your project’s creative juices
make their schedule and work
way we see the world and the
flowing. We count on our creativity
at their own pace towards our
way we feel inside – indeed
to help deliver the best possible
targets, increasing productivity,
something we would always like
end-product to our clients.
engagement, loyalty, and overall
to be remembered for.
always wanted Rocksteady
that each team member feels that
happiness. All of which set a good We look at everything for
foundation for better ideas and a
We bring you the extraordinary
inspiration, from the smallest
more productive company.
story of the most exciting brand of all time.
of things to the biggest ones.
MONEY
Whether it’s gazing out across the
We believe that working hard
savannah or next to street art in
to keep our company culture
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
www.rocksteady.mt
55
Designer Luke Azzopardi
Photographer Marvin Grech
Model Bojana @ Models M
Stylist Peter Carbonaro
Make-up Artist Danilo Monforte
Shot on location at Balal Stables | All items by Luke Azzopardi
FA SHION
NIKE Space hippie 04 stretch-knit sneakers
WACKO MARIA
€140
+ Tim Lehi camp-collar printed woven shirt €620
AUTUMN APPAREL Autumn doesn’t need to be a browner shade of brown. MONEY welcomes the new season with a show of delectable fashion pieces. All items available from mrporter.com
KITON Colour-block cashmere rollneck sweater €2,210
MONCLER Cuvellier quilted
BERLUTI
shell down jacket
Scritto leather backpack €2,650
€
64
I S S U E 67
MONEY
FA SHION
GUCCI Logo-print cotton-jersey hoodie €
GUCCI Keveh logo-detailed webbing-trimmed two-tone leather loafers €
TOM FORD Shelton slim-fit brushed cashmere-twill blazer €3,860
NEIGHBORHOOD Logo-print cotton-jersey t-shirt €
ROLEX Datejust 36 mm, Oyster steel and Everose gold €11,100 / elcol.com
MONEY
T H E D E S I G N , A R T S & C R E AT I V I T Y E D I T I O N
65
NEWS
LEADERS for CHANGE The 2021 JCI Malta National
session on ‘How leaders start their
fewer opportunities to relax and
– and how to recognise if you are
Convention - a two-day
day’ focusing on the importance
be aware of how our words and
one of the difficult people!
conference that offers talks,
of mental and physical health
actions affect both our lives
training sessions, public speaking
in people’s daily lives. This will
and the lives of those whom we
2021 National President and
opportunities, and a healthy dose
be followed by the first keynote
interact with.
the main organiser behind the
of fun - will be based on the year’s
speech of the convention by
theme ‘Leaders for Change’ and
international motivational speaker
The second keynote speech
“The whole team behind the
held on the 30th and 31st October
from the USA, Jay Johnson,
of the day will be delivered by
National Convention is super
at The Notch business centre in
on ‘The Power of Being Open
the renowned local speaker,
excited to be bringing to the table
San Ġwann.
to Change’. After that, a panel
Julian Azzopardi, CEO of UP
a varied conference, full to the
session titled ‘When Sh*t Hits
Performance Coaching, as he
brim with knowledge, inspiration,
2021 National President and
the Fan’ will regale the public
tackles the topic of ‘If not me,
opportunities, recognition and
the main organiser behind the
with real-life experiences from
who? Your actions matter’. With
pure fun.”
convention, Nicole Borg, said:
people who failed before they
seven billion people inhabiting
“This year we have been focusing
succeeded; they’ll speak about
the earth, the importance of the
The JCI Malta National
on giving our members the
their struggles, the sleepless
action of a single person cannot
Convention is open to the public.
necessary tools to be true leaders
nights, the doubts, and eventually
be underestimated – added
Registration for the convention
of change through a variety of
the climax and satisfaction of
together, seven billion individual
is open online on jci.org.mt/
initiatives. After a long period of
success.
actions could have tremendous
national-convention, and there
life-changing consequences.
are different pricing tiers for
convention, Nicole Borg, said:
not fully coming together due
members, non-members, and
to the pandemic, the National
The second international
Convention will serve as a hotspot
speaker for the conference,
The convention’s second day
JCI partners. The JCI Malta
for all our members, partners,
Keira Keogh from Ireland, will talk
will include another keynote
National Convention is sponsored
supporters and those young
about emotional intelligence,
speech on the importance
by Smart Studios, The Notch,
people interested in leadership.”
asking ‘Where has our empathy
of reconnecting with people
Urban Valley Resort, Content for
gone?’ This topic is extremely
following the imposed distance
Success, The Concept Stadium
Hosting an eclectic group of
prevalent in our lives that seem to
due to the pandemic that saw a
and supported by Veonio and
people with different backgrounds
constantly get busier, especially
spike in mental health issues and
Malta Tourism Authority.
and experiences but who are all
as technology becomes more
social problems like loneliness.
Entities that are interested in
committed to the importance
ingrained in our daily routine
Jay Johnson will deliver what is
sponsoring the convention are
of honing their leadership skills,
(sometimes overtaking human
sure to be a rousing session on
invited to contact JCI Malta for
the convention will kick off with a
interaction), leaving us with
how to deal with difficult people
further information.
66
I S S U E 67
MONEY
bloom@bloomcreative.com.mt
We build remarkable brands. To view a selection of our best work, visit bloomcreative.com.mt