6th Edition Of Animal Honours Awards Celebrate Animal Welfare Champions

The sixth edition of the Animal Honours Awards has been successfully held by the Parliamentary Secretariat responsible for Animal Rights, recognising individuals, organisations and animals that have made an outstanding contribution to animal welfare, protection and rights in Malta.

The awards ceremony also marked the conclusion of Malta Animal Awareness Week, an annual initiative dedicated to highlighting the work carried out throughout the year to improve the lives of animals and promote responsible ownership.

This year's awards featured five categories, honouring people, professionals, businesses, organisations and animals that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the sector. Winners were selected following a public nomination process, giving members of the public the opportunity to recognise those making a meaningful difference in animal welfare.

Parliamentary Secretary for Animal Rights Alicia Bugeja Said said the awards provide an important opportunity to thank those who dedicate their time, expertise and energy to improving the lives of animals.

She said the sixth edition reflects the growing commitment within Maltese society towards greater responsibility, respect and compassion for animals, congratulating all winners, nominees and everyone whose work continues to make a positive impact.

Animal Welfare Commissioner Elliot Magro said initiatives such as the Animal Honours Awards help keep animal welfare high on the public agenda. He said recognising positive examples within society plays an important role in encouraging cultural change and strengthening respect for the dignity, wellbeing and rights of animals.

Meanwhile, Director within the Animal Welfare Department Dennis Sciberras said every nomination represents a story of dedication by professionals, volunteers and organisations working in the sector. He said the awards help give visibility to these efforts while encouraging more people to recognise their own role in protecting animals and promoting higher standards of care.

The winners of this year's Animal Honours Awards were the MSPCA, which received the Sanctuary Excellence Award, Maria Attard, named Volunteer of the Year, and Fonzu, who won the Second Chance Companion Award.

Gian Paul Bongailas received two awards, winning both the Pet-Friendly Business Award for his work as a rabbit groomer and the People's Choice Award for Contribution to the Animal Welfare Sector.

During the ceremony, three special awards were also presented to Romina Frendo, Alison Bezzina and James Ryder in recognition of their contribution to animal welfare in Malta.

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Photo Source: DOI - Alan Saliba