Young Maltese Farmer Wins EPP Young Farmers Award In Brussels

Recently in Brussels, Ryan Portelli, 22, from Rabat, was named the winner of the EPP’s 11th European Congress of Young Farmers. Portelli was nominated for the award by MEP Peter Agius in recognition of his work on the Syneco pilot project, which explores innovative ways to turn pig and cow waste into energy and fertiliser, promoting environmental sustainability and a circular economy.

It is the first time a Maltese farmer has been nominated for this prestigious award. MEP Agius said he nominated Portelli to highlight the important role of farmers in advancing environmental goals while strengthening food security in Malta. The Congress, held at the European Parliament in Brussels, opened with a speech by EP President Roberta Metsola, who emphasised the need for policies and funding that support young farmers.

In a story on social media, MEP Peter Agius wrote, “Our young Maltese farmer has brought home an award from the European Young Farmers’ Congress, flying Malta’s flag high across Europe!”

Portelli, a third-generation farmer whose family is part of Malta’s largest farmers cooperative, accepted the award on behalf of the entire Maltese farming community. “This is a victory for all Maltese farmers,” he said. “Projects like Syneco, which grow from farms into national solutions, must be supported, and farmers need the time and tools to adapt to new sustainable practices.”

#MaltaDaily