Local Dance Partners Secure First Place In “Champions of Tomorrow” World Championship

Jan 8 2025

Local dance partners, Airam Abela and Mia Mifsud have been crowned Double Juvenile Under 12 Latin and Ballroom Champions after securing first place in both Ballroom and Latin at the “Champions of Tomorrow” World Championship held in Blackpool, UK.

This victory marks a remarkable start to 2025 for the young dancers, following an outstanding 2024, where they won first place at the Azerbaijan Dance Festival and claimed two World Championship titles at the Assen Dance Festival, organised by the World Dance Council.

Looking ahead, Airam and Mia are eager to return to the studio after their Blackpool success to prepare for their next competition, the United Kingdom Open Dance Festival in Bournemouth, which takes place in two weeks. At this event, they will compete once again against talented dancers from around the world.

The duo expressed deep gratitude for the support they’ve received throughout their journey, extending special thanks to their school, Steps Ahead Dance Academy, and their dedicated teachers, Rosella Scerri De Carlo, Denzyl Scerri De Carlo, Lisa Marie Pace, Keane Scerri De Carlo, and Martina Camilleri.

A heartfelt thank you was also given to their coach, Nancy Berti, and their sponsors, dsilondon, for providing fantastic dance wear.

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Maruska Vella Send Heartwarming Message To Son Jake Vella

Jan 8 2025

Maruska Vella, mother of the late inspirational athlete Jake Vella, who tragically passed away at the age of 15 after battling the rare condition ROHHAD, shared a heartfelt message to her son on Facebook.

In her emotional post, Maruska expressed how much she misses the routine of visiting Jake, reminiscing about their time together, even during the challenging days in the hospital. She fondly recalled how Jake was always full of joy and never allowed the difficulties to dampen his spirit.

She shared that their time together was filled with laughter, with Jake often playing the piano and guitar for her. Despite his struggles, he would attend his online school lessons, share warm hugs, and have deep, meaningful conversations with her, moments that Maruska treasured deeply.

Maruska went on to say that not a day passes without her thinking of Jake and feeling his presence with her. Wherever she goes, people speak to her about him, a testament to the incredible impact he left on everyone who knew him.

She concluded her touching message by asking Jake to keep watching over her and his father, and expressed her love, saying, “If only you knew the legacy you left behind with your simplicity — you left behind something truly great.”

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Gozo Arts Weekend Returns January 24th 2025

Jan 8 2025

The Ministry for Gozo and Planning is once again organizing the Gozo Arts Weekend, which will take place from January 24 to 26, 2025, in various locations across the island.

This year, the spotlight will be on the renowned Gozitan artist and sculptor, Michael Camilleri Cauchi.

Minister for Gozo and Planning, Clint Camilleri, stated: “During the Gozo Arts Weekend, both local and international audiences will enjoy a varied program centered around the works of Michael Camilleri Cauchi, an artist who needs no introduction. This year’s edition will highlight Camilleri Cauchi’s talent, showcasing his sculptures, which delight the eye and convey powerful messages.”

The Gozo Arts Weekend aims to strengthen Gozo’s position as a cultural and tourist destination. This year’s program will feature a range of activities and exhibitions, offering visitors a unique opportunity to discover and appreciate the works of sculptor Michael Camilleri Cauchi, as well as to meet the artist in person.

“This celebration reflects our commitment to enhancing the arts as an essential part of Gozo’s identity and tourism offering. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating Gozitan talent and the universal language of art,” concluded Minister Camilleri.

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Din L-Art Ħelwa Proposes Dismantling And Moving Iconic Għajn Tuffieħa Tower

Jan 8 2025

Times of Malta have revealed that NGO Din L-Art Ħelwa have advised the government to dismantle and relocate the iconic tower found in Għajn Tuffieħa to a more viable and safe location.

The NGO proposed this relocation due to fears that the tower might collapse due to the movement of the cliff which the tower is located on.

In recent days, police closed off access to the tower due to concerns, saying the tower structure and surrounding area were at risk of collapsing.

DLĦ Executive President Patrick Calleja stated that permission has recently been granted for private developers to dismantle a section of the 19th-century British barracks at Fort Chambray to enhance the view for newly proposed residential units, so surely the same could be done to preserve the tower.

Built by the Knights in 1637, the Għajn Tuffieħa Tower has long watched over one of Malta’s most stunning coastal landscapes. Din l-Art Ħelwa has raised concerns about the tower’s deteriorating state, warning that its collapse would be a devastating blow to Malta’s cultural heritage. The NGO is urging immediate action to preserve this historic landmark before it is lost forever.

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