Must-See Speakers at ‘Ahead of the Game’: The Business Leaders Conference 2025

Mar 13 2025

The highly anticipated 12th edition of Ahead of the Game: The Business Leaders Conference 2025 is set to bring an exceptional line-up of visionary speakers to Malta. Organised by Business Leaders Malta in collaboration with Malta Daily, the event will take place with a future-forward theme, diving into the trends, technologies, and leadership strategies shaping the business world of tomorrow.

Kicking off the event are Keane Cutajar and Morgan Parnis, setting the tone for an inspiring day ahead. The conference will then feature an impressive roster of industry experts and thought leaders, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the stage.

Among the highlights is Jordan Schwarzenberger, co-founder of Arcade Media and manager of the Sidemen, who will deliver a keynote on Building Culture-Driven Brands in a Digital Era, exploring how businesses can leverage cultural relevance to thrive in the digital age.

AI innovation will take center stage with Gege Gatt, a leading voice in artificial intelligence, as he delves into AI Leadership: Navigating Change, Talent and Transformation, offering insights on harnessing AI to drive business success.

Another must-see speaker is Taylor Freeman, a pioneer in virtual and augmented reality, who will transport attendees into the Immersive Revolution and provide a glimpse into the future of technology-driven business landscapes.

The conference also spotlights Katrina Grech, who will explore Beyond the Bottom Line: Why Human-Centred Leadership Wins, a crucial discussion on the power of empathetic leadership in today’s corporate world.

A compelling panel discussion featuring Rebecca Bonnici, George Gregory, and Morgan Parnis, moderated by Christine Gingell, will dive into how brands can maintain longevity and impact beyond their founders’ tenure.

The event reaches its peak with a keynote by internationally renowned speaker Jim Lawless, who will inspire attendees with The Bold Leap: Breaking Barriers to Stay Ahead, challenging business leaders to push past limitations and embrace transformation fearlessly.

With an agenda packed with insights, networking opportunities, and engaging discussions, Ahead of the Game 2025 promises to be a transformative experience for business professionals looking to stay ahead in an ever-evolving world.

Don’t miss the chance to connect with industry pioneers and gain invaluable knowledge at Malta’s leading business leadership conference!

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Drug Crisis in Malta: 18 Drug-Related Deaths in Malta in 2023

Mar 13 2025

The National Drug Report on the Situation and Response to Drugs in Malta for 2023 has revealed a sharp increase in the number of people seeking help for drug addiction. The report highlights ongoing trends from previous years, suggesting that more individuals are actively seeking treatment rather than remaining trapped in addiction.

Malta faced a grim reality in 2023, with 18 confirmed drug-related deaths, the majority linked to cocaine abuse. According to the report, 13 fatalities were attributed to cocaine overdoses, while five were caused by heroin. Most victims were over 40 years old, underscoring a persistent crisis among older drug users.

Law enforcement also reported a staggering 493kg of cocaine seizures, with purity levels rising to 57%. This spike in purity raises serious concerns about increasingly potent and dangerous drugs flooding the market. Meanwhile, over 1,266 people required emergency medical attention due to drug-related complications—a figure comparable to the previous year.

The demand for rehabilitation services continues to grow, with 41% of all treatment seekers battling cocaine addiction. Alarmingly, 68% of these individuals relapsed and sought help multiple times. Minister Michael Falzon stressed the need for a holistic approach, focusing on prevention, intervention, and long-term support for both users and their families.

At a press conference, the National Report on the Drug Situation and Response in Malta for 2023 was officially unveiled. Compiled annually, the report provides a detailed overview of drug consumption trends in the country. While the rise in treatment seekers indicates greater awareness and willingness to recover, the increasing presence of high-purity drugs remains a pressing concern.

Authorities and health professionals continue to emphasise that addiction is not confined to any one locality or social class, urging a collective national effort to combat this escalating crisis.

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Gozo Set to Get a New Green Space: Ulysses Grove Project Tender Launched

Mar 13 2025

Minister Clint Camilleri has announced the launch of the tender for the Ulysses Grove project, an exciting initiative aimed at further enhancing the quality of life in Gozo. The project will create a family-friendly park, offering a safer, more accessible space for outdoor activities and community events.

Situated in the heart of the island, Ulysses Grove will be transformed into a vibrant green area for families to enjoy, with a focus on sustainability and well-being. Once completed, the park will stand as a testament to the Ministry’s commitment to Gozo, improving infrastructure and prioritising both environmental conservation and recreational opportunities.

This initiative is being funded through the Ministry for Gozo and Planning, in collaboration with the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF), showcasing a continued investment in the island’s future.

Ulysses Grove is set to become an important community hub, providing an ideal space for families to connect with nature and engage in outdoor activities under the sun.

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Cocaine Addiction Surges in Malta: 41% of Cases Seek Help

Mar 13 2025

The National Drug Report on the Situation and Response to Drugs in Malta for 2023 has highlighted a significant increase in the number of people seeking help for drug addiction. The report states that this trend has been observed in previous years, reflecting a shift towards active intervention rather than passivity in the face of addiction.

Cocaine addiction is gripping Malta harder than ever, with 41% of those seeking drug treatment in 2023 struggling with the substance. Alarmingly, 68% of these individuals relapsed, requiring treatment more than once.

The report revealed that over 2,300 people sought treatment, with heroin remaining the most common addiction. However, cocaine dependency is rising sharply, coinciding with an increase in drug purity levels, which reached 57%. Minister Michael Falzon warned that drug abuse is not confined to any one area or social class, calling for a united effort to combat addiction. Meanwhile, law enforcement recorded historic drug seizures, confiscating 493kg of cocaine and 154kg of cannabis over the course of the year.

Despite growing awareness, the battle against addiction is far from over. Experts stress that greater access to treatment and long-term support is crucial in tackling this escalating crisis.

The National Report on the Drug Situation and Response in Malta is compiled annually, and provides a clear picture of drug consumption trends in the country. It highlights the steady rise in individuals seeking treatment, particularly for cocaine addiction.

While this increase in treatment seekers may be a positive sign, indicating a greater willingness to fight addiction, the growing presence of high-purity drugs poses a serious and ongoing challenge.

#MaltaDaily