Ryan Hili opens up after XFactor and first ‘Boys’ victory

Feb 14 2022

The X-Factor Season 3 Finale was an eventful evening, with stellar performances and massive surprises. Following his victory, Ryan Hili took to social media to open up about the experience and his journey on the competition. ‘I don’t know know where to start!’ he exclaimed in his post, describing the past few months as ‘impeccable.’

Hili however revealed that he was ‘hesitant as [he] thought it was going to be a massive struggle, but now [he is] so thankful that [he] didn’t hold back and went for it.’Ryan had revealed that he had never performed in front of large audiences before, so his path to the top came as a bit of a surprise for him. For the audience however, who voted him victor, were constantly amazed by his control of voice and depth.

He continued by saying that ‘being the first ever male to win for the boys’ category is truly an honour. I believe that it is very important to have more Maltese male soloists come forward and pursue a career in music. It’s a pity that there are only a few in the music industry here in Malta.’ He dedicated the rest of his post to thanking those who supported him. He thanked his mentor Howard Keith for pushing him and teaching him all the things he needed to become a great artist and performer.

He extended his gratitude to the producers, directors and everyone who had a hand in the competition. Of course, he thanked the other 12 contestants who made the experience memorable and unforgettable. Finally, he expressed how thankful he was of all his fans who voted and supported him throughout the competition. ‘I am honestly so blessed to be surrounded with so many people and I look forward to working on more music and share it with you very soon.’

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Man handed 18-month suspended sentence after pleading guilty to revenge porn

Feb 13 2022

A 33-year-old German national working in Malta has been handed an 18-month prison sentence, suspended for three years, after pleading guilty to charges made against him relating to revenge porn.

The man was arraigned in the Court of Malta on Sunday afternoon after being accused of maliciously sharing photos of his former partner without her consent. The man was also charged with attempt to use force to hurt his ex-girlfriend, failing to report the loss of his passport and improper use of electronic communications equipment.

The man’s former partner, a Maltese national, went to the police after becoming aware being notified by her friend that her pictures were being shared. The man ultimately pleaded guilty to all charges in the arraignment, carrying a maximum of two years imprisonment or a fine of up to €5,000. Defense lawyer Daniel Attard argued that the man shared the pictures amongst a small group of friends.

The names in the case were not revealed as to protect the victim’s identity.

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The Pope is calling on the Maltese government to treat migrants with humanity, say NGOs

Feb 13 2022

Non-Governmental Organisations working in the local field of migration have stated that the Pope has sent a clear message to the Maltese Government and that is to treat migrants with humanity and dignity.

These organisations have stated that Pope Francis’ April visit to Malta and the Ħal Far Peace Lab in particular will hopefully shine a light on the trials and tribulations migrants have faced on the island, including their treatment and living conditions.

A 2021 Council of Europe report highlighted how Malta “risked jeopardising the right to life of people at sea”, with the Council’s Human Rights Commissioner calling the Safi detention centre’s living conditions ‘deplorable’.

Human rights NGO ‘Aditus Foundation’ president Neil Falzon stated how Malta has dehumanised migrants with pushbacks, detention, racism and exclusion whilst “proudly proclaiming the nation’s faith and values”, going on to highlight how the Pope has conveyed a clear message of humanity and dignity.

What do you make of this?

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President walks girl to school after she was bullied for having Down Syndrome

Feb 13 2022

The President of North Macedonia and an 11-year-old schoolgirl are making global headlines after exhibiting one of the most wholesome acts of kindness of 2022.

President Stevo Pendarovski was pictured holding 11-year-old Embla Ademi’s hand as he walked her to her school in Gostivar on Monday after she had faced acts of bullying. A spokesperson for the President noted that Embla was bullied for having Down Syndrome – a genetic condition which causes certain learning problems, health issues and distinctive facial characteristics.

Not only did the President hold Embla’s hand whilst walking her to school, but he sat down with her parents to discuss the challenges they face, going on to discuss potential solutions in the regard of children’s rights and their endangerment.

In Malta, a total 360 reports of bullying were made to the police in 2021, with the Police Force receiving 18 total reports of bullying concerning minors between January 2021 and January 2022. Minister for Home Affairs Byron Camilleri had revealed that the average age of victims was 14, with St. Paul’s Bay registering the highest amount of reports.

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