Tell us a little bit about Zghazagh Haddiema Nsara.

Zghazagh Haddiema Nsara (ZHN Malta) forms part of the international Young Christian Workers movement – young lay workers whose purpose is to witness Christ among their fellow workers and work together with the Church’s hierarchy. They act to achieve a life of freedom that better suits their human dignity as Christ wills it both for themselves and their friends.
 

The movement was founded by Cardinal Joseph Cardijn in Belgium following the First World War to support young industrial workers in Brussels. The movement in Malta started shortly after World War II by the late Fr Michael Galea SJ, with the first members being workers from the Admiralty Dockyard. The movement in Malta has certainly flourished since the late ’40s but the mission remains the same – witnessing Christ and fighting for social justice.

In what way is this organisation keeping itself relevant in today’s world?

The movement uses a method of analysis called the See, Judge, Act review. Young people are encouraged to analyse situations that affect them every day and organise specific actions to make a positive change. This method actually challenges young people to be aware of the reality of their situation and of those around them, whether it’s at their place of work, school, home, community and society.

In practical terms, the movement reaches out to young people by keeping its projects relevant to whatever interests young people today. One example would be a pamphlet that was published by ZHN about how to gain and master necessary job interview skills.

Are the people who work in ZHN volunteers?

Yes, all the people are volunteers in ZHN. Being a volunteer is a challenge but in truth, the proof of the pudding is in the eating – once you take the plunge and try something new, and like it, it could get you hooked. There is a joy in doing something for other people and then realising how many skills you learn and friends you make.

What are the ideals behind Strummin’? What are its aims?

Strummin’ is the annual live music concert organised by ZHN. It features a guitar choir which strums along to popular songs in a bid to raise funds for a local charity. The aims are threefold – to empower young people; to help young people develop their talents and realise their potential; and to promote and raise funds for a good cause.

How did the idea come about?

It all started in 2002 when the idea was to collect funds for the Suret il-Bniedem Foundation which helps the homeless. Strummin’ in those days was called Strummin’ Home but last year the concert was rebranded Strummin’ so as to encompass all the beneficiaries who benefit from the funds raised by Strummin’. This would not be entirely possible where it not for the very able committee set up every year from and by ZHN members and other volunteers who organise the logistics of the event.

Who benefits from the funds what Strummin’ raises?

Over the years, local charities such as the Suret il-Bniedem Foundation, the Richmond Foundation, the Malta Community Chest Fund and Puttinu Cares have all benefitted from Strummin’. Last year €2,100 were raised for Puttinu Cares. This year’s proceeds will go to Hospice Malta. Usually Strummin’ helps these charities through monetary funds, but help also involves exposure of the beneficiaries’ works and activities to our strummers and our audience.

Why was Hospice Malta chosen this year?

Hospice Malta, a voluntary organisation inspired by Christian values, was formed in the late 1980s in a bid to provide and promote palliative care to people with cancer and terminal diseases. Recognising the challenges and difficulties patients and their families face, Hospice Malta aims to help patients live life as fully as possible, enhancing the quality of that life and providing support to the patients’ families. Strummin’ values the organisation’s work and so agreed to support it this year.

How many concerts have taken place so far?

This is going to be the twelfth edition of what has become a big annual event in our calendar. Since the seventh edition, the idea has been to have a theme for each concert.

What’s being prepared for the show this year?

Strummin’ wanted to explore the beauty of the forces of nature, hence Strummin’ the Elements. More than 80 guitarists will be on stage and let’s just say that if the likes of Gene Kelly, The Beatles and AC/DC tickle your fancy, then you know that you just can’t miss this concert! 

Tickets to Strummin’ can be obtained by calling ZHN on 7924 4418 or http://www.sayitmalta.com/ticket.php?i=1 More information can be obtained by liking the Strummin’ Home Facebook page or visiting http://strumminartists.com/

This event is supported by Voices Foundation, the Good Causes Fund, Malta International Airport, MCAST and The Sound System.