Vassallo Group has kept a long-standing tradition of marking International Women's Day with a lavish lunch to which over 100 women - directors, managers and employees from across the group - are invited. This year the event was held on 8th March at the Chamber of Commerce. Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties Helena Dalli and Renee Laiviera, Commissioner of the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE) were the invited special guests.
CareMalta's CEO Natalie Briffa Farrugia delivered a strong message about women's rights and equality which have come a long way in only a few decades. She spoke about the tough challenge she faced to complete the Malta Full Marathon to support people with disability while also practising HILA's Believe Achieve motto. She also launched a CareMalta campaign to enrol 25 individuals ready to run the half-marathon next year to commemorate CareMalta's 25th Anniversary.
Nazzareno Vassallo proudly stated that 60 per cent of the work force are women and that per cent of the Group's directors are women too. He said that women are now involved in all levels within the group management structures including shareholders and directors, managers, assistant managers and supervisors. A short video clip showing the different types of work performed by women working with companies within the group was shown to the guests.
Minister Helena Dalli congratulated Mrs Briffa Farrugia for her courage and determination in completing such a tough challenge and added that she is a great inspiration to all including herself. He also spoke about Vassallo Group's promotion of women's rights for equality. Dr Dalli also applauded the group for its understanding and support of a greater balance of work and family life for their employees and for achieving the Equality Mark throughout 2016.
All women were presented with a special gift as a token of appreciation. The lunch was prepared by CaterEssence, a leading catering company which forms part of the group.