Following Miriana Conte's recent triumph in the local Eurovision festival - and the heated debate over the song's title, branding, and upcoming performance - I found myself reflecting on the deeper meaning behind its name and why it resonates, especially with us youth.
Beyond the spectacle of the music industry and the media frenzy surrounding the song, the artist, and the message - real or perceived - one core principle stands out: serving.
To serve is to give, to dedicate time and effort to something beyond oneself. It is the act of putting others before personal gain. It is a noble act that demands selflessness and purpose. And this is precisely what we need to build upon-not just in words, but in action.
As a councillor, my role is not to be served but to serve. To serve the people. To serve the residents. Every job is, in some way, a form of service. In politics, that duty is magnified. It is easy to be consumed by self-interest in today's world. Too often, we prioritise personal success over the greater good. But real leadership - real impact - comes from a place of selflessness.
In recent years, the word 'serving' has gained renewed significance, especially in describing those who have dedicated their lives to others. Last week I again stopped to ponder about the 'act of serving'. The demise of Archbishop Emeritus Paul Cremona compelled many people to sing his praises. A common thread throughout was his unwavering quest to serve others. And in such a different reality when compared to this year's Eurovision song entry; I felt inclined to observe the same fundamental and underlying principle: both personalities focused on the act of serving. Both made it their focal points.
Decades apart, different worlds and context, yet serving was the driving factor. The contrast between these two worlds could not be starker. Yet, the underlying message remains unchanged - serving is at the heart of true purpose.
As a young person, I feel we are slowly losing the drive to serve. Volunteering, offering help without expecting anything in return, and stepping up for the greater good - these values are fading. However, there is still hope. Many youths across Malta and Gozo are joining NGOs and voluntary organisations, dedicating their time and energy to causes they believe in-whether environmental, social, or humanitarian. They understand that service is not about recognition but about impact.
Even in politics, we have witnessed a surge in youth involvement. Instead of simply being told to "go out and live life, travel, and make memories," many young individuals have chosen to take charge, to engage in politics, and to fight for a better future. The 2024 elections saw numerous young candidates stepping forward - not just to participate, but to win, to lead, and to serve. I was amongst them. And despite the cliche that youth should focus on themselves, these individuals chose to dedicate themselves to something greater. They chose to be counted, to serve, and to drive meaningful change - not just for themselves but for future generations.
Serving is not reserved for politicians or public figures. It is a mindset, a value that each of us can embody in our daily lives. Whether through small acts of kindness, volunteering, supporting a friend in need, or pursuing careers that create real impact, service gives meaning to our actions.
In an era obsessed with individual success, we must shift our mindset back to the power of community. To uplift one another. To see service not as an obligation, but as an opportunity. Imagine a society where people ask, "How can I help?" instead of "What's in it for me?" The change would be immeasurable.
As we celebrate achievements in music, leadership, and life, let's not forget that the greatest legacy is not measured by personal accolades, but by the impact we leave on those around us. True success is not about what we gain - it is about how we serve.
And yet, are we practicing what we preach? We live in a country where the government should exist to serve. Instead, it serves itself. And the few chosen ones in the core bosom of the party-in-power's top and restricted echelons. How can today's youth, or future generations, look up to those in power as role models when they refuse to lead by example? If our leaders fail to serve the people, it is up to us - the new generation - to redefine what leadership truly means.
And take action.
Nicole Portelli is a PN local councillor in Attard