The Academy of Givers held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 23 June, at The Phoenicia Malta, marking a celebration of progress, purpose, and community. Since its launch in 2022, the Academy has become a driving force in shaping the culture of giving in Malta, uniting businesses, NGOs, and philanthropists to foster collaboration, build meaningful partnerships, and deliver measurable social and environmental impact.
In just over two years of full operations, the Academy has grown to 72 active members, facilitated partnerships with more than 40 NGOs, and hosted landmark events such as its Annual Conference and Impact Fair, featuring high-profile speakers and the renowned NGO Pitch Fest. It also launched Malta's first Giving Report, providing groundbreaking insights into corporate and voluntary sector collaboration, and introduced the ACT for Impact mentorship programme to strengthen skills, knowledge exchange, and long-term partnerships.
The AGM gathered over 40 members and partners to reflect on these achievements and chart a bold course for the future. President Mark Weingard, in a virtual address, praised the Academy's success, calling the 2025 Conference "the best event achieved so far." Chairperson Nathan Farrugia presented the Annual Report, highlighting measurable impact and the growing engagement of the Academy's community. A key milestone of the gathering was the election of a new Board of Administrators for the 2025-2027 term, ushering in a new chapter of leadership and collaboration.
While thanking outgoing Board members Julian Dingli, Mandy Calleja and Roberta Lepre, The Academy of Givers announced that the ten Board members serving for the upcoming two years are Mark Weingard (Inspirasia Foundation); Nathan Farrugia (UP Your Level Ltd); Sarah Carbonaro (Gasan Foundation); Steve Cassar (FoundunFound); Claudia Taylor-East (SOS Malta); Joshua O'Cock (Growth Gurus); Teuta Bakalli (Cleantech360); Maria Galea (representing Marie Gallery 5); Sarah Young (Y Events Ltd); Sara Strijbosch-Ali (ARQ Group).
Looking ahead, the Academy is determined to scale up its impact by engaging more companies as members, collaborating with key stakeholders across Malta, and driving lobbying efforts to strengthen and enhance giving-back practices among businesses nationwide.
If you're interested in joining the first Community of Givers in Malta, please contact us at [email protected] or visit www.academyofgivers.org