Investing in young people
The future of nature conservation lies in the hands of young people. That is why BirdLife Malta invests heavily in engaging and helping them become the informed leaders of tomorrow.
The organisation offers opportunities for different age groups. For young adults, FALKO brings together people from 18 years old upwards who share a passion for nature and environmental protection. It provides a space where they can develop ideas, gain experience and take action for the environment.
A legacy of action
In the late 1980s a group of BirdLife Malta youths decided they wanted a greater say in organising activities. They formed a working group and began planning hikes, birdwatching events, helping out at nature reserves, barbecues, and organising camps in Kemmuna and Buskett. They issued their own newsletter and in 1992 the group was named FALKO. One of FALKO's most notable achievements was the creation of the first international Raptor Camp. The initiative attracted visitors to Malta to watch migrating birds of prey but also keeping on the look-out for hunters breaking the law. For six years, FALKO members helped lead the Raptor Camps and made a tangible contribution to the protection of migratory birds.
In 2004, they launched another activity that remains popular today: BirdLife Malta's first boat trip observing shearwaters at sea.
Reflecting on those years, former FALKO coordinator Justin Vassallo said "The experiences were memorable, but what really stayed with each and every FALKO member are friendships and character."
Building skills for the future
Today, joining FALKO means becoming part of a community committed to protecting Malta's natural environment.
Members receive support from BirdLife Malta to turn their ideas into conservation projects. Along the way, they develop valuable skills in leadership, communication, public engagement and digital media.
These experiences can strengthen career prospects in an increasingly competitive conservation sector. Many former FALKO members have gone on to become NGO leaders, senior wildlife crime enforcement managers and BirdLife Malta council members.
Opportunities beyond Malta
Keeping young adults engaged can be challenging. Many are balancing studies, work and personal development. To support them, BirdLife Malta provides opportunities for personal and educational growth, through EU-funded Erasmus+ projects.
In February, a FALKO representative travelled to Turkey for a two-week project focused on raising awareness about the European Green Deal. The project addressed a knowledge gap, as research shows that 82% of young Europeans are unfamiliar with the initiative.
In September, another FALKO member will participate in Wave of Change, an Erasmus+ project on the Greek island of Milos. The programme explores climate change through workshops and non-formal education while promoting sustainable lifestyles and international cooperation.
Learning through events
BirdLife Malta also organises monthly events tailored specifically for young adults aged 18 to 30.
In April, FALKO organised a pub quiz at The Hatter in Gzira as part of the outreach activities linked to the Erasmus+ project in Turkey. Participants tested their knowledge of European environmental policies in an informal setting. They learned, among other things, that the European Green Deal aims to make Europe the world's first climate-neutral continent by 2050.
In May, BirdLife Malta celebrate European Youth Week 2026 with Kayak, Clean & Connect. Twenty-two participants joined a day of activities focused on nature, conservation and community building. The programme included kayaking and birdwatching at Ġnejna Bay, a beach clean-up, a picnic and an online nature photography competition. The event aimed to raise awareness about marine litter and encouraged young people to take an active role in protecting the environment.
Making connections
In June, FALKO held its first social event, Hot Bird Summer, in collaboration with Young Friends of the Earth at their office in Floriana. More than 20 young people attended the gathering, creating meaningful face-to-face connections in an age increasingly dominated by social media. The strong turnout at recent events is good indication that many young Maltese remain passionate about environmental issues and eager to make a difference.
Join FALKO
BirdLife Malta remains committed to providing young people with a platform to share their ideas and the support needed to bring them to life. If you're aged 18-30, interested in nature and conservation, and want to make your voice heard, FALKO would love to hear from you.
For more information, contact [email protected]
Silvia Viviani is a Public Engagement Assistant with BirdLife Malta