Social Justice Week culminated on Friday evening with a ceremony at San Anton Palace in which three individuals and one NGO were recognised for their commitment and work in this sector.
The Social Justice Award 2026 was presented by the President of Malta to Fr Hilary Tagliafrerro, Kenneth Vella and Maria Vidal as well as to the Malta Red Cross Society, in recognition and appreciation of their commitment and work in support of social justice in Malta.
Myriam Spiteri Debono spoke about the importance of society caring for all individuals within it in order to be collectively strong and to ensure that no one is left behind.
To achieve this, the President explained, there must be greater awareness of the need for the society we live in to be inclusive, compassionate and supportive, so that every individual is given the space and opportunity needed to seize the opportunities available and reach the full potential of their aspirations and talents.
The evening brought to a close a week of activities organised for the eighth consecutive year by the Nationalist Party, on the initiative of Shadow Minister for Social and Affordable Housing, the Fight Against Poverty and Loneliness Ivan Bartolo.
Fr Hilary Tagliaferro, best known for his long-standing contribution to sports, especially football, is also the founder of the Millennium Chapel in Paceville, a unique oasis of peace in the heart of Malta’s entertainment district.
The chapel offers spiritual guidance, food banks, clothing banks and counseling services. It is run by a foundation of lay volunteers and forms part of the Augustinian Province in Malta.
Through the Millennium Chapel, Fr Hilary – a pioneer of social justice – assists more than 200 families, with a particular focus on supporting vulnerable groups, including the unemployed, refugees, and those struggling with poverty and inflation. He has been instrumental in the leadership and mission of the chapel, and his dedication to the community has earned him widespread recognition.
Dr Kenneth Vella was recognised for his commitment to supporting children who have fallen behind in their education. Photo: PNDr Kenneth Vella is a Head of School, sports journalist, and non-resident Ambassador to Finland and Estonia. He places great importance on education and the social wellbeing of every student under his responsibility. He is widely recognised for his commitment to supporting children who have fallen behind in their education.
Vella consistently promotes mental health and holistic education as key tools in the fight against poverty. Through sport, communication, quality of life initiatives and social wellbeing, he motivates students, particularly those most in need of support and guidance. He organises national conferences, in collaboration with various entities, focusing on mental health and other social issues of national importance.
As an ambassador, he also promotes Malta’s identity beyond its shores. The PN said Vella’s writings in the local press reflect how he is a clear example of social justice in practice, both through his professional work and as a role model who inspires others to follow in his footsteps.
Maria Vidal is best known for her work with young people involved in Special Olympics Malta. Photo: PNMaria Vidal is a volunteer and active supporter within the Maltese community who, over many years, has dedicated her time and energy to helping young people with disabilities develop self-confidence, social skills and a strong sense of belonging within society.
She is best known for her work with young people involved in Special Olympics Malta, particularly in the sport of boċċi and other social activities. Within the disability community, Maria is often described as a “second mother”, due to the emotional support, constant encouragement and genuine friendship she offers participants.
For more than 15 years, she has actively supported young people with disabilities attending Special Olympics training sessions, encouraging them to remain active in sport, especially boċċi – a highly inclusive and popular discipline. Beyond sporting activities, Maria also organises social outings and weekend activities that help these young people form new friendships and enjoy meaningful social interaction outside their homes.
Although her contribution is not formalised through a public role or official title, her long-standing personal commitment has made her a respected and valued figure within Malta’s disability support community.
Malta Red Cross Society director Paulette Fenech receiving the award. Photo: PNThe Malta Red Cross Society is a national humanitarian organisation operating in accordance with the fundamental principles of the Red Cross Movement: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality. As part of the global Red Cross Movement, the Society in Malta works to prevent and alleviate human suffering, protect life and health, and promote human dignity, particularly in times of emergencies and crises.
The Social Justice Award presented to this NGO was received by the Director General of the Malta Red Cross, Paulette Fenech.