Advisory Group
2025 marks a new chapter for Refugee Week Malta with the launch of a dedicated Advisory Group—a model of co-creation, care, and community.
Born from a commitment to think and build together, this model is more than a planning tool; it’s a practice of community. It reflects our belief that Refugee Week should not be created for people, but with them. It is a space where people from different backgrounds—especially those with lived experience of displacement—come together to shape a festival that is grounded in shared humanity, belonging, and cultural sensitivity.
The Advisory Group is a collective of people from asylum-seeking communities and local organizations working in migration, arts, and culture. Through a series of in-person gatherings, together we've guided the development of the festival from the inside out: from defining the theme and reviewing artist proposals, to shaping the visual identity, and reaching out to communities in ways that are meaningful and inclusive.
At its core, this is a community-led model of cultural democracy—where ownership is shared, dialogue is prioritized, and multiple voices are not only welcomed, but essential.
2025 was the first year; and we hope to build on this in the coming years!
This model builds bridges. It creates room for disagreement, difference, and discovery. It invites openness, care, and commitment. And most importantly, it ensures that Refugee Week Malta remains a festival by the people, for the people. Through this collective approach, we are not only organizing a festival—we are cultivating a culture. One that values listening. One that encourages learning. One that practices the kind of community we want to see in the world.
The Advisory Group for 2025 are:
Cedric Farrugia, Dollarino Dibassey, Ebtisam Oulaiwi, Emmanuel Agustine, Francesca Zammit, Maria Eileen Fsadni, Periklis Chatzigiamis, Precious Orogun, Sarah Chircop, and Zofia Stelmaszczyk.
The Advisory Group for 2025 is supported by APS Bank