“Ukrainian children, reluctant to leave after a week-long stay in Malta … a powerful solidarity initiative by the Association of Local Councils”

“The children have so little to look forward to amidst the hardships of war. Some have lost their fathers, who were serving as soldiers in the Ukrainian forces. This is why they were so reluctant to leave our country, which moved me deeply,” remarked Mario Fava, President of the Association of Local Councils, reflecting on the summer camp organized in collaboration with various entities for a group of Ukrainian children and youth aged 9 to 14.

Beyond the joy of being far from the looming dangers of war, the children were also immersed in Maltese culture and everyday life.

Mr. Fava, leveraging his international connections through his roles in European regional organizations, had discussed with Ukrainian counterparts the possibility of offering these children, who have long been deprived of life’s simple joys, a chance to experience something new. Children living in constant fear and uncertainty embraced this opportunity with open arms. The idea was met with enthusiasm, and ultimately, these children were able to enjoy the warmth and beauty of a typical Maltese summer.”

Fava explained that, together with a dedicated team, they organized a week filled with engaging activities, where the children’s joyful expressions made it clear just how much they were enjoying themselves. Highlights of the week included a train tour through the historic Cottonera cities, a hands-on visit to Mdina Glass where the children crafted their own glass pieces, and a stop at MCAST, which was hosting another summer camp.

The program also featured trips to Gozo, particularly to its capital, Victoria, and a series of culinary workshops where the children got the chance to make their own pizzas from scratch. They explored major shopping districts in Kalkara, Sliema, and St. Julian’s, relishing the experience of window shopping, making small purchases, and playing in game rooms equipped with the latest technological entertainment.

Back in Ukraine, stores of this kind remain closed, with only essential shops in operation. The vibrant atmosphere, sunny weather, and colorful displays in Maltese outlets left a lasting impression on the children, many of whom were hesitant to leave this new, bright world they had discovered.

“The most moving moment for me was when we took the children swimming, both in the stunning sea of our country and in the pool of a local farmhouse. Their joy was overwhelming, as some hadn’t had the opportunity to swim in nearly three years due to Russian forces blocking access to the coastline. I’ll never forget their smiles or the heartfelt gratitude they showed for the experiences we organized. Our sea, with its incredible beauty, was a perfect backdrop as the children not only swam but also dived underwater, marvelling at the fish. Such a simple pleasure, yet one they had long been deprived of.”

He shared how deeply he was impacted by this week-long experience, especially seeing the Ukrainian children’s reluctance to return home. Although they had arrived without their parents, they found a sense of paradise here, a world far removed from the horrors they’ve endured and continue to face. Importantly, contact with their parents was maintained throughout the trip, and the parents expressed deep gratitude for the care and joy provided to their children.”

Mario Fava expressed his commitment to organizing similar initiatives in the future, believing they have a meaningful impact on those who are suffering deeply.

“I had the chance to speak with Prime Minister Robert Abela, who also met the children during their visit. While interacting with them, he guided them on a tour of the Auberge de Castille, sharing the rich history of the building.”

“The Prime Minister reassured me of the importance of these kinds of activities, emphasizing how they can truly make a difference in people’s lives. My aim is to plan something similar around Christmas, a time that holds special significance worldwide. Although there are still many details to work out, I find immense satisfaction in knowing I’ve helped bring smiles to those who have been deprived of joy and the sense of normalcy that we Maltese so often take for granted.”