Appreciation - Ebba von Fersen Balzan

Godfrey Baldacchino, Saviour Rizzo and Edward Zammit, write:

The news of the death of Ebba von Fersen Balzan has distraught many Maltese who benefited from the various educational programmes and activities sponsored or financed by the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES). Ebba, the officer in charge of this German foundation's operations in Malta for many years, had devoted a great amount of her resources, time, energy and interest to the organisation of these educational activities.

As ones who have collaborated in the organisation of these activities we can vouch for Ebba's considerable passion and enthusiasm, having spent many hours discussing with her innovative ways to make the structure of these programmes more appealing and effective.

But Ebba would not be simply remembered for her work connected with FES. One of her qualities which struck those who came in contact with her was her readiness to act graciously towards others, especially if they belonged to an underprivileged class. Lately, she has shown a keen sensibility to the plight of undocumented immigrants by encouraging the Centre of Labour Studies at the University of Malta to conduct a research project on this issue. In spite of her ill health, she recently accepted an invitation to visit the Open Centre at Marsa in connection with this project.

Ebba's warmth and understanding was not restricted to human beings. Her fondness for animals knew no bounds.

Indeed, one of her art exhibitions was exclusively dedicated to drawings of cats. Her dog was important enough to be the subject of an illustrated book. The cultural heritage of Malta, of which she was highly appreciative, also featured prominently in her art work. She has painted Malta and its patterns with an almost feverish obsession, wanting to capture the elusive imagery of its ancient temples, the spiral details of its seashells, the trapped treasure of its limestone fossils.

The staff at the Centre for Labour Studies at the University of Malta, who for the past two decades have collaborated with Ebba in the organisation of various educational activities, convey their deepest condolences to her husband Saviour, her relatives and many friends.

We assure them that she will persevere in our minds and hearts, with all her energy, creativity and genuine love for her adopted country.