President George Abela, patron of the Malta Society of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce, recently presented the society’s Gold Medal for 2012 to author Trevor Zahra in recognition of his contribution to the Maltese literary scene.
The ceremony, held at the society’s premises at Palazzo de la Salle, Valletta, was compered by council member Dorothy Meli.
The evening featured readings of extracts from Zahra’s works by Graziella Galea, accompanied on the guitar by Vince Fabri, an appreciation of Zahra’s literary contribution by Mario Cassar and a personal recollection on the author by Richard Zahra.
In a brief introduction, society president Joseph Filletti also highlighted the literary contribution by past presidents of the society, including Gużé Aquilina and Gużé Galea, and mentioned various literary events the society had undertaken along the years. Special praise was also given to Zahra.
Following the presentation of the gold medal and certificate, Dr Abela concluded the event by making a short speech highlighting Zahra’s prolific career.