More than 150 women of over 30 nationalities are joining forces to celebrate their diversity and shared values by raising funds for different charities through a number of events.
To raise funds, the Association of International Women in Malta holds two major fundraisers each year, the largest one being an annual international Christmas fair held at the InterContinental Hotel in St Julian’s.
A 49-year-old organisation, the AIWM focuses on extending its hands in friendship to women of all nationalities. As a registered voluntary organisation (VO/0325) with Malta’s Commissioner of Voluntary Organisations, it has another very important focus: philanthropy.
Over the past eight years, the association has raised several thousands of euros for local charities.
The charities which will be receiving funds raised during this year’s fair are: Ċentru Tbexbix, Dar Qalb ta’ Ġesù and the Malta Guide Dogs Foundation.
Ċentru Tbexbix is a centre for education and social service based in Cospicua, hosting a variety of projects and activities aimed at the all-round development of children, youths and women from the Cottonera area.
The programmes offered aim to provide opportunities for learning and personal growth so that people are encouraged and empowered to develop themselves and improve their socio-economic situation.
Dar Qalb ta’ Ġesù is a second stage shelter home supporting women/mothers and their children/adolescents who are placed there on referral by the Domestic Violence Unit of Appoġġ, after their initial stay at an emergency shelter.
The fair will include live music, Christmas carol singing, home-baked goods, original artisanal gifts, festive food and drink and lifestyle demonstrations.
The latter will include a session on gift wrapping with interior designer Enrica de Gabriele, a session on arranging holiday flowers with renowned florist Alistair Fenech of Alistair Floral Design, as well as sessions on creating holiday canapés and cocktails.
Children attending the Ċentru Tbexbix 2018 Summer Camp experience drew designs that have been printed on cards and tags, which will be sold at the fair.
The Christmas fair is being held at the InterContinental Hotel in St Julian’s tomorrow from noon to 6.30pm.