The Malta Entertainment Industry and Arts Association (MEIA) on Thursday announced that Maria Galea has been named President of the association, succeeding Howard Keith Debono.

Ms Galea is renowned in the Maltese visual arts scene as a distinguished cultural and art professional, and brings valuable experience and insight to the prestigious role at the MEIA. She is the Founder of online visual arts network ARTZ ID and is also Artistic Director at Marie Gallery 5.

Since MEIA’s inception back in 2020, she has played an important role, initially as Chair of the Visual Arts subcommittee, and then elected as Vice President in the last General Meeting. Her presidency marks a period of significant growth and solid foundation-building within the association.

The MEIA stands a non-profit organisation dedicated to championing the rights, growth, and development of Malta’s entertainment and arts industry. Its mission is to unite stakeholders within the industry and to cultivate interest across its diverse sectors.

The association thanked Mr Debono for his “visionary leadership and unwavering commitment” over his time at the helm, with these qualities being vital to MEIA’s establishment and growth.

Commenting on her new role, Ms Galea said: “The creative sectors are not only unique, but also vital to our society, holding boundless potential.”

“I firmly believe in positioning these sectors on equal footing with other industries, recognising their vast socio-economic impact. We persist in our efforts to establish robust foundations and infrastructure, ensuring efficiency, sustainability, accessibility, and raising awareness of the arts and entertainment sectors, all while championing our members,” she remarked.

She proceeded to call upon stakeholders, both within and outside the arts and entertainment sectors, to join the MEIA in its efforts to cultivate a “robust and dynamic creative industry that stands on equal footing with other prominent sectors”.

Ms Galea stated that both Mr Debono and Toni Attard’s leadership as President and Vice President have been “instrumental” in helping give the creative sector a “voice”. They have set a “much-needed solid foundation for the creative community”, she remarked, saying that the whole sector is grateful for their work.

“I am privileged to work with the exceptional professionals within our executive and advisory committees. Together, we aim to further this legacy, fostering a sustainable creative industry and championing our artistic community,” she affirmed.

Ms Galea also took to social media to add further comments, stating that it is an “immense honour” for her to be entrusted with the role.

“Starting this journey within MEIA three years ago has opened up a new door for me and for the entire industry,” she said.

“I’ve always championed collective action, focusing on the bigger picture and laying the foundations for future generations. However, witnessing these ideals materialise has been both a challenging path for the association, but also extremely fulfilling, and a form of hope for many, making every effort worthwhile,” she continued.

Ms Galea highlighted that “challenges often serve as catalysts for opportunities”, and therefore the MEIA has a considerable journey ahead in order for the creative industry to be recognised at par with other industries.