A New Chapter Begins: Academy of Givers Elects New Board at Inspiring 2025 AGM

The Academy of Givers’ Annual General Meeting (AGM), held on June 23rd, 2025, at The Phoenicia Malta, was more than a formal gathering—it was a celebration of progress, purpose, and community. Over 40 dedicated members and partners came together to reflect on a year of impactful initiatives and to chart a bold course for the future.

The AGM opened with a virtual address by President Mark Weingard, who expressed his satisfaction with the Academy’s achievements, citing the 2025 Conference as “the best event achieved so far.” He expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming chapter as a new Board of Administrators was set to be elected.

Chairperson Nathan Farrugia presented the Annual Report of the past year, highlighting key milestones from 2024. From measurable impact to growing community engagement, his report captured the spirit of the Academy’s work over the past year:

• 72 active members joining the cause;
• Hosting 6 Members Meetings;
• Showcasing 38 NGOs at the Impact Fair 2024;
• Launching the first Giving Report Malta during the 2024 Annual Conference;
• Maintaining an engaging website and active committee.

Notable progress in 2025 was also shared, such as:

• 3 Members Meetings held to date;
• 35 NGOs showcased at Impact Fair 2025;
• Launch of the second Giving Report Malta;
• The launch of the ACT for Impact Mentorship Programme connecting 7 mentors with 10 NGOs;
• Release of the first Impact Report, outlining achievements since the Academy’s inception.

A key highlight of the AGM was the election of a new Board of Administrators for the 2025–2027 term. Ten Board Members were confirmed via live voting, and we look forward to working with them for this new chapter, starting from July 1^st and continuing for two years:

• Mark Weingard – Inspirasia Foundation
• Nathan Farrugia – UP Ltd
• Sarah Carbonaro – Gasan Foundation
• Steve Cassar – Fundunfund
• Claudia Taylor-East – SOS Malta
• Josh O’Cock – Growth Gurus
• Teuta Bakalli – Cleantech360
• Maria Galea – Marie Gallery 5
• Sarah Young – Y Events Ltd
• Sara Strijbosch-Ali – ARQ Group

A heartfelt thank you to our outgoing Board members – Julian Dingli, Mandy Calleja and Roberta Lepre – for their dedication and invaluable contributions over the past years. Your efforts have played a key role in driving our mission.

The AGM concluded with a constructive discussion, inviting members’ suggestions for 2025–2026. Topics raised included:

• Expanding mentorship opportunities for businesses;
• Increasing the Academy’s presence in Gozo;
• Encouraging cross-support among member organisations;
• Boosting membership through personal referrals, a community-driven approach that is key to sustaining and expanding the Academy’s impact.

 Interested in joining our community and make an impact together? Visit our website or contact us at info@academyofgivers.org