Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1537397
5 maltatoday | FRIDAY • 11 JULY 2025 NEWS Launch of the Youth4Entrepreneurship Gozo 2025: Digital Solutions for a Smarter Island THE Gozo Business Cham- ber, in collaboration with Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, the Mal- ta Digital Innovation Au- thority (MDIA), the Gozo Regional Development Authority (GRDA), Bank of Valletta, JA Malta Foun- dation, and Europe Direct Gozo, has announced the launch of the Youth4En- trepreneurship Gozo 2025 initiative focusing on the theme, "Digital Solutions for a Smarter Island." Now in its seventh edi- tion, the competition invites young people aged 16 to 35 to propose innovative, digi- tal-based solutions tailored to Gozo's specific needs. The initiative aims to empower youth to become active con- tributors to Gozo's devel- opment by addressing local challenges in areas such as energy efficiency, smart ag- riculture, digital commerce, waste management, sustain- able transport, and commu- nity engagement. A series of workshops and youth work sessions will be organised between July and September, guiding partic- ipants through idea devel- opment, financial planning, and pitching. Finalists will be selected through a one-to- one pitching round in Sep- tember, and four shortlisted projects will be presented at the final event on Friday, 21 November 2025, at the Kem- pinski Hotel, San Lawrenz. Applicants will have to sub- mit their idea by Saturday 13th September 2025 Participants will pitch their ideas in front of a panel of experts, with prizes award- ed to the top three propos- als. All four finalists will also receive mentorship to help develop their business con- cepts further by the MDIA. This year's contest high- lights the importance of digital innovation as a tool for sustainable growth, posi- tioning Gozo as a model for future-ready regional devel- opment. For more information and to apply, please visit www. gozobusinesschamber.org on the events section or contact info@gozobusiness- chamber.org. Exhibition and festival: 11th edition of Ceramic Arts of the Maltese Islands THE much-anticipated 11th edition of the 'Ceramic Arts of the Maltese Is- lands' exhibition is set to captivate art enthusiasts and visitors from July 30th to August 27th at the prestigious Citta- della Cultural Centre in Victoria, Gozo. Organized by the Gozo Cultural Direc- torate as part of this year's Gozo Ceram- ics Festival, this exhibition is the most comprehensive showcase of the ceramic art scene in the Maltese Islands, featur- ing over 30 exhibitors. The Exhibition An awe-inspiring display of creativity will traverse the entire spectrum of ce- ramic artistry, featuring both traditional and contemporary styles. The diversity in styles and techniques will showcase the wide range of possibilities within ceramics as an art form. Visitors can expect to see innovative techniques and hear the profound stories behind each masterpiece. This is the largest exclu- sively ceramic art exhibition held in Malta. The inauguration ceremony, under the esteemed patronage of Clint Camilleri, the hon. minister for Gozo, will take place on July 29th, marking the official commencement of this extraordinary festival. The Festival The Gozo Ceramics Festival will cele- brate artistic diversity on August 3rd at Xlendi Bay. Over 40 exhibitors, includ- ing young prodigies, artists with disabil- ities, elderly artists, and up-and-coming ceramists, will join long-established artists to make this festival a significant event for the ceramic art scene in Malta. This year's guest country is Cyprus, represented by Cypriot ceramic art- ists who will share their expertise with local artists and the public. German, world-renowned showman, and ce- ramic artist Thomas Benirschke will also participate, introducing his unique four-handed throwing technique to both adults and children. Visitors will have the opportunity to watch live demonstrations of various ceramic techniques, ask questions, and learn about the laborious processes in- volved in ceramic making. An exciting Japanese firing technique will also be demonstrated live, showcasing works taken out of the kiln red hot, treated, and cooled to be viewed finished on the spot. Hands-on activities designed specifi- cally for children will be a highlight, al- lowing kids to create their own ceramic pieces guided by experienced instruc- tors. Additionally, visitors can purchase ceramic artistic pieces directly from the makers. Entertainment will be provided by the Gozitan Seguna folk group and the Brass Tubes band, enhancing the overall ex- perience with captivating performances. Decorations and torchlights on the cliffs will add to the festive atmosphere of the evening. Free park-and-ride facilities from both entrances to Xlendi will be provided by beautiful TukTuks, adding a fun and practical element to the event. The festival proudly hosts Caritas Youths and the Santa Marta Resource Centre, welcoming families, tourists, and locals to explore the world of ceram- ics and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere filled with excitement and creativity.