The Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee is proud to introduce In-Naħla Katerina, a brand-new mascot designed to engage and educate children about the importance of Malta’s biodiversity. As part of the project Maltese Honey Bee Education Through Songs and Rhymes, this lively character will help bring the world of the Maltese Honey Bee to life in schools across the country. The name Katerina, derived from Greek meaning “pure,” not only reflects the purity of the Maltese honey produced by this bee but also aligns with the Foundation’s goal of preserving and attaining pure specimens through back breeding of this unique subspecies.
The project, which is being coordinated by the Foundation, aims to teach young children about the significance of pollinators and national species through music. Three original songs are being created in collaboration with professionals in the field, each highlighting different aspects of the Maltese Honey Bee, its vital role in pollination, and its recent designation as a National Species. This initiative is made possible through the Small Initiatives Support Scheme (SIS), which is managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) and supported by the Ministry for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector (MIV).
In-Naħla Katerina: The Face of the Maltese Honey Bee
In-Naħla Katerina serves as the official mascot of Malta’s National Insect, the Maltese Honey Bee. Through music, videos, and interactive sessions, this character will become an icon for children in kindergarten and primary schools. She will feature prominently in the slideshow-style videos accompanying the songs, ensuring that children can visualise and connect with the bee that plays such a crucial role in Malta’s ecosystem.
The mascot has been designed to reflect the distinctive dark colouration characteristic of the endemic Maltese Honey Bee. By incorporating this unique trait into the design, the initiative aims to familiarise students with their National Insect and instil a sense of appreciation and pride in Malta’s natural heritage.
Bringing Learning to Life
Beyond just appearing in videos and songs, In-Naħla Katerina will also make real-life visits to schools. The mascot will embark on a nationwide school tour, bringing the message of conservation and biodiversity directly to young learners. Through these visits, children will have the opportunity to interact with the mascot, learn about the bee’s role in nature, and engage with the educational songs in a fun and memorable way.
The goal of this initiative is to ensure that children develop a lasting appreciation for pollinators and understand the importance of protecting them. By using music, storytelling, and interactive learning, the project aims to make environmental education accessible and enjoyable for young audiences.
A Trio of Songs for a Greater Cause
The three original songs being developed as part of the project will each focus on a different theme related to the Maltese Honey Bee:
- The Maltese Honey Bee – A song that introduces children to this remarkable insect, highlighting its unique characteristics and importance in Malta’s ecosystem.
- Pollinators – A lively tune that explores the essential role of bees and other pollinators in food production and environmental health.
- National Species – A celebratory song that emphasises the Maltese Honey Bee’s prestigious designation as a National Species and what this means for conservation efforts.
These songs will be accompanied by visually engaging slideshow videos, ensuring that children not only hear but also see and understand the significance of the messages being conveyed. Additionally, the songs will be in the Maltese language, serving as a fun and engaging way for children to learn and appreciate their native language while discovering the importance of pollinators.
A Future Full of Buzz
With the introduction of In-Naħla Katerina, the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee is taking a creative and engaging approach to education. By combining music, visual storytelling, and interactive experiences, this initiative is set to make a lasting impact on young minds, fostering a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens.
As In-Naħla Katerina begins her journey through schools, she will inspire children to appreciate and protect Malta’s natural heritage. With the power of song and the charm of a friendly mascot, the message of conservation will resonate far and wide, ensuring a brighter future for the Maltese Honey Bee and the biodiversity it helps sustain.
This project is being coordinated by the founders, Dylan Farrugia and Abner Joe Buttigieg.
To stay up to date with the Foundation’s work, we warmly invite you to join our WhatsApp community. The smooth functioning of our organisation relies on financial resources, and your support is essential. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a real difference in advancing our mission. You can help by joining the Foundation’s cause, become a supporter for just €10 a year or make a donation here: Support the Foundation.
Disclaimer: This project has been funded by the Small Initiatives Support Scheme (SIS) managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) supported by the Ministry for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector (MIV). This project/ publication reflects the views only of the author, and the MCVS cannot be held responsible for the content or any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
Small Initiatives Support Scheme 2025
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