On 20th February 2026, the Grant Awards Ceremony took place, during which the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee was once again honoured with funding from the Small Initiatives Support Scheme (SIS) after a successful competitive application. This initiative is managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) and supported by the Ministry for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector (MIV).
For 2026, the Foundation’s project is entitled “Katerina’s Storybook Adventure.” Building on the success of our SIS 2025 initiative, which brought the Maltese Honey Bee to life through the beloved mascot Katerina, this project represents the next stage of engagement with young audiences.
From Song to Storybook
Following the popularity of the 2025 song trilogy, SIS 2026 expands into print with a fully illustrated Maltese-language children’s book, Katerina’s Storybook Adventure. Aimed at children aged 7–8 years (Years 3–4), the book combines factual information about the Maltese Honey Bee with a fun, imaginative storyline to inspire a love of reading and an appreciation for Malta’s biodiversity.
The A5 softcover edition will feature 36 pages:
- 4 for an illustrated cover
- 16 pages of engaging narrative
- 16 pages of full-colour illustrations bringing Katerina’s adventures to life
A total of 2,000 copies will be printed and distributed free of charge to primary schools across Malta and Gozo. The book will serve as a lasting educational resource, supporting curriculum objectives in Maltese language, biodiversity awareness, and environmental education. Through storytelling and vivid illustrations, it encourages children to reflect on their own role in caring for the environment and protecting Malta’s fragile natural heritage.
Call for Quotes
Soon, the Foundation will make a call for quotes for the writing of the story, the illustrations, and the printing of the book, ensuring that the project is completed to high creative and production standards.
Launch Events and Community Engagement
Representing the Foundation at the Grant Awards Ceremony, volunteer Sairita Cassar received the grant on its behalf.
The grants to voluntary organisations were presented by the Minister for Inclusion and Voluntary Organisations, Julia Farrugia, in the presence of MCVS Chairperson Gertrude Buttigieg and Chief Executive Mauro Pace Parascandalo. Minister Farrugia explained that this one million euro investment demonstrates the Government’s vision to place the community at the centre of its policy.
“Volunteering is not just an act of generosity, but a fundamental pillar of a just and inclusive society. Through the work of the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector, we are ensuring that public resources reach those who truly make a difference in people’s lives,” Minister Farrugia said.
She added that these funds strengthen voluntary organisations while also being invested directly in families, young people, the elderly, and the most vulnerable members of society.
“We believe in a Malta where no one is left behind and where our communities are provided with the tools and support to innovate and respond to today’s challenges. The fact that more than 930 projects have been implemented so far, with an investment of almost €10 million, clearly demonstrates our political will to further strengthen this sector. We will continue working to create more opportunities, greater transparency, and enhanced sustainability for voluntary organisations, because we believe that a strong community starts with a strong voluntary sector,” concluded Minister Farrugia.
Chief Executive Mauro Pace Parascandalo said it is satisfying to see new projects emerging each year in different communities, all aimed at making a positive impact across the voluntary sector.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for Inclusion and Voluntary Organisations, Anthony Gatt, and the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations, Jesmond Saliba, were also present.
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.
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