The President of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono, presented the Pope John XXIII Award for Kindness to 11-year-old Jayana Chircop, a student at Rabat Malta Primary School, part of St Nicholas College.
Jayana received this recognition for the kindness and support she shows every day towards her classmate, Cataleya Borg. Through her voluntary help, friendship, and care, Jayana helps Cataleya feel included, welcomed, and fully part of the class.
The award, organised by the Peace Lab led by Fr. Dionysius Mintoff OFM, honours children who regularly show acts of kindness towards others in their daily lives. During the ceremony, Jayana’s actions were described as a clear example of how small but sincere gestures can make a great difference in someone’s life.
Fr. Dionysius Mintoff highlighted the importance of listening to children and learning from their example of peace and selfless love. President Spiteri Debono also praised Jayana’s genuine kindness, saying that such simple acts of encouragement, friendship, inclusion, and support form the foundation of peace between people and nations.
The President also acknowledged Fr. Dionysius Mintoff’s 70 years of priestly service, marked by his dedication to inclusion, solidarity, and generosity. The ceremony was also attended by Jayana and Cataleya’s parents, teachers, school representatives, and government ministers.