The Gozo Business Chamber organised the seminar and dialogue “Managing Workforce Diversity” at Dar Manresa, bringing together employers, representatives of public entities, civil society organisations, community leaders, and representatives of different national communities residing in Gozo.
Organised in collaboration with CORE Platform, Caritas Gozo, the Jesuit Refugee Service (Malta), EUROPE DIRECT Gozo, and Bank of Valletta, the seminar sought to provide practical tools and encourage constructive dialogue on one of the most significant realities facing businesses today: the management of an increasingly diverse workforce.
In his opening address, Michael Galea, President of the Gozo Business Chamber, highlighted how Gozo’s labour market has evolved considerably in recent years. He noted that workforce diversity has become a reality across many sectors of the economy and emphasised that businesses must be equipped not only to address the challenges that may arise, but also to harness the opportunities that diversity can bring. He stressed that communication, mutual understanding, and inclusion are essential ingredients for productive workplaces and sustainable economic growth.
The seminar featured a presentation by Juergen Attard, Senior Manager at the Gozo Regional Development Authority, who presented findings from the Gozo Business Sentiment Survey, a joint initiative of the Gozo Business Chamber and the Gozo Regional Development Authority. The findings demonstrated the increasing importance of non-local workers within Gozo’s economy and highlighted both the opportunities and challenges associated with managing a diverse workforce.
Participants also heard from Julian Dingli, Chief Executive Officer of CORE Platform, who shared practical tools and approaches that employers and managers can adopt to improve communication, strengthen workplace relationships, and foster more inclusive working environments.
The event also included introductory interventions by Fr Jimmy Xerri, Director of Caritas Gozo, and Dr Katrine Camilleri, Director of the Jesuit Refugee Service (Malta), both of whom provided valuable perspectives drawn from their extensive work with individuals and communities from different cultural backgrounds.
Following the presentations, participants took part in three round table discussions moderated by Dr Josianne Cutajar, member of the Council of the Gozo Business Chamber, Dr Stanley Portelli on behalf of Diakonia, and Alvin Scicluna on behalf of Caritas. The discussions focused on communication across cultures, workplace relationships, inclusion, and the challenges and opportunities arising from workforce diversity.
A number of important themes emerged from the discussions, including the need to address language barriers, the importance of cultural understanding, the value of engaging community leaders when challenges arise, and the positive contribution that diversity can bring to organisations when supported through effective communication and inclusive management practices.
The Gozo Business Chamber would like to thank all speakers, moderators, participants, and partner organisations who contributed to the success of this initiative. Particular appreciation is extended to the Malta Police Force Community and Cohesion Team, Mgr John Muscat, and the various community leaders who participated and contributed actively to the discussions.
The Chamber remains committed to supporting employers in navigating the realities of today’s labour market and to fostering dialogue that strengthens both workplaces and the wider community.
Downloads:
📄 Download Michael Galea’s Opening Address
📊 Download Juergen Attard’s Presentation – Workforce Diversity and Inclusion in Gozo: Insights from the Gozo Business Sentiment Survey
🎤 Download Julian Dingli’s Presentation– Managing Workforce Diversity: Practical Tools for Managers in Malta
📄 Download Agenda
