During 2015, MTA received close to 7000 nominations, 8 of whom eventually won an award in the different categories. During the award ceremony which took place on the 25th February 2016, the following nominees received a STAR Award consisting of a glass trophy, a certificate and a monetary gift:
1. Charles Abela – Restaurant Manager, The Victoria Hotel
2. Francis Apap – Taxi Driver
3. Anna Aquilina – Tourist Guide
4. Anthony Fenech – Coach Driver, Zarb Coaches
5. Paulina Kurowska – Diving Instructor, Paradise Diving Centre
6. Barbara Pucciarmati – Sales Representative, Tourist Information
7. Doreen Scicluna – Falconer, Malta Falconary Centre
8. Sonia Teuma – Front Office, Maria Giovanna Guest House, Gozo.
Another important award at the STAR Awards is the Hotel Worker of the Year where an outstanding employee is nominated by the hotel and a winner is chosen by the STAR committee. The latter has five members representing different tourism related organisations, namely FATTA, ITS, MAHE, MHRA and the MTA. This year's winner is Thesesa Taliana, Head Housekeeper at the Pergola Hotel & Spa who was described as honest, hardworking and friendly. On the night a special a recognition award was also given to Mr. Stuart Burke for his contribution to the tourism sector. The MTA CEO Mr. Paul Bugeja, referred to the importance of acknowledging that the tourism industry relies heavily on human resources and that these awards aim to recognise those people who are its foundation. He stated that every nomination is valuable, not only the winning ones, as each highlights the quality of service that the nominated individual offers. Mr. Bugeja concluded by saying that hospitality has always been a strong national trait and continues to be one of the most appreciated characteristic of a Malta holiday, as confirmed in all surveys conducted by MTA. The STAR Award provides an excellent opportunity for employees working in the tourism industry to be recognised for their hard work and dedication in providing an excellent service to tourists. Therefore we encourage more companies and employees to participate in this scheme with the aim of acknowledging the importance of maintaining high standards of service across this dynamic industry.
