Complete vs. Compete, should be the business approach
By Sherif Attar
In a world of ever-changing ambiguity and uncertainty, executives have to face two challenges: excellent performance and people development. Where many managers think those endeavours are “competing”, this author believes they are “completing”. GET DOWN TO BUSINESS argues.
Over the past months, the Valletta Cultural Agency strengthened the artistic component of its programme through partnerships and collaborations with various local public organisations and international cultural bodies, most notably the eminent Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, one of the most prestigious and oldest musical institutions in the world.
Since its inception as the foundation responsible for implementing the European Capital of Culture initiative in Valletta, Malta in 2018, the Valletta Cultural Agency (VCA) has sought to strengthen the capital’s cultural life through the creation of an annual cultural programme, developed in collaboration with artists, with other government institutions and private entities. These range from events for moderately sized audiences such as outdoor music performances and art exhibitions, to mass events such as the annual New Year’s Eve national celebrations and the bi-annual Valletta Pageant of the Seas.
One of the biggest projects the VCA has undertaken is the regeneration of a historic building and its surrounding area in an undervalued part of Malta’s capital, which had been left in a state of neglect for long. The building was a finalist and winner of several awards.
It has been transformed into a new cultural and community space dedicated to design where public entities and voluntary organisations can learn together and share knowledge. This project also offers a roof garden, the first of its kind in the Maltese Islands.
“It is important to underline that the regeneration of this area goes beyond the building itself. It is testament to the significant role culture can play in transforming the neighbourhoods,” the CEO of VCA, Catherine Tabone, said.
“The part the VCA plays in the country’s arts and culture scene is indeed remarkable, embracing the exciting possibilities of the future,” she said. “while the challenges of the post-pandemic era are significant, the prospect of brighter days for the arts and culture are just as great.”
The strategy for VCA is to forge more partnerships and collaborations in the future.
My efforts are paired with each and every individual employee’s strengths, input, contributions and ongoing commitment to the Agency’s vision for Valletta. This ensures that we can approach the years ahead confident in our ability to achieve more,” Catherine added. “We want to make sure that every single resident and visitor to Valletta continues to have access to a remarkable range of high-quality cultural experiences.” “I believe that if the Covid-19 pandemic has taught us anything, it is that we cannot live without culture and creativity.”
Many people around the world resorted to music, the arts and culture to help them get through the on-and-off lockdown and stay connected.
“Isn’t it fascinating how just listening to your favourite music can turn a bad day around? These turbulent times seem to be over and now that Malta has returned to complete normality, the yearning desire for cultural joy has never been more evident,” Catherine said.
“VCA remains committed to continue providing the public with high-quality cultural events, because we believe in the power of arts and culture in binding together individuals and societies.
“Many thought that the world of arts and culture would never be the same after the pandemic. The truth is that art and culturehelped us emerge from this trauma and eventually injected life back in our cities, streets, theatres and museums,” she continued.
“This is why I believe more systems that sustain this sector need to be created. Like any other sector or profession, art, culture and creativity face so many challenges, and it is a duty to ensure that artists and producers are adequately supported.”
Arts, culture, and creativity can help us shape a better and a healthier future; this is why VCA remains committed to its belief in the role they play in building a more just, open-minded and human world.
“As the world becomes increasingly connected, it is crucial that we continue to build on the power of collaboration,” she explained. “When cultural entities work closely with artists and with their counterparts, the events become richer, relevant, and deliver greater benefits.”
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Sherif Attar, an independent management consultant/trainer and organisation development authority, delivers seminars in the US, Europe, Middle East and the Far East.
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