BOV celebrates World Down Syndrome Day

Promoting an inclusive work environment

On World Down Syndrome Day, Bank of Valletta is proud to highlight the achievements of four employees with Down Syndrome who make valuable contributions to the Bank every day and have now become an integral part of the BOV family. Their dedication, hard work, and enthusiasm exemplify the Bank’s strong commitment to promoting inclusion at the workplace.

Today, we celebrate Christian Zammit, Maria Pia Saliba, Charline Magro, and Alec Falzon.

Christian Zammit was the first employee with Down Syndrome to join the bank—23 years ago. As a member of the Learning and Development Section, he provides support to his colleagues with a variety of tasks. “I manage the rooms (of the Learning & Development Centre), handle photocopying, binding, and more. I’ve built strong friendships here and love to share a laugh with my coworkers,” Christian shared.  In his colleagues’ words, Christian has made significant contributions to the Bank and to their personal growth, more than they have given him in return.

Maria Pia Saliba has been a valuable member of the Bank for seven years, contributing to the Customer Onboarding Unit. She asserts, “I am very pleased to work here. I love all the staff, and I am treated with respect by everyone. I enjoy working with them; I have found my second family here.”

Charline Magro works in the E-Banking section, where she assists her colleagues with tasks such as shredding documents, and she often delights them with sweet treats. “They all look forward to the biscuits,” she remarked. In addition to her work at BOV, Charline is actively involved in sports and has a passion for modelling. Proudly displaying her trophies, she shared that her most recent award was presented by the Fgura Local Council in recognition of her voluntary contributions to the community.

Alec Falzon joined the Personal Banking Channels Department two years ago. His colleagues describe him as energetic and hardworking, noting that he makes a positive difference in the workplace. He is an example of how his abilities and love for sports encourage others to improve their lives. Alec is also an athlete and was recently honoured with the Special Olympics Male Award during the 65th edition of the Għażliet Sportivi Nazzjonali, which took place earlier this month.

Ray Debattista, responsible for the Bank’s People and Culture function at Bank of Valletta, noted that “Bank of Valletta is one of the most welcoming companies for individuals with diverse needs. We focus on the person, rather than just their specific issues, because we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to feel included in society.” He urged other companies to follow the Bank’s example, highlighting that the contributions of people like Christian, Maria Pia, Charline, and Alec are more significant than they may realise.

On this occasion, employees at Bank of Valletta were invited to wear odd socks and take team photos.  

World Down Syndrome Day is observed annually on 21 March, to raise awareness about Down Syndrome. Officially recognised by the United Nations since 2012, this day encourages understanding and support for individuals with Down Syndrome. The date symbolises the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down Syndrome.