‘We’re lucky to be surrounded by the sea’ – JA Malta Foundation CEO Matthew Caruana

There is arguably nothing more synonymous with summer in Malta than the sea.

For those who love summer, it’s an obvious win, and for those who prefer the cooler months, the sea represents a chance for respite from the sweltering heat without having to be indoors under the air conditioner.

This is the case for JA Malta Foundation CEO Matthew Caruana, who does not shy away from a trip to the seaside as summer gets underway in order to make full use of Malta’s beautiful beaches.

In our latest instalment of this year’s MaltaCEOs.mt summer interview series, we spoke to Matthew to find out more about his summer plans.

While his days are often filled to the brim as he manages the entrepreneurship and leadership education organisation, Matthew still strikes a balance between life at work and moments to destress.

Are you a summer person, or do you prefer winter? Why?

I love the summer vibes in Malta and the longer days, but unfortunately it gets very hot, so I think I will have to choose winter.

Are you looking forward to this summer in particular? Why?

From a work perspective, we have a summer full of planning to prepare for a fantastic scholastic year ahead, and we are also launching new initiatives. I am very excited about that.

What’s your favourite thing to do in the summer season? Why?

A late evening aperitivo or BBQ near the sea. I think we are lucky to be surrounded by the sea and I enjoy good company there with a cool breeze savouring the outdoors during sunset.

Do you prefer going out or staying inside during the hotter months?

As I mentioned I do not like the heat, so I tend to stay indoors during the day and go out during sunset and evenings.

Will you be going abroad this summer? If yes, where to and why?

I have a trip to Turkey in July for the Junior Achievement European Competition for student and startup teams, and then I am travelling to Brazil in September for a break, where I will also visit my sister there.

What’s your dream summer destination? Why?

I do not have a specific summer destination, but I like going to Gozo and going to places near the sea if I have the opportunity to do so.

Companies are encouraged to invest to stay ahead of the curve. As a business leader, how will you be investing in yourself this summer?

I will be trying to focus on planning as I feel more prepared and at ease if the year is planned out as much as possible.

I will also be trying to take short breaks to be able to enjoy the outdoors, some evening walks and swimming. Apart from that I will be trying to take on a new course this summer to keep on learning.

From recharging your batteries to taking on a huge task – do you have any particular goals for the summer?

It is actually a bit of both. Summer for us is very important as it is the time where we plan the year and launch new initiatives. I believe that our summer is the foundation for the full year. However, since winter is very intense, I will try to take some breaks in summer. I will mainly be doing so by trying to take short breaks regularly rather than just one big holiday.