Julian Fenech wins Pope John XXIII Award for Goodness
Sixth grader was nominated by his headmaster for his altruism with foreign school mates
Julian Fenech, a sixth year student at STC Annibale Preca Primary School in Lija, is the winner of the 55th edition of the Pope John XXIII Award for Goodness.
The Award, organised by Fr Dijonisju Mintoff and the Peace Laboratory, recognises the kindness and compassion of Julian, who makes positive gestures every day in aid of his fellow students, particularly towards one of the students.
Among other things, Julian was nominated for his commitment to include foreign students in his class in the daily life of the school, including by translating what's going on, and including them in games.
He was also recognised for his character, especially his efforts to avoid arguments and his commitment to cheering others.
Julian was nominated for the award by the head of school Lawrence Darmanin.
The Arhcbishop’s Curia said Julian was “an example of what it means to be kind hearted”.
“Always with a sweet smile on his face and a positive attitude, his kindness shines through in small everyday gestures — like sharing his things, offering words of encouragement, helping foreign students translate what is being said in Maltese into English during activities outside school, and bringing extra materials from home to share with those who might have forgotten theirs.”
Speaking at the award ceremony, president Myriam Spiteri Debono acknowledged the importance of fostering a sense of altruism in children, adding these values serve as the foundations of a stronger, more inclusive society.
She added that in this way, children recognise the value of each and every one of them, strengthen their self-confidence, and thus become an integral part and contribute to society.
Fr Dijonisju Mintoff, who has been organising this Prize for 55 years, spoke about how gestures like Julian's are important and that it is when one lives one's life with these values that society cherishes and lives in peace.