Arthur Demarco, a twenty six year old from Birgu, was declared as ambassador for Maltese and Gozitan youngsters, during a special event organised in Gozo by the OASI Foundation. This honor is conferred annually during a ceremony which aims to acknowledge the significant contribution of youths in the voluntary sector and also to project a positive image of the young generation of today.

The OASI Foundation has been organising The Young Person of the Year Award for the past sixteen years, accepting nominations for young persons aged between sixteen and twenty nine. This year there was a total of nine eligible nominations who were all awarded a trophy as a sign of appreciation for their voluntary endeavours within various Maltese and Gozitan groups. Arthur Demarco was nominated by the Birgu Local Council for his significant work in various groups within this locality.

The OASI Foundation strives to help those who fall victims of abuse such as drugs and alcohol. However this foundation's work also aims to create preventive education both within school environments as well as other young and adult spheres. The Foundation depends also on donations and voluntary work in order to continue in its worthy endeavours for the benefit of Maltese and Gozitan society.

The Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono, presided over a special ceremony during which the Foundation's founder director, Rev. Manwel Cordina, also addressed those present. He spoke about the continuous challenges we have to overcome in order to be able to see our young generation from a real and positive perspective thus defeating negativism. Fr Cordina also said that education is a good thing in itself, however, the altruistic sense forthcoming from voluntary work instills a sense of responsibility in youths, making them valid members of today's society as well that of the future.

The Minister for Gozo congratulated the finalists for this year's award, whilst also referring to the hundreds of young people who are involved in various aspects of voluntary work on our islands. This results in a most valid contribution for the benefit of society. The Minister also praised the commitment shown by all those involved within the OASI Foundation, through whose work amongst victims as well as through their preventive educational programmes, are living up to the Foundation's motto that 'life is beautiful'.