Creativity, often associated solely with the arts, is in fact a broad and essential skill that touches every sector. It involves the ability to think outside the box, solve problems in innovative ways, and adapt to new challenges. In an increasingly automated and digitalised world, creativity remains one of the most uniquely human skills, enabling businesses and individuals to remain competitive and forward-thinking.
The day opened with a welcome panel featuring Ms. Mary Ann Cauchi, Director of Funding and Strategy at Arts Council Malta, Mr. Noel Debono, President of the Foundation for Human Resources Development, and Ms. Maggie Greyson, CEO and Chief Futurist of Futures Present. The speakers highlighted the importance of fostering creativity not only in the arts but in industries such as technology, business, and education.
Dr. Marianne Achiam, Associate Professor at the University of Copenhagen, delivered a thought-provoking presentation titled “Aesthetic and Material Approaches to Prompting Creativity.” Dr. Achiam explored how creativity can be sparked through hands-on activities and material engagement, encouraging professionals to integrate creative processes into their daily work routines. She emphasized that creativity isn’t just a talent, but a skill that can be developed and refined with the right mindset and environment.
Following this, Mr. Francis Ghersci, Head of Creative at Stargate Studios Malta, presented “Developing Your Creative Process.” He stressed the importance of fostering a collaborative and open environment where creativity can thrive. According to Mr. Francis Ghersci, providing space for experimentation and encouraging diverse perspectives are key to generating innovative solutions.
During his keynote, Mr. Ghersci also showcased a teaser from the short, animated film called ‘Dagger’, created at Stargate Studios Malta using Unreal Engine 5 and custom Metahumans. This adaptation of William Shakespeare's play Macbeth, directed and performed by Mr. Ghersci, serves as a local example of transmedia content—storytelling that unfolds across different types of media to create a richer narrative experience. The project highlights the importance of digital and creative skills, as well as technical skills within the film industry to bridge the worlds of film, video games and mixed reality.
Throughout the day, participants from various sectors engaged in roundtable discussions on how creativity can be embedded into their respective fields. Attendees shared insights on building workplaces that foster creativity, with many highlighting the importance of encouraging risk-taking, nurturing diverse teams, and creating flexible work environments that stimulate innovative thinking.
The event concluded with remarks from Dr. Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando, Executive Chairman of the National Skills Council, Permanent Secretary Mr Matthew Vella and Her Excellency Miriam Spiteri Debono, President of the Republic of Malta. Addresees reflected on the need to make creativity a core element of Malta’s workforce development strategies. They emphasized that creativity is a skill essential across all sectors and is key to maintaining Malta’s competitiveness, yet socially just, in an ever-evolving global economy.
By fostering a culture of creativity in the workplace, Malta can continue to thrive in a world where innovation and adaptability are more important than ever.
For more information on SkillScape Malta 2024 and future events, contact us at pr.nsc@gov.mt.
Download Maggie Greyson’s postcards, used for the Ice Breaker Session from here