About Us
Maltalink: Bridging Countries, Connecting People
Throughout history, Malta has been a precious gem sought after by various civilizations due to its strategic location. From the Romans who saw the archipelago as a focal point for trade between Europe and Africa, to the Ottomans who sought it as a Mediterranean stronghold, it has played a pivotal role in many momentous events.
More recently, during World War II, the heart of Mare Nostrum earned the title “Nurse of the Mediterranean”, and played a crucial role in the conflict. Malta has always been a place of connection, a tapestry of cultures. This conference celebrates that legacy, embodying Malta’s spirit as a hub where people from all corners of the world can come together, collaborate, and grow.
Join us at the Toastmasters District 109 Conference in Malta from the 15th to the 18th of May 2025, where we honour this tradition of connection, foster communication and promote human understanding.
Meet the Conference Team
Célin Talbot
Conference Chair
Legal Counsel, Malta
Information will be added soon!
Brigita Tomas
Registration Manager
Business Trainer, Slovenia
I am a business co-owner specializing in leadership and communication training. I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and collaborating with others. I also enjoy traveling, reading, organizing events, and embracing the little things that spark my days.
Keith Sheldrake
Finance Manager
Freelance Trainer and Facilitator, Italy
I teach business skills such as Business Finance analysis and public speaking in English to international companies. Seeing people develop is a passion both inside and outside Toastmasters. I also love walking my dog, skiing and dancing Salsa, Bachata and Lindy Hop.
Yafit Gabai
Education Manager
Customer Success Manager, Israel
I joined Toastmasters in 2021, served as club President and Area Director. I worked in hi-tech for many years as customer success manager and now shifting to giving workshops on Non-Violent Communication, a topic I’m passionate about. I love sports and I’m learning how to play the guitar.
Paola Perina
Public Relations Manager
Entrepreneur, Italy
I’m a business owner passionate about marketing and graphic design. I love to share my marketing experience and run training webinars. I also enjoy gourmet cuisine and renovating old houses to restore their charm. I am a Toastmaster since 2018.
Karina Castella
Planning Manager
Real Estate Developer, Switzerland
My expertise lies in the management of complex real estate projects, with a particular focus on sustainability and innovation. I enjoy leading large, interdisciplinary teams in a collaborative environment built on trust and integrity.
Katia Burdet
Program Quality Director (PQD)
Purchasing Manager, Italy
Katia is a Purchasing Manager and professional coach, active in Toastmasters since 2012. Currently serving as Program Quality Director (PQD) for District 109, she enjoys spending time with her daughters, roller skating, and swimming, along with her great passion for public speaking.
Nicholas Vella
Sponsorship Manager
IT Technical Project Manager, Malta
Nicholas Vella is an IT professional specializing in technical project management with over 10 years of experience. In addition to his professional achievements, Nicholas has been an active member of Toastmasters Malta for the past four years, currently serving as the club’s President. He cherishes Toastmasters’ values, which resonate deeply with his own.
Godela U. Bittcher
Volunteer Manager
Good Clinical Practice Specialist, Switzerland
I was teacher, then scientist and now a small company’s business owner. My enthusiasm is to train and guide clinical professionals in their quality-related goals. I love cooking for friends, reading and hiking a lot.
Graziella Spiteri
Social Program Manager
Full Stack Data Engineer, Malta
Graziella is a proud Maltese individual who finds solace and peace of mind by the sea. A lover of the outdoors and sunshine, she enjoys spending her free time working out at the gym, playing squash, and surrounding herself with family and friends. On the professional side, Graziella is a technical person who specializes in data projects.
Matt Podgorski
Technical Manager
Freelance Business Consultant & Project Manager, Malta
Toastmasters Malta since 2017, Matt has served as Club’s President (2019 – 2020) when he doubled membership to 42 in 2020. Building a New website with prospect’s tracking system and Social Media Automation. As Vice President of Education (2018 – 2019) he has supported the Integration of Malta as region into District D109.
Joseph Galea
Venue and Hospitality Manager
Software Solutions Consultant, Malta
I’m a curious learner passionate about diverse skills like digital marketing, automation, and learning new languages. As a technology consultant and enthusiast, I enjoy using innovation to solve everyday challenges.
Shamil Khaibullov
Website Manager
Web Developer, Georgia
I’m a web developer and former VP PR in my Toastmasters club, dedicated to crafting user-friendly online experiences. When I’m not working on websites, you’ll find me perfecting healthy dessert recipes or practicing my fifth language – almost always with a coffee in hand!