AX Group Working in Malta Inside stories giving back

Beyond the job: James Gabaretta’s Commitment to Giving Back

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For James Gabaretta, making a positive impact has never been limited to what happens during the working day. As AX Group’s ESG Analyst, sustainability forms part of his role, but his commitment to giving back goes well beyond his day-to-day responsibilities.

“I have always been passionate about sustainable development,” James explains. “Both individuals and businesses rely on the communities and environments around them. It only makes sense that we give something back to the systems that support us.”

That mindset has shaped the way he approaches both his career and his involvement in AX Group’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Through his role, James works closely on environmental, social and governance priorities across the organisation, helping identify opportunities where meaningful community initiatives can make a lasting difference. As a member of both the Group’s ESG and CSR Committees, he also plays an active part in supporting projects that strengthen AX Group’s connection with the wider community.

Among the various CSR initiatives he has been involved in, one experience stands out. A volunteering day at the Island Sanctuary gave AX Group employees the opportunity to support the dedicated team behind the charity, helping complete tasks that had been left pending due to limited volunteer resources. Alongside practical assistance and a financial donation, the experience had an impact that extended beyond the day itself.

“What made it especially meaningful was seeing some of our colleagues return to volunteer on their own afterwards,” James recalls. “Knowing that the experience inspired people to continue helping beyond the organised event was incredibly rewarding.”

For James, initiatives like these reflect something much bigger than a single volunteering day.

“Giving back is not only a responsibility, but also an opportunity to stay connected with the people and communities around us. It helps us better understand the challenges others face and reminds us that businesses can play an important role in creating positive change.”

For anyone looking to build a career with purpose, James believes it’s important to stay grounded while remaining passionate.

“Many people want to make a positive impact, and that’s something to be encouraged,” he says. “Real change doesn’t always happen overnight. Often, it’s the small, consistent actions that make the biggest difference. Stay curious, stay patient and keep your values at the centre of your decisions. You’ll find opportunities to make a difference wherever your career takes you.”

AX Group Working in Malta Inside stories

A Full Circle Moment: Jelica’s journey with AX

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At AX Group, we often say that career progression isn’t a straight line, and we mean it. For some, the journey starts fresh out of university, growing within a role or moving across departments over time. For others, the path takes a different turn. They join us, gain experience, explore new opportunities, and sometimes, even find their way back to us. And when they do, it’s always a pleasure to reconnect with people who return not only with new skills, but with greater confidence and perspective.

That was exactly the case with Jelica Milosevic, whose journey really reflects the value of experience gained along the way. Remember where it all began, Jelica shares: “I come from Serbia, and in 2015, I made a life-changing decision to move to Malta in search of new opportunities and a brighter future.”

Moving countries is never a small thing. It’s equal parts exciting and uncertain, especially when you’re building a life from scratch in a place where everything is unfamiliar. For Jelica, AX Group became her first foothold on the island.

“I began my journey as a housekeeping attendant at AX The Palace in Sliema,” she recalls. “It was my first experience living and working abroad, and it taught me a lot about discipline, independence, and the importance of a strong work ethic.” Values she says she has carried with her ever since.

After gaining that initial experience, Jelica felt ready to explore new paths. She moved into a role as a sales assistant, where she began to better understand her strengths and interests.

“During this time, I realised I wanted to grow professionally and develop new skills, so I started studying accounts,” she says. “With dedication and persistence, I was given the opportunity to move into an accounting role, which marked an important step forward in my career.”

After several years of building both professional and life experience, Jelica felt ready for yet a new challenge, and a fresh environment to match. As she began exploring new opportunities, she came across something unexpected. Not only did she find a role that aligned perfectly with her skills, but it was back with AX Group, where her journey had first begun, but this time within a different part of the business.

An opening within the accounts team at the Verdala Wellness Hotel in Rabat made that return possible. For us, it was just as rewarding to reconnect, seeing how much she had grown, and hearing how much her first role with AX had stayed with her. It felt like the right fit at the right time, on both sides.

Reflecting on this new chapter, Jelica shares: “I’m grateful not only for the opportunity to continue to grow professionally, but also for the amazing colleagues I work with. Every day is enjoyable and motivating, and it’s great to be part of such a professional environment.”

Looking at Jelica today, her journey is unquestionably a really admirable one. From a bold move to a new country, through housekeeping, sales, and into accounts, she has continued to build on persistence and a willingness to keep going, even when things weren’t plainsailing.

“Moving to Malta was not always easy,” she says, “but it has made me stronger and more determined, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come.” And something tells us, she’s only getting started.

From Intern to HR Coordinator: Alicia’s Story

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At AX Group, our people-first philosophy doesn’t stop at how we interact with guests and clients. It shapes how our teams are built, too. Nowhere is that more true than in Human Resources, where the role itself is built around supporting the people around you. So when the chance came to bring an intern into the department, the team knew we needed someone with a genuine warmth for people, and the instinct to put them first.

That person turned out to be Alicia Schembri, from AX Hotels, Valletta. From the start, she stood out for her enthusiasm and her natural ease with people. Even in those early days, it was clear she was ready to get involved and contribute.

Looking back, Alicia remembers how quickly she felt at home. “I was welcomed into a supportive team who always encouraged learning and career progression at the same time,” she says. “I was delighted when, just a couple of months later, I was offered a full-time position as an HR Coordinator.” Not a bad way to begin.

At AX Group, new recruits are never simply thrown in at the deep end. That’s why Alicia was immediately supported by a structured training programme, with clear timelines, practical guidance, and realistic targets along the way. The idea behind this was to build her confidence steadily and help her grow into the role at the right pace.

For Alicia, that structure made all the difference. “The programme allowed me to build on the skills I developed during my internship and take the next steps forward,” she explains. “I always felt comfortable asking questions or raising concerns, especially as I was still new to the role.”

That sense of support reflects a wider culture at AX, one where development is shaped by hands-on experience and guidance from those around you. As Alicia grew more confident, so did her responsibilities, becoming more involved in the day-to-day operations of the team.

“With each shift came new challenges,” she says, “but I saw it as a chance to step outside my comfort zone, build confidence, and strengthen my communication and organisation skills.”

Alicia has well and truly settled in, though her journey of progression and learning is still unfolding. Alongside her work at AX, she is studying towards completing her Master’s degree in Business Psychology and Human Resources, continuing to build on both her academic and professional growth.

“Knowing that the company encourages and supports career progression is a big motivator for me,” she says. “I also know that the more knowledge and skills I gain will open up many more opportunities across the Group.”

And for those just starting their own intern journeys, Alicia offers simple but valuable advice to share: “Be eager to learn, stay proactive, and make the most of every opportunity. And don’t be afraid to ask questions.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.

Managing Responsibility Across Careers: Insights from AX Hotels’ Josef Ciappara

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A Career Defined by Accountability

Responsibility has shaped every stage of Josef Ciappara’s career, influencing how he approaches leadership, risk, and decision-making. Rather than being tied to a job title, it is a mindset that has remained constant across high-pressure environments and hospitality operations.

Now Health and Safety Manager at AX Hotels, Qawra, Josef Ciappara’s career spans early roles in law enforcement, overseas missions, and senior positions in hospitality. Across these environments, accountability and considered decision-making have remained central to how he works. As he puts it, “Responsibility is not a title, it’s a mindset that stays with you when others rely on your decisions.”

Learning from High-Pressure Environments

Josef reflects on how working in high-pressure environments shaped his approach to leadership and decision-making. Exposure to different countries and cultures emphasised the importance of preparation, situational awareness, and understanding context. These early experiences reinforced a strong sense of responsibility, lessons that continue to influence how he approaches both life and work today. Joining AX Group: A New Perspective

Joining AX Group offered Josef a fresh perspective and a broader organisational view. He encountered a culture that challenges established thinking and recognises that safety and sustainability are not barriers, but essential components of quality and long-term performance.

Leadership engagement played a crucial role in this journey. Visible support for health and safety initiatives helped build momentum, foster trust, and create a shared sense of responsibility across teams.

Embracing International Standards and Management Frameworks

A key turning point in Josef’s professional development came in 2020, when he was introduced to internationally recognised standards, management frameworks, and sustainability certifications, including ISO and GSTC. As his understanding deepened, he recognised their role in strengthening existing processes, improving consistency, and supporting long-term sustainability when applied with clear purpose.

Responsibility in a Live Hospitality Environment

Hospitality presents unique operational challenges. Teams work under constant pressure to balance service delivery, guest satisfaction, and safety, while managing

time and resources effectively. Josef explains that meaningful change happens through collaboration, patience, and active listening—particularly to those closest to the work.

The introduction of sustainability brought additional operational and safety considerations. While principles such as waste reduction and energy efficiency are easy to support in theory, their successful implementation requires careful planning, clear communication, and ongoing monitoring in a live environment.

Achieving GSTC Certification

One of Josef’s defining experiences at AX Hotels was achieving GSTC certification for a major hotel operation. Although many systems were already in place, the certification process helped identify gaps and opportunities for improvement. “A special thanks are due to the teams involved for their continued support throughout this certification process,” Josef notes.

The experience reinforced the value of structured systems tested under real operational conditions, strengthening governance, consistency, and organisational resilience.

In hospitality, operating effectively means working under constant scrutiny, where decisions have immediate impact on people, operations, and reputation. For Josef, maintaining high standards depends on clarity, consistency, and the confidence to make informed decisions in complex, fast-moving environments.

This approach continues to guide how he supports teams across the organisation, ensuring that expectations are clear and that responsibility is shared rather than assumed. It is this everyday application of standards, rather than recognition alone, that defines sustainable performance in hospitality.

 

From Kitchen to Front Desk: Inside Stories from Rosselli Interns

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Internships at Rosselli – AX Privilege go beyond workplace exposure; they are an opportunity to develop real-world skills in a luxury setting, guided by a supportive and professional team. Take it from Brian Etiemble and Anna Kikkert, two recent interns who immersed themselves and share their experiences from the kitchen and front office departments.

Brian joined the Grain Street kitchen team, driven by his passion for gourmet cuisine and the stellar reputation of the Grain brand. “I wanted hands-on experience in a gourmet restaurant,” Brian shared. Working on starters and desserts, he mastered new techniques like creating herb oils and fine-tuned his organisation to keep up with the fast pace of service. Team feedback helped him improve his craft, from almond cake baking to perfecting meticulous techniques he aspires to use in future dishes. “The experience in a Michelin-starred kitchen reinforced my perfectionist approach and raised my standards,” he added.

Anna interned at the front office, becoming the first point of contact for guests. “From day one, I was welcomed into a warm, supportive environment. Colleagues quickly felt like friends,” she explained. Her role spanned check-ins, reservations, guest requests and cross-department coordination, boosting her confidence and communication skills. “This chapter will always be a source of pride and gratitude,” Anna said, reflecting on the teamwork and professionalism that made the experience memorable.

“Internships are an integral part of how we support and nurture future talent at AX Group,” said Ms. Borislava Bayyumi Head of Recruitment. “Our goal is to provide young professionals with meaningful, hands-on experiences that align with our standards of excellence and hospitality. Seeing interns like Brian and Anna thrive is a true testament to the culture we’ve built across the Group.”

From fine dining to front-of-house, internships at Rosselli offer a unique chance to grow, learn and thrive in a five-star environment. Brian and Anna’s stories reflect the passion and professionalism that define the Rosselli experience.

To explore internship opportunities and see all open roles across AX Group, visit: https://axcareersmalta.com/careers/

 

Monica Teuma: From a successful intern to a full-time employee

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Embarking on an internship is often seen as the first step into the professional world, a chance to gain hands-on experience and determine if a chosen career path is the right fit for you. Monica Teuma, who progressed from a successful intern to a full time Marketing Coordinator shares that “this step was more than just a trial run – it marked the beginning of a journey that eventually led to a full-time role within a company where I could further develop my skills”

Here’s more about Monica’s story of growth, learning, and advancement at AX Group.

 

Starting as an Intern

Monica comments that “AX Group, had always stood out to me as a company where I could truly develop my skills and build a meaningful career. When I was offered an internship with the Marketing & PR department, I knew it was an opportunity not to be missed. The chance to work with a well-established company was exciting, and I was eager to contribute and expand my knowledge in the field.”

The supportive environment at AX Group played a significant role in Monica’s development as an intern. “My colleagues were incredibly helpful, always ready to share their expertise and guide me through challenges.” The mentorship provided helped her grow her skills and confidence within the marketing field. “I learned to approach problems with a solution-oriented mindset and developed a keen eye for detail, which has served me well in my current role.” she adds.

 

The Transition to Full-time

“Shortly before completing my degree, I was approached by the Head of Department with an offer to join the team as a full-time employee. Receiving this offer was truly gratifying as it signified that my hard work had paid off and that I had made a positive impact during my internship. I was thrilled to accept the position, knowing that I would be working with a great team of people on exciting projects.”

 

In the Role of Marketing Coordinator

Monica explains that “today, as a Marketing Coordinator at AX Group, I draw on the experiences and skills I gained during my internship. The seamless transition from intern to full-time employee made it feel as though I had never left. I continue to be driven by the same interest and enthusiasm that initially attracted me to the company. My goal is to keep learning and growing, seizing every opportunity to enhance my skills and contribute to the success of the team.”

“Looking ahead, my aspirations are clear – to continue evolving within the Group, take on new challenges, and expand my knowledge and expertise in the field. My journey from an intern to a full-timer has been a rewarding experience and I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way. I look forward to what the future holds as I continue to build my career with AX Group.” Monica proudly adds.

On a final note, she mentions that “while the commute from Gozo to Malta can be demanding, the opportunity to work with AX Group makes it worthwhile. The positive work environment, my talented colleagues and opportunities are well worth the journey. Plus, being known as the ’Gozo expert’ around the office comes with its perks—though I might start charging for those insider tips soon!”