On 25th October, Malta Enterprise will celebrate its 5th Startup Festival with a finale unlike any other – a dazzling blend of innovation, culture, and compassion. The curtain will fall not on a conference stage, but on a runway, as internationally acclaimed designers Charles & Ron present their latest collection, fresh from New York Fashion Week.
Every year, Malta Enterprise dedicates its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative to a cause that matters, from concerts for peace and mental health awareness, to events supporting children in need. But this year is particularly special. For the first time, this CSR event will serve as the official closing of the Startup Festival, marking its fifth anniversary with a statement of solidarity and purpose.
“The Startup Festival has grown into Malta’s largest celebration of entrepreneurship, showcasing technology, gaming, fintech, and biotech, but its fifth anniversary demanded something truly unique,” explained a Malta Enterprise spokesperson. “Rather than ending with a closing speech, we wanted a closing statement. And what better way than through creativity, fashion, and a cause that matters deeply to our community.”
From New York to Malta
For Charles & Ron, this is more than a collection. It is a story told through fabric and colour, beginning in fiery red for urgency and passion, moving through golden sand, sky blue, and sea foam, and culminating in pure white for clarity and peace.
The duo premiered this work at New York Fashion Week in September to international acclaim. Now, they will bring it home to Malta for one night only, unveiling additional looks created especially for the CSR finale. Accessories designed in-house add bold sculptural layers, ensuring that each piece is unmistakably Charles & Ron.
“New York was about placing Malta on the global stage,” said Ron, “but Malta is where our story lives. This show is about giving back.”
In aid of Victim Support Malta
That giving back comes in the form of solidarity with Victim Support Malta (VSM), the NGO providing free and professional support to survivors of crime, abuse, and trauma. Since 2008, VSM has been a lifeline for hundreds of people in crisis, offering therapy, counselling, legal assistance, and psychiatric care. This year’s proceeds will go directly toward expanding their services, with a special focus on children and teenagers who need safe spaces and specialised support.
For many survivors, VSM represents the first step towards reclaiming dignity and hope. One woman, a survivor of domestic violence, explained how difficult it was to ask for help: “Reaching out for help is the hardest step. I thought I should be strong enough to face it alone, but abuse is complex. VSM supported me without judgement, helping me realise I am strong, worthy, and deserving. Thanks to them, I’m beginning to believe it.”
Her experience is echoed by others, like Debra, a CVSA client, who described the sense of relief she felt upon entering VSM’s doors: “From the moment I walked through the door, I felt safeness, kindness and understanding. The support I received has changed my life. My journey is still ongoing, but thanks to VSM, I am a very different person today.”
Together, these voices illustrate why Malta Enterprise has chosen VSM as the beneficiary of this year’s CSR initiative — because behind every intervention is a story of resilience, and behind every story is a life worth rebuilding.
A night of purpose
Held at Montekristo Estate, the event promises to be Malta’s most powerful fashion night of the year. Guests can expect glamour, music, and solidarity in equal measure. Tickets are selling fast, with VIP guests guaranteed front row seats and exclusive Charles & Ron gifts.
For Malta Enterprise, it is a fitting finale to Startup Week – a reminder that innovation is not just about business growth, but about community impact. This event is a celebration of resilience, renewal, and solidarity, stitched into every seam.
Tickets can be purchased from Rebirth | ShowsHappening
