Programm Tbissima
A licensed non-formal education program
Programm Tbissima provides a safe space for children and young people, addresses social inequalities, increases literacy levels and overall well-being, and offers vital psychosocial support.
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About the Project
Programm Tbissima is a community-based programme in Marsa and its whereabouts.
It provides a safe space for children and young people to socialize and meet their friends through non-formal education activities.
Psychosocial support is available through a multi-disciplinary team approach, to children, young people, and their families.
Concept / Background
Programm Tbissima is conceptualised following an empirical PhD study by Dr. Sharon Attard DeGiovanni published in 2013 titled Banishing the Abject: Constituting Oppositional Relationsips in a Maltese Harbour Town.
The study concluded that children from the Marsa area are more susceptible to unemployment, lack of empowerment, lacking motivation, vulnerable to engage with drugs and substance use, and having poor psychosocial skills.
Rights-Based Approach
Programm Tbissima is a rights-based programme, aligned to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Specifically, Article 28 & 29: Right to education and holistic development.
Strategic Partnerships
Alfred Mizzi Foundation
Key supporter since 2017 providing essential funding and support.
San Ġorg Preca Primary and University of Malta
Collaborative partners in creating safe, educational spaces.
Marsa Local Council and Community Police
Key suporters in outreach and community engagement.
Our Team
Programm Tbissima has a multidisciplinary team consisting of a Projects’ Manager, Project Coordinator, Project Assistant, Activity Assistant, Systemic Family Psychotherapist, and volunteers.
Volunteers are vital to Programm Tbissima, contributing to a strong sense of community and positively impacting service-users. Through their involvement, volunteers build nurturing, healthy connections with participants, supporting their learning and personal growth.
Currently, four local volunteers support the planning and operation of Programm Tbissima.
What Our Community Says
Volunteering with Tbissima at Marsa is a truly meaningful and unforgettable experience. Spending time with the children teaches me the importance of patience, active listening, and inclusion. Volunteering with Tbissima thought me, the importance, and also how to create a safe and supporting environment for the children. Furthermore, I developed and learned more about empathy, communication skills, and social awareness.
– Miriam, Volunteer
Programm Tbissima offers a welcoming and nurturing environment where young people feel safe, happy, and confident to be themselves. Over time, participants have built a caring community in which everyone genuinely supports and looks out for one another. At Programm Tbissima, youths are encouraged to grow both in character and in their skills. As a mentor, it is a truly fulfilling and rewarding experience to witness youth develop and grow, becoming more mature, confident, caring, and supportive individuals.
– Mariella, Volunteer
My children always look forward to Tbissima. They are happy and supported in the sessions as they learn through fun activities and get to build more positive connections.