Our mission would not be possible without our exceptional team.
United in purpose, we are committed to effecting positive change by providing unwavering support to families navigating challenging journeys.
Through collaborative efforts, we aim to uplift and guide these families, fostering a climate where hope becomes a beacon illuminating their path through challenging times.
Meet Our Management Team
Claire Chircop
Director & Co-Founder
Claire is the visionary behind the Karl Vella Foundation (KVF), co-founding it with Rosemary Ann, Karl Vella’s wife, in 2014. Since its inception, Claire has been the driving force behind KVF, channeling her passion into the organisation.
With a background in the education sector spanning several years, Claire brings valuable experience to her role. Recently, she graduated as a MindBody Therapy practitioner, reflecting her keen interest in mindfulness practices. Claire’s unwavering dedication is evident as she tirelessly spearheads the implementation of new projects within KVF, contributing to the foundation’s ongoing mission and growth.
Mark Calleja
Senior Manager
For the past few years, Mark has served as the Psychological Support Services Coordinator at the Karl Vella Foundation. His professional journey encompasses diverse roles in psycho-social, educational, and spiritual fields with various organizations. Mark, a qualified professional in Training and Human Resources Management, also holds expertise in Consciousness & Transpersonal Psychology. This background equips him with a comprehensive understanding of whole-person development, particularly psycho-spiritual growth. Beyond his professional pursuits, Mark nurtures a passion for creative writing, martial arts, and mindfulness practices. His multifaceted career and educational background reflect a commitment to fostering holistic well-being and personal development.
Clayton Portelli
Because You Matter Coordinator
Clayton holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology (1st Class Honours) from the University of Malta. He aspires to further his studies in the psychology field. He also has experience as an ESL educator, and has volunteered with children with learning difficulties.
Clayton coordinates the service of ‘Because You Matter’, where he provides emotional and psychological support to patients receiving treatment abroad, their carers, donors, and their families. In addition, Clayton facilitates sessions for The Wellness Pod. Outside of work, Clayton has a keen interest in music, books and travelling.
Gillianne Saliba
The Wellness Pod Coordinator
Gillianne, KVF’s Wellness Pod coordinator, holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and is pursuing a Master’s in Gestalt Psychotherapy. Focused on supporting children facing illness or loss and their families, she brings a 5-year background in the social sector. Initially aiding children with ASD, she later provided emotional support to crime victims, emphasizing advocacy and social change. Gillianne, passionate about child development, employs creative modalities like art, play, and drama in therapy. Eager to specialize in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, she approaches her work with enthusiasm and a continual desire for learning.
Adrianne Mercieca
PA to the Director
Adrianne, a seasoned educator with over two decades of teaching experience, holds qualifications as a teacher and has worked in both primary and secondary school settings. In 2019, she became a valuable addition to the Karl Vella Foundation (KVF) by joining as a volunteer. Recognizing her dedication and skills, in 2021, Adrianne transitioned into the role of Personal Assistant to the Director at KVF. Her extensive background in education and commitment to the foundation’s mission make her a valuable asset in supporting the organization’s operations and contributing to its goals.
Jessica Zammit Tabona
Support Staff for Because You Matter
Jessica, a support staff for the because you matter service and a lead facilitator for the wellness pod sessions holds a Masters in Gestalt Psychotherapy and has two years of work experience in the field of addiction. Jessica is passionate about giving her time and experience to support individuals in society who need it the most . Jessica loves to spend her free time with her family outdoors , enjoying nature and making memories through travels and adventures.
Abigail Mifsud
Support Staff for Because You Matter
Abigail holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Counselling. She has experience supporting clients facing various challenges including loss and grief, family issues, life transitions, self-esteem and identity issues, difficulties related to neurodivergence, and issues related to spirituality. During her time as a Social Worker, Abigail spent six years working with adult victims of domestic violence and formed part of a COVID-19 helpline dealing with issues of loneliness.
Currently, Abigail forms part of the ‘Because You Matter’ team, providing psychological support to patients receiving medical treatment abroad, their carers, donors, and family members.
Abigail is passionate about prioritizing her clients’ autonomy and values the lessons they impart. In her leisure time, she finds joy in nature, reading, and immersing herself in the performing art
Martina Saliba
Support Staff for Because You Matter
Liana Kovacheva
Support Staff for The Wellness Pod
Other Support
Group Facilitators
Group facilitators from various fields help in providing children with different experiences throughout the programmes offered in The Wellness Pod.
Mental Health Professionals
Various professionals provide the children attending KVF with the psychological support needed. Therapists at KVF use different forms of therapy such as talk therapy, art therapy, play therapy, drama therapy and siblings therapy to enable the children to express and process their emotions.
Child Support Workers
KVF’s child support workers help to give more individualised attention to the children. With the help of the child support workers, each child’s individual need within the group is met.
Trainers, Teachers & LSE’s
As part of the Wellness Pod Programme, trainers, teachers, and LSEs collaborate and deliver educational support to the holistic well-being and development of children under this programme.
Volunteers
A number of volunteers from various walks of life help out at KVF Centre. These volunteers help by supporting and watching over children during play-time, and helping out during any activity organized at KVF. A group of volunteers also help with fundraising.
Student Placements
KVF Welcomes students reading a degree in Psychotherapy, Child and Family Studies, Counselling, Psychology, Social Work, Youth and Community Studies to do their field placement at the KVF Centre.