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About us

Our History

The Office of the Commissioner for Voluntary Organizations was set up by the Voluntary Organizations Act 2007 with the task to strengthen the voluntary sector through various initiatives with the specific aim of promoting the work of VOs as well as encouraging their role as partners with the government in various initiatives. Cap. 23 of 2007 Voluntary Organizations Act came into force in November 2007 Prof. Kenneth Wain was the first Commissioner for Voluntary Organizations over the period 2007-2018.

The second Commissioner for Voluntary Organizations was Dr. Anthony J. Abela Medici. He served the office in his position over the period 2018-2021.  The office of the Commissioner for Voluntary Organizations is now under the helm of Mr. Jesmond Saliba who was appointed as the Third Commissioner for Voluntary Organizations in 2021.

WHO WE ARE

Meet the Executive Team

We’re more than just colleagues – we’re a team of passionate people who love what we do and enjoy working together. Each of us brings something unique to the table, and together we make things happen. Take a moment to meet the faces behind our work and get to know the people who keep everything moving forward.

  • Dr. Raiza Oncu
    Dr. Raiza Oncu

    Chief Officer (Regulatory, Services & Policy)

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  • Ms. Riona Bruno
    Ms. Riona Bruno

    Chief Officer (Internal Operations)

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  • Mr. Roderick Agius
    Mr. Roderick Agius

    Director (Support Services)

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  • Ms. Marika Farrugia
    Ms. Marika Farrugia

    Director (Annual Returns, International Affairs and Research)

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  • Dr. John Seychell Navarro
    Dr. John Seychell Navarro

    Director (Legal Services)

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  • Ms. Cynthia Ann Dako Ellul
    Ms. Cynthia Ann Dako Ellul

    Head (Intent, Pre-Enrolment, Inter-regulatory Liaison, Enrolment and Classification)

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  • Ms. Joanne Galdes
    Ms. Joanne Galdes

    Head (Central Information Management & Analysis & Technology)

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  • Dr. Joseph Ciappara
    Dr. Joseph Ciappara

    Head (Investigations)

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Our Purpose

Recognising the importance of voluntary organisations as a main pillar within society and the economy, the ultimate mission of the Commissioner’s office is to enable this socio-economic pillar of our country so they can deliver the social, civil, and community benefits. As the main regulatory body of the sector, the Commissioner’s office encourages and enforces the governance of the voluntary organisations and their activities to strengthen and protect the function of voluntarism directed towards the achievement of the ultimate greater and common good.