As part of the U.S. Embassy's observance of International Women's Day and Women's History Month, U.S. Ambassador Constance Milstein honored Anna Maria Vella, MD, PhD, as the recipient of the 2024 Woman of Courage Award. Dr. Vella is recognized for her role as Clinical Chair at Aġenzija Sedqa and as a co-founder of Dar Hosea.
The award annually acknowledges women who demonstrate outstanding courage, commitment, and leadership in improving others' lives. Dr. Vella was chosen for her dedication to supporting vulnerable women.
Ambassador Milstein remarked, "Dr. Vella exemplifies a true woman of courage through her decades of service as a medical doctor – and as the Clinical Chair – at Aġenzija Sedqa. We honor her commitment to the care of women dealing with prenatal substance abuse, as well as her work as a founding member of Dar Hosea."
In response to receiving the award, Dr. Vella stated, "I feel very honored by this award, but I really believe it would be presumptuous of me to believe that I achieved anything on my own. There has always been a team of people around me that believed in me and my vision and has supported me all along."
The United States and Malta share values that promote human rights and economic empowerment for disadvantaged individuals. The U.S. Embassy collaborates with local partners to uphold these values and support efforts aimed at enhancing human rights protection and assisting vulnerable people in reaching their full potential.