Malta’s Alex Borg: Turning Criticism into Global Inspiration

Alex Borg: From Malta’s Streets to the World Stage

Picture this: a bustling street in Valletta, Malta’s capital city. The sun is setting, casting a warm glow over the historic buildings. Among the crowd, a man walks briskly, his eyes scanning the scene. This is no ordinary man; he’s Alex Borg, the founder of Malta’s first skateboard school, SkateMalta. Today, he’s not just a local hero, but a global inspiration, with his story featured in international documentaries and his school attracting visitors from around the world.

From Criticism to Copycats

Alex Borg didn’t set out to be a pioneer. He was just a passionate skateboarder who wanted to share his love for the sport. But Malta, with its narrow streets and conservative culture, wasn’t exactly welcoming. “People would criticise us, call us ‘għalliem’ (foreigners), say we were causing trouble,” Alex recalls, sitting in the heart of Paceville, the island’s nightlife hub, now a stone’s throw from his skatepark.

But Alex didn’t let the criticism deter him. Instead, he turned it into fuel. He started teaching skateboarding to kids, not just in Malta, but also in Italy, France, and even as far as China. And guess what? Those who once criticized him are now sending their kids to his school. “They criticise us, then they copy us,” Alex laughs, a hint of pride in his voice.

Malta’s Skateboarding Revolution

Alex’s story is not just about him; it’s about a revolution. Today, Malta has more than 10 skateparks, including the world-class one in Pembroke, designed by legendary skateboarder Tony Hawk. Skateboarding is now part of the curriculum in some schools. And Malta’s skateboarders are making waves internationally, with names like Matthew Attard and Luke Santini competing in global events.

But it’s not just about the sport. Alex’s school is a community. It’s a place where kids from different backgrounds come together, learn, and grow. It’s a place where they can be themselves, away from the judgmental eyes of the world. “Skateboarding is more than just a sport,” Alex says, “It’s a lifestyle, a culture.”

And this culture is not just confined to Malta. Alex’s story has inspired skateboarders and educators around the world. His school has been featured in international documentaries, and he’s been invited to speak at global conferences. He’s not just putting Malta on the skateboarding map; he’s putting it on the world stage.

So, the next time you’re in Malta, don’t just visit the historic sites. Head to one of the skateparks. Watch the kids, their faces lit up with joy and determination. Watch Malta’s future in motion. And remember, it all started with a man who turned criticism into inspiration, right here in the heart of the Mediterranean.