“A multi-talented marketing consultant and only twenty years old. Reconnecting with Matthias.”

Freelance marketing consultant, photographer and Tourism Studies student; Matthias Buttigieg may only be 20, but since completing the Professional Diploma in Digital Marketing and Photography and Photo Manipulation course, he’s been busy building an impressive portfolio of work experience both locally and internationally. Here’s what he’s been up to.

Since we last spoke, you’ve moved into freelancing in the digital marketing world. Are there any projects you’ve particularly enjoyed working on?

It’s not always easy to work on a freelance basis when you’re young because it’s all about networking, building trust, and making the right connections. That said, having the right digital skills has given me the opportunity to work across a range of sectors and tap into those I have a particular passion for, like the film industry.

Every project has its own story, its own points of satisfaction, and its own feeling of accomplishment. I’ve found that working at a high level in various sectors such as hospitality and events really incites more pride and further determination to work in a team and collectively bring the results which each organisation or campaign aims to achieve.

One particular highlight for me was working on a campaign with Universal Pictures with the aim of bringing in key influencers and press to Malta. Together with the hardworking individuals at the Malta Film Commission, we organised a “fam trip” and created an appealing programme to market the screen tourism product that was generated thanks to the filming of Jurassic World Dominion in Malta. It was especially memorable since it was so iconic for Malta and, on a personal level, helped me to broaden my network overseas.

What do you find most exciting about the use of digital in the tourism and hospitality industries?

I am currently reading for a degree in Tourism Studies at the University of Malta which I should be finishing in June. My experience studying with ICE Malta made me realise how much I value learning-by-doing and engaging with real case studies, and now I’m seeing that my existing digital skills are extremely relevant in the tourism industry. My digital marketing skills have definitely given me an extra edge in understanding how and why businesses operate the way they do for local or international audiences.

The fact that I get to work on projects which are related to my studies is truly wonderful. Digital is pretty much the way forward, and I look forward to having a positive impact on every project I get the opportunity to be involved in. Speaking of this, earlier this year I was given the opportunity to hold the position of Director of Marketing on a voluntary basis within the steering committee of PMI Malta, a voluntary organisation aimed at enhancing the level of project management in Malta and which is due to launch later this year.

You’ve achieved a huge amount and you’re still only 20! Do you have set career goals or are you enjoying taking opportunities as they come?

Hard work and determination, amongst other variables, are the key to success. While I am currently not eyeing any particular career for the future, I’m always determined to intelligently evaluate any opportunities I come by which will create a positive impact on society and contribute to what I believe in.

Do you have any plans to continue studying after your degree?

Once my degree is out of the way, I’d definitely be interested in the Digital Marketing Expert (Postgraduate) course with ICE Malta. I’m always looking for ways to stay ahead in the industry and enhance my practical experience. When it comes to digital, there are always new things—like TikTok or the Metaverse—entering the space, so it’s both invigorating and challenging to keep up with the latest trends.

What’s your attitude to ongoing learning?

I believe ongoing learning is a must. One can never learn everything. Every single day, we wake up to learn something new.

Since becoming one of our youngest ever alumni for the Professional Diploma in Digital Marketing, Matthias has struck out on a unique path that blends his favourite industries, and he shows no signs of slowing down. His appetite for learning and for chasing new experiences is a true inspiration and proof that age never has to hold you back. We can’t wait to see what this prodigy will achieve next!