5 questions with... Roberta Metsola

Shakespeare, cooking and writing.

Roberta Metsola | Photo credit: European Parliament audiovisual


1. Which person you have worked with has most inspired you in your career, and how?
Eddie Fenech Adami, the former Prime Minister and President of Malta. He was leader of the opposition in Malta in some of the darkest days in our recent political history. Through the force of his character, his sense of duty and the strength of his values, he brought Malta back from the brink, advocated a pro-European approach and eventually led Malta to take its seat as a member of the European Union. It is not an exaggeration to say he changed the face of our nation and he inspires me and my generation still today.

 

2. Is there anything you have personally achieved or done that would surprise people?
I love writing, I've even tried my hand at playwriting - never published or read by anyone apart from myself of course, so I'm not sure it counts as much of an achievement but there it is. I'm sure it's a surprise at least.

 

3. What one item would you save from your house if it was on fire?
Difficult one. After making sure everyone gets out in one piece, I think I would have to save my children's school drawings.

 

4. What do you do in your free time to relax and unwind?
I like to read a lot, although I don't manage nearly as much as I would like to. I also love cooking and experimenting with different ingredients in the kitchen and trying out new recipes from around the world. It takes my mind off things and really helps me focus. 

 

5. What was the most inspirational and influential book you have read and why?
I am a huge Shakespeare fan, so many of life's lessons can be found in his works, which are still relevant 400 years after his death. But if I had to pick one single book, it would be Nelson Mandela's Long Walk to Freedom. The sense of duty, of courage and of triumph against the worst adversity that he overcame is simply incredible.

 

Want more 5Qs? Get to know Ulrike Lunacek.

 

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