Hugo Chetcuti spent his lifetime building one of Malta’s most recognisable entertainment brands, until his legacy was cut short. A few weeks before he was murdered, he had sat down for what would be his final interview. Today, his marketing and PR consultant Robert Bonnici opens up with Lovin Malta about the camera-shy businessman he worked with so closely.

Less than a month before the horrific attack on leading local entrepreneur, philanthropist and founder of Hugo’s Group, Hugo Chetcuti, he sat for an interview with an international travel and lifestyle blogger. Little did any of us know that Aria Martelle would capture Hugo’s last ever Q&A on camera.

I was there when this took place, as I was for most of his ‘public’ appearances. Even though he was extremely sociable and outgoing, Hugo was awfully shy when it came to making speeches in front of an audience. Even if they were just close friends.

In fact, on numerous occasions, I had to spend time trying to coax him into it. What he could never understand or even believe, was that unlike so many other people I knew, when Hugo spoke, he immediately held everyone’s attention. He had an aura about him, a charm, a way with words which just captivated all of those in attendance. This exclusive interview with the man himself will give testimony to this, along with a brief insight into the mind of a genius.

Hugo Chetcuti lost the biggest battle of his life on Thursday 12th July after being violently attacked by an ex-employee. He welcomed everyone with open arms and although this would ultimately prove his undoing, if Hugo was alive today, he would still want us to ‘love thy neighbour’, regardless of race, colour, religion, creed or sexual orientation.

Although many of you know him as one of Malta’s leading entrepreneurs and businessmen, I also knew him as a compassionate and sensitive person whose acts of kindness and generosity knew no bounds. Although I have lost a very good friend, It’s been a privilege to work alongside him to help develop and realise his aspirations.

But life goes on and so will Hugo’s legacy and with his son Luke at the helm, we’ll continue to be at the forefront of the market for years to come.

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Chris Peregin

Christian is an award-winning journalist and entrepreneur who founded Lovin Malta, a new media company dedicated to creating positive impact in society. He is passionate about justice, public finances and finding ways to build a better future.