Remembering Zaylen: A Playground Of Joy Will Keep His Spirit Alive
Six-year-old Zaylen brought joy, laughter and warmth into every space he entered.
This weekend, Malta was left heartbroken by the tragic news of Zaylen’s passing. It was a loss deeply felt not only by the Hand in Hand community but by everyone who heard his story.
Zaylen was more than a student. He was a bright light, full of life, full of energy and full of love for play. Now, the school community that watched him grow is ensuring that his spirit will continue to shine through the opening of Zaylen’s Playground, a new space designed to reflect the happiness he radiated.
The playground, which will be built on Hand in Hand’s grounds, is set to serve children with autism, ADHD, specific learning needs and other developmental disabilities.
But more than that, it will stand as a place of inclusion, joy and childhood wonder — everything Zaylen loved most.
In a statement to Lovin Malta, the school said:
“At Hand in Hand, Zaylen brought joy, laughter and light into every corner of our school. In his memory, we are creating Zaylen’s Playground — a space that captures the happiness he radiated and the love he had for play. This project is more than just a playground; it’s a tribute to a beautiful soul and a lasting gift to the children who come through our doors every day.”
The initiative has already seen an outpouring of love and support from the community, with donations being collected to help bring the project to life. The school added:
“We are humbled and grateful for the incredible support shown by the community. Every donation towards Zaylen’s Playground helps us honour his memory in the most meaningful way — through joy, inclusion, and childhood wonder.”
Zaylen may be gone far too soon, but his impact is permanent. Through this space, the joy he carried with him will continue to echo — not only as a tribute to his memory, but as a daily reminder of the power of play, belonging, and love.
Hand in Hand is supporting children with specific learning needs, autism, ADHD and other developmental disabilities.
Rest in peace Zaylen