The SiGMA Foundation boasts a buzzing and dedicated local community of over a hundred individuals, who actively participate and contribute to its efforts. This is through hosting, attending or simply being a part of the weekly treks and fundraiser events. While we often highlight the grand initiatives of the SiGMA Foundation, which in their own right significantly impact underserved communities around the globe, there are also some heartwarming stories we come across that are closer to home. Today, I’m excited to share one such story of women empowering women. 

Tiziana (Tiibo) Bonello has been a valued member of the SiGMA Foundation for well over a year, being actively involved in weekly treks, fundraising and other fundraiser activities. As she was gearing up for her first of the Camino de Santiago expedition, Tiziana celebrated her 43rd birthday party as a means to collect funds for the Women Empowerment Project. The event was attended by many community members, family and friends, amongst which was Daniela Cachia.

Tiziana Bonello and Roseann Cutajar on the Camino de Santiago with the SiGMA Foundation.

Tiziana and Daniela, childhood friends who lost touch after high school, reconnected via social media about 12 years ago. Their friendship picked up right where it left off, with both supporting each other through life’s highs and lows. It was in recent years becoming evident that Daniela had long needed a new wheelchair, as her old one was outdated and cumbersome. Unfortunately, the cost for this was prohibitive.

Daniela Cachia and Tiziana Bonello as kids.

“Tii made it a point to spend most of our breaks with me in class (as kids), as time passed by we left school and grew apart but thanks to social media we managed to find each other again… the bond we had was like we never drifted apart.”

Daniela Cachia and Tiziana Bonello with her little girl.

Tiziana was deeply touched when she learned that Daniela had donated a generous sum to her fundraising effort. Moved by Daniela’s generosity, Tiziana shared this heartfelt gesture with the SiGMA Foundation community. Inspired by the story, everyone came together to contribute whatever they could, ultimately raising enough to purchase a new wheelchair for Daniela.

Daniela Cachia and Tiziana Bonello dancing at Tiziana’s 43rd birthday party fundraiser.

Recently, the community gathered for a special night to surprise Daniela with this exciting news.

SiGMA Foundation community with Daniela Cachia.

This act of kindness reveals the profound impact of women empowering women, whether within our local community or across the globe. It’s a reminder of the compassion and unity that drive the SiGMA Foundation and its mission.

SiGMA Foundation 2025: The road ahead

Looking ahead, the SiGMA Foundation has ambitious plans for the upcoming year. Building on the success of past initiatives, the Foundation aims to expand its reach and scale its impact in key areas.  This expedition will be part of the collective efforts to raise €100,000 to finance a new annex at a hospital in Iquitos, Peru. This hospital, located within the Peruvian Amazon Jungle, is operated by the parish of Saint Martin de Porres and provides essential medical care to impoverished communities across the region. The project, headed by Gozitan Fr Raymond Portelli, the parish priest and practising doctor based in Peru, entails the construction of new patient rooms, a conference room, storage facilities, and a green area for patient recreation. The facility provides essential services to patients suffering from various ailments, including psychological support, long-term care for AIDS patients, treatment for tuberculosis, cirrhosis, cancer, renal failure, and other critical conditions. The new annex will significantly enhance the hospital’s capacity to meet the growing demand for medical care and improve the quality of life for those in the region who rely on its services. 

Get Involved As A Participant or Sponsor

Feeling the urge to make a difference? Whether you wish to share your ideas, contribute financially, or participate in one of our fundraising initiatives, we value your enthusiasm and dedication to creating positive change.

Begin your journey with the SiGMA Foundation by reaching out through the SiGMA website.