Alicia Bugeja Said is contesting the upcoming election on the 3rd and 12th Districts under the Partit Laburista ticket.We sat down with her for a quick chat to ask a few questions about her campaign, priorities, and what she hopes to bring to the table and here’s how she answered.1. Why should people vote for you?I believe every candidate deserves an opportunity, but I also believe I can offer a concrete and sustainable contribution both professionally and personally. I have a strong academic background, particularly in Political Science and in areas related to the environment, agriculture, and fisheries, which has allowed me to understand not only theory but also how it can be applied in practice.Over the past years in politics, I have not relied only on words, but have worked to deliver tangible results – including securing European funds, launching initiatives in the animal welfare sector, and contributing to improvements in fisheries and agriculture. I believe this combination of knowledge and practical experience is essential to serve people effectively.On a personal level, I come from a large, hardworking family with roots in farming and fishing, and I am also married into a family of fishermen. This keeps me closely connected to people’s everyday realities and challenges. When I meet people, I don’t just understand them as a politician, but as someone who has lived similar experiences. I believe this makes a real difference in how decisions are taken.2. Why did you decide to enter politics?My decision to enter politics was a mix of passion, study, and opportunity. I was approached by the Prime Minister to contest, but my interest in politics had been there for many years.During my doctoral studies in Political Science, I focused on areas such as the environment, agriculture, and fisheries. I attended various conferences and was involved in discussions with academics and professionals about how policies can be improved and how real solutions can be found for the challenges these sectors face.After years of studying, researching, and analysing, I reached a point where I wanted to take a step forward and contribute directly. For me, politics is not just about theory – it is a tool to create real change in people’s lives.3. What are your top three priorities for Malta right now?My first priority is food security. As a small country that relies heavily on imports, we must continue to strengthen the agriculture and fisheries sectors to become more resilient in the face of global uncertainties. This requires more investment, subsidies, and support for those working in these sectors.My second priority is supporting families. We need to continue building an environment where families can grow with greater peace of mind. This includes financial incentives, solutions to housing challenges, support in education, and most importantly, a better work-life balance.My third priority is the environment. We must invest more in open spaces, encourage stronger community involvement, and continue working towards real sustainability. The environment is not only an ecological issue, but one that directly affects people’s quality of life.4. What kind of Malta do you want to build over the next five years?I want to help build a Malta that is more sustainable, and more focused on people’s well-being. A country that continues to prioritise quality of life, where families can live with greater peace of mind and where young people have real opportunities to build their future.I also want a Malta that values its identity – in its culture, localities, and built environment. We need to continue improving aesthetics while protecting what makes us unique as a country.At the same time, Malta should continue to grow economically, but in a balanced and sustainable way, ensuring that progress does not come at the expense of the environment or people’s quality of life.5. What problem do people in your district talk to you about most?Both the northern and southern regions have different realities and needs. From farming communities to fishing communities, each face their own unique challenges and deserve careful attention and tailored support.The most common concerns people raise are related to transport and traffic, which affect their daily lives. There is also concern about parking, especially in residential areas where space is limited. The Government prioritises these concerns and a lot is being done to address the problem.In addition, many people speak about construction and aesthetics. We need to continue to preserve more of Malta’s identity and create a more organised and visually appealing environment.6. Why should young people vote for you?Young people today are full of potential and ambition, and while challenges such as the cost of living, access to property, and opportunities in education and employment remain important topics, a lot of positive work is already being done to support them. It is important that young people continue to have a strong voice and feel properly represented.I believe we must keep building on the initiatives already in place by creating even more opportunities through policies that strengthen education, employment, innovation, and a healthy work-life balance.Most importantly, I want young people to feel included, listened to, and confident that they can successfully build their future here in Malta, with the right support and opportunities around them.7. Which candidate, even outside your party, do you admire and why?One candidate I admire is Miriam Dalli. I admire her for her strong work ethic, determination, and the way she has balanced a successful political career whilst building a family.Her experience at a European Union level also stands out to me, as she represented Malta internationally and gained valuable experience working on important issues that affect people’s everyday lives. At the same time, she has remained approachable and connected to the realities families and young people face.I respect her commitment to delivering results, her leadership style, and the positive example she sets for women and young people who aspire to build both a successful career and a strong family life.8. Anything you’d like to add?I believe politics should always be about people: listening, understanding their realities, and working together to improve quality of life for everyone. I am committed to bringing energy, dedication, and a positive attitude to continue building on the good work already being done, while helping create new opportunities for families, young people, and our communities.Most importantly, I want to remain approachable, grounded, and focused on making a meaningful difference.This article was paid for by Alicia Bugeja Said. It is a sponsored article that forms part of Know Before You Vote, a new Lovin Malta series offered to candidates who intend to contest the next general election.•