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The year 2025 is drawing to a close. An extraordinary gathering of compassion, leadership, and quiet sacrifices reminds us that true community does not come from words, but rather deeds.
Fuengirola’s final days were marked by a deeply meaningful event, far from the headlines and the grand gestures. The Adintre community center served dignity, warmth and a sense of hope alongside food. It was a powerful way to remind people that humanity still exists, even if the world is facing increasing hardship.
Unwavering Joyce Gyimah – one woman offers helping hand to homeless
Joyce Gyimah is the woman at the heart of this story. She founded Adintre, and her life has come to be synonymous with service. Joyce Gyimah has done much more than support the homeless. In an increasingly unsteady world, she has created a sanctuary of stability and compassionate care. Even though her British Empire Medal recognizes her extraordinary service, it barely scratches the surface of what she has sacrificed. Joyce sacrificed her comforts in order to help others survive. She has dedicated herself completely to making her dream of shelter, dignity, and support a reality.
This particular Monday morning followed a long, unforgiving and exhausting weekend for those who live on the street. Adintre’s atmosphere was very different. Joyce was recently ill, but she still managed to be present and command the room in a calm, maternal manner. For those gathered, she is far more than a charity leader — she is family.
Credit: EWN
La Scala Cuisine brought to the poor by a restauranteur
What made the day truly exceptional was the arrival of Tibbi Aquila, founder of La Scala Group, accompanied by his fiancée Michelle Mellet, whose kindness and generosity of spirit left a lasting impression on everyone present. Tibbi is widely recognised across the Costa del Sol as one of the region’s most successful restaurateurs — a man behind some of the most respected, consistently excellent and welcoming restaurants in the area. Tibbi’s restaurants are not only known for their outstanding food but also for their atmosphere, hospitality, and rare ability to make each guest feel valued.
Tibbi, by all definitions, is a highly savvy and tough businessman. His success was earned by his unwavering commitment, discipline and standards. But beneath the professional steel, there is a golden heart. He is, quite simply, one of the finest hosts the Costa del Sol has to offer — in business and in life. He brought the same professionalism and generosity on this day to those who rarely get it.
A message of prayer and hope
Joyce had gathered all of her guests for a traditional prayer. Her words were straight to the point. Adintre receives no government funding. Adintre receives no government funding. The only reason it survives is because people who are human believe in being human. “We all have a right fall,” said she. “And without another human being to lift us up, there will be no way out.” The applause which followed was both heartfelt, and well-deserved.
Michel Euesden stood alongside Joyce and Tibbi. His contribution to the cause is not a matter of minutes, but rather years. Michel Euesden has been feeding the homeless in Fuengirola for many years, long before there were cameras, articles, or any public recognition. The profits were given without hesitation. The urgent needs in front of her have taken precedence over time, energy and health. There have been no headlines, no self-promotion — only silent dedication to a problem that continues to grow.
Special recognition must also go to Alison Steele, Esteban Molina Walsh, and Benjamin George Wickham, who once again gave their time freely — as they do so often — to help feed those in need. These people are aware that community isn’t a concept, but something they actively participate in.
Thank you and enjoy the festivities
Something extraordinary happened as Christmas crackers, laughter, and party hats filled the room. For a few hours, people were not homeless — they were guests. They were not forgotten — they were seen.
Not only is it important to give food, but also HOPE.
Enjoy the New Year!
