Storytelling is evolving. No longer confined to books or screens, it is now unfolding across virtual environments, interactive platforms, and AI enhanced creative systems. 

The Mediterranean Screen Arts Centre (MSAA) prioritises being at the forefront of this wave of change by welcoming Francis Ghersci as MSAA’s Director of Innovation and Immersive Technology. Francis Ghersci, who also serves as Head of Creative at Stargate Malta, brings a pioneering perspective to the relationship between story architecture and technology. His work explores how machine intelligence can be used not to replace human imagination, but to amplify it creating environments where stories evolve, adapt, and interact.

At the recent Building Malta’s Future in Unreal Engine: Education, Industry, & Innovation Summit, MSAA made its presence felt. The event brought together industry leaders, educators, and developers exploring the next generation of immersive media. Francis Ghersci’s talk on Stargate Malta’s journey with Unreal Engine was a standout moment, showcasing how creative technology can push boundaries and open new possibilities.

The event also featured keynotes and case studies from GamingMalta, Epic Games, and Rupture Studios, all pointing to a shared goal: building a sustainable model for Unreal Engine learning and adoption in Malta. 

A key mission of MSAA is to future-proof the next generation of storytellers not just by exposing them to the latest tools, but by helping them develop the creative judgment needed to use those tools effectively. Even the most advanced technology is only as powerful as the story behind it and knowing when and how to use it is a skill in itself.

Let us keep thinking big. Let us keep telling better stories.