Denise Perini

Denise Perini is a project manager and cultural innovator working at the intersection of youth, creative production, and sustainable development. Her career has never followed a straight line; partly because she doesn’t have a quiet bone in her body, and partly by design. Grounded in human-centred design, systems thinking, and a strong belief in inclusive cultural practice, Denise is driven by work that brings people together and turns ideas into action.

She currently works with Culture Venture and Udjenza focusing on Production and Development, and as a freelancer, collaborating with public, private, and nonprofit organisations on projects that amplify youth voices and strengthen creative industries. Denise is particularly drawn to fast-moving environments where strategy, creativity, and execution meet.

Previously, Denise spent several years at FreeHour Malta, one of the country’s leading youth platforms as Head of Projects & Operations. During her time there, she led national initiatives such as FutureHour: The State of Youth in Malta, Freshers’ Month, and the Youth Awards. Her foundation in creative leadership was also formed at Studio 18, a learning organisation focused on youth and performance.

Alongside her project management work, Denise is an accomplished production and stage manager in the performing arts. She has collaborated with multiple theatre companies, including Teatru Malta, FM Theatre Productions, ŻiguŻajg, and Du Theatre. Some of her production credits include Larinġa Mekkanika, Ma Kuraġġ, Lupu/Naġgħa, Il-Giddieb Għomru Twil, Kif Tgħallimt Insuq, Annie, and Mid Djarju ta’ Student fi Skola tal-Knisja.

When she isn’t managing projects, Denise is probably sneaking a nap in her car, enjoying a good coffee, or indulging her inner hopeless romantic (cue Billy Joel’s Piano Man).