The Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence (MAEs) were held on Thursday, December 4 honouring individuals and organisations whose work has strengthened multiculturalism and social cohesion across the state.
This year’s ceremony also featured the Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll, acknowledging local champions whose volunteer leadership has supported safety, resilience and connection within Victoria’s diverse communities.
Five Australians with Hellenic heritage were recognised among the honourees: Suzy Bourdamis, Helen Kalimniou, Angelos Terrence Kenos, Eleftheria Lalopoulos and Eugenia Mitrakas, each celebrated for longstanding contributions to community advocacy, cultural preservation and public service.
The ceremony also formally acknowledged Bill Papastergiadis for his four-year term as a Commissioner of the Victorian Multicultural Commission. A prominent community leader and current president of the Greek Community of Melbourne, Papastergiadis was thanked for his service and leadership by the Governor of Victoria.
Delivered in partnership with the Victorian Multicultural Commission, the MAEs remain one of the state’s key platforms for recognising multicultural leadership across fields including education, media, justice, health, business and civic participation.
Now in their 24th year, the awards featured 14 categories reflecting the breadth of multicultural contribution. The 2025 ceremony streamed live on Thursday, December 4.
