SBS Radio’s Christophe Mallet awarded French National Order of Merit
Long-time Executive Producer of SBS Radio’s French program Christophe Mallet was awarded the National Order of Merit at a ceremony in Melbourne last Friday.
Mallet received the honour from Jean-Marc Ayrault, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Development and former Prime Minister of France.
“I am incredibly honoured to be introduced as a Knight of the Order of Merit in France,” Mallet said, speaking earnestly about his background and heritage.
“I immediately think of my grandparents – Italian refugees who were fleeing the rise of fascism in their country in the early 30s.
“France accepted them, and me, as a second generation migrant. I am incredibly humbled by the honour that I received today and it makes me hopeful for the future.”
Jean-Marc Ayrault said: “After meeting the Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull today, it’s an honour to give the medal to one key actor of the French community, doing an incredible job here in Australia – this is why France is proud to make Christophe a distinguished Knight of the Order of Merit.”