King Philippe Honors Diverse Belgians on National Day, Including Moroccan-Origin Artists
As Belgium prepares to celebrate its national holiday, several personalities will be decorated by King Philippe, including two Belgians of Moroccan origin: Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui and Ibrahim Ouassari.
This year, the attribution of these honors reflects the Palace’s concern to highlight "nobility of heart", while ensuring parity between men and women, as well as between French and Dutch speakers, indicates La Libre Belgique.
Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui becomes a baron
Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui is a Belgian dancer and choreographer of Moroccan origin, born in 1976. Internationally recognized for his innovative creations blending various dance styles, he led the Royal Ballet of Flanders from 2015 to 2022, before taking over the Geneva Grand Théâtre ballet.
Ibrahim Ouassari becomes Commander of the Order of Leopold
Ibrahim Ouassari is a Belgian entrepreneur of Moroccan origin, founder of MolenGeek, a coworking space and start-up incubator based in Molenbeek. He has dedicated himself to technological innovation and social inclusion, helping young people develop their digital skills. A few weeks ago, he opened a center in Casablanca, before no doubt opening others in Morocco.
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