Mr. Karapanagiotidis spoke about this honour, but also the opportunity given to him through his award, to promote even more his work for those seeking asylum in our country.
Speaking to the SBS Greek, he said about the joy of sharing these moments with his mother, but not his father, who is no longer alive.
"I am very happy to be Melbournian of the Year, I was the first child in my family to go to school. My father from the age of nine and my mother from 12 worked in the fields, like many Greeks came to Australia, with nothing. They were poor. They worked hard for me and my sister so that we could do something with our lives. Everything I have done I owe to my mother and father. Being there with my mother that night it was amazing, unfortunately my father wasn't alive to see me. Being Greek and Pontian, I was very happy for that recognition," he said.
These awards are given to citizens who dedicate their time and energy to making Melbourne a better city.
Since the age of 18, Mr Karapagiotis has given back to his community, having volunteered with more than 20 charities, including for Indigenous Australians, young people, the homeless and people facing mental health issues.
Speaking to SBS Greek he said that he has learned to care not only about himself, but also about the society in which he lives.
"Everything I've done has taught me how happy I am with what I have, not to forget where I come from and to try to use the opportunities I have to do the best for those who don't have anything. All my life I have learned not to forget my heart. To not just think about myself, but to think about my family and not forget the society I live in," he said.
The awards, which are in their 21st year, highlight eight key areas including Indigenous Australians, the arts, people from the LGBTQA+ community, innovation and sustainability.
Listen to more by pressing play on the podcast in the main photo.
