Four renowned Moroccan cultural figures were recently awarded the insignia of Chevalier of the Order of Arts and Letters by France, recognizing their contributions to arts, literature, and creativity. The honors were presented by French Consul General Pascale Trimbach in Casablanca, in the presence of Gaëtan Pellan, director of the city's French Institute. Amina Hachimi Alaoui, founder of Yanbow Al Kitab (2006), was celebrated for promoting children's literature, especially among those from modest backgrounds. «I have never lived or studied in France. My France, I discovered through books», she said. Malika Slaoui, publisher at Editions Malika, was honored for fostering spaces of dialogue and cultural exchange, notably through her co-editions with Actes Sud. She dedicated the award to her family, collaborators, and artists, especially from West Africa, stating that «art is a commitment to memory, heritage, and dialogue». French-Moroccan novelist and anthropologist Yasmine Chami was recognized for a literary career that blends emotion and intellect to probe personal and social complexities. Her acclaimed works include Cérémonie (1999), Mourir est un enchantement (2017), and Casablanca Circus (2023). She has also produced TV programs and taught literature. Fihr Kettani, founder of the Studio des arts vivants, was awarded for his role in bridging arts education with performance, through a multidisciplinary center combining music, theater, and exhibitions. In February, he was elected head of the Federation of Cultural and Creative Industries (FICC), alongside Hiba Foundation president Younes Boumehdi.
