A long-standing advocate for Sikh youth and multicultural engagement, Mr Satwant Singh Calais, New South Wales, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division for service to the Sikh community.
Mr Calais is a co-founder of Sikh Youth Australia (SYA), established in 1999 to address a lack of organised resources and support for young Sikhs across the country. He has served as president of the non-profit organisation since 2008, helping it grow into a national platform dedicated to leadership development, cultural preservation and community service.
Under his leadership, SYA has launched several flagship initiatives, including the Sikh to Give and Culture Care programs in 2012, which focus on social responsibility, wellbeing and engagement in multicultural Australia. In 2019, he also played a key role in organising the Divine Steps Multicultural Music Festival, bringing together communities through music and cultural exchange.
Beyond SYA, Mr Calais continues to support Sikh institutions through his role as chief patron and benefactor of the Australian Sikh Association at Glenwood Gurdwara. He is also a co-founder of the Young Sikh Professionals Network, established in 2012 to mentor and connect emerging professionals within the community.
Professionally, Mr Calais has balanced community service with a successful career in property and consultancy. He has been managing director of the Gregory Hills Development Company since 2012 and previously served as principal of Calais Consultants between 2005 and 2011.
Sikh Youth Australia, founded by a group of young Sikhs determined to make a difference, has evolved into a vibrant organisation running camps, workshops, seminars and cultural festivals throughout the year. Its mission centres on empowering Sikh youth through leadership programs, life-skills development, spiritual education and community participation, while promoting love, peace and understanding in Australia’s multicultural society.
The OAM recognises Mr Calais’s sustained contribution to nurturing confident, socially engaged Sikh Australians and preserving Sikh values, traditions and cultural heritage for future generations.
The announcement comes as part of the Australia Day 2026 Honours List, recognising 949 Australians for their service and contributions to the community, marking an increase of over 200 awards from last year. Governor-General Sam Mostyn said the list celebrates Australians whose work reflects the nation’s values of service, kindness, curiosity, and care.
Recipients will receive their awards at investiture ceremonies across Australia in the coming months.
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