The Braulio Martín Hernández Cultural Center was the setting for an emotional ceremony where tribute was paid to seven women whose careers exemplify dedication and effort. These honorees, with their diverse stories, share the characteristic of being drivers of change and progress in the community of El Paso.
“"Our honorees embody perseverance, courage, and the ability to transform their environment to improve the lives of those around them. They have known how to anticipate, take responsibility, promote changes, initiatives, and contribute to making El Paso what it is today."
The president of the Island Council of La Palma, Sergio Rodríguez, emphasized the importance of intergenerational connection, noting that these women represent a “manual for life” that teaches how to turn difficulties into opportunities and tradition into progress. For her part, the Councilor for Equality, Amanda Díaz, highlighted that the event is a declaration about the society they aspire to be, promoting the right of girls and young women to build a life without imposed limits.
The gala, hosted by Patricia Figuero and made accessible by Funcasor, featured musical performances by María Padrón and Mayte Santos. The opening was led by young people from IES El Paso, who offered an intervention inspired by the podcast “Entre Volcanes y Pinares”, underscoring the link between generations and the commitment to the values of the awards. Mayor Eloy Martín thanked all participants for their attendance and involvement, with special recognition to the Department of Social Services and Equality and its head, Amanda Díaz, as well as to Vilaví Eventos and Ángeles Fernández for their initiative.
“"There are always those who lead the way, ‘Women who open paths’, and thanks to them, the rest of us can continue to advance. It is in that sum of steps that a town writes its history."
Among the honorees were Carmen Celia Mederos Monterrey, a hairdresser and mother of eight children, recognized for breaking molds and her work in preserving traditions; María Lourdes Guerra Guillén, a Canarian embroidery artisan whose work has transcended borders; Raquel Pérez Martín, a physicist and optician committed to local service; María Fátima Acosta Castro, a traditional costume artisan and guardian of island heritage; and Sonia Esther Camacho Martín, a philologist and creator of the Río de Fuego carnival troupe, for her selfless work in local culture. Posthumous recognitions were also given to Victoriana María Pérez Henríquez (María Henríquez), for her literacy work, and to Esther País Perera, a teacher and activist during a turbulent period in the municipality's history.
