The Manuel de Falla Auditorium has hosted the XXVII Gathering of Older Persons, organized by the City Council of Granada to pay tribute to the «active, committed, and fundamental» role that older people play in the life of the city.
As detailed by the City Council in a statement, the event was presided over by the councilor for Social Policy, Family, Disability, and Older Persons of the City Council of Granada, Amparo Arrabal, who was accompanied by social entities and associations of older persons. During her speech, the councilor stated, «Granada has an unpayable debt to the generations that have preceded us, who with effort, humility, and values have built the city that we enjoy today.»
«Recognizing the talent, commitment, and humanity of all of you is also a way to look towards the future with hope. We are not only honoring exemplary trajectories, but also projecting a model of inclusive, supportive, and grateful society,» highlighted Arrabal.
In this context, she pointed out that «this Friday we have said thank you. And we have done it with emotion, with music, with heartfelt words. But above all with the firm commitment to continue working for a Granada where older persons occupy the place they deserve, at the center,» she concluded.
During the gala, the 2025 Elderly Awards were presented, distinctions that recognize individuals whose work has had a positive and lasting impact on the lives of older persons and society as a whole. This year, diverse profiles have been highlighted, united by their dedication, sensitivity, and ability to transform realities.
The awardees were Fernando Ónega, a nationally renowned journalist and writer whose voice has accompanied the major milestones in recent Spanish history. A former press director of the Government Presidency under Adolfo Suárez and author of the iconic «Puedo prometer y prometo,» he continues to be active as the president of the 65ymas.com newspaper and a collaborator in various media outlets. His career is an «example of commitment» to quality journalism and the visibility of older persons.
Concepción González ‘Abuela Conchi,’ born in Madrid and adopted by Granada, has become a phenomenon on social media at the age of 90 thanks to her Instagram account, where she shares positive messages, vital reflections, and everyday advice with over 100,000 followers, representing a new way of aging.
Miguel Sánchez Ruzafa, a musician, composer, and pedagogue, was the director of the Municipal Music Band of Granada for almost four decades. A Harmony professor and author of scores such as ‘Palio Blanco’ or ‘Miércoles Santo en Granada,’ he is an «essential» figure in the musical heritage of the city and a reference in the artistic training of several generations.
Marisol Casas, founder and former president of the Granabip Association, has dedicated her life to giving voice and support to individuals with bipolar disorder and their families. Her work for mental health, integration, and the dignity of those affected has made Granabip a reference in the Granada associative sphere.
Trinitario Betoret, a Granada-based entrepreneur linked to the tourism sector, has carried out outstanding social work as the president of the Padre Manjón Social Work, especially in the North area of Granada. His commitment to the most vulnerable and his involvement in social improvement initiatives make him an «example of responsibility and intergenerational sensitivity.»
As the culmination of the day, the Granada tenor Moisés Marín offered a concert that moved the audience with a repertoire of classical and popular pieces, putting the finishing touch to this celebration.