The President of the Andalusian Government, Juanma Moreno, has presided over the delivery of the Meridiana Awards in Almería, which recognize great examples of commitment to real equality between men and women. He emphasized the goal of working towards a fair society where everyone has the same opportunities in all areas, and where there is no need to demand things that are «fundamental in any progressive society.»
«The great transformations of society come from the citizens. All of you contribute to changing our society, and we are here to advocate for a more equal, fair, and dignified society,» he added.
Moreno referred to all the award winners, recognizing their trajectory, dedication, and social work. He asserted that these awards are more than just accolades; they are an expression of collective awareness, memory, present, and future, showing the reality of a strong, transformative, and talented Andalusian society.
In this way, he made reference to Rocío Salas, who, as he stated, teaches us that art is an extraordinary tool to advance in awareness, social health, and critical attitude; to María Teresa Velasco, an example that classrooms are a breeding ground for equality, and to the Promotions Department of Canal Sur and Television, a reflection that the role of the media is fundamental in spreading this commitment and sensitivity to the world.
Likewise, he mentioned FEAFES, Coco Reyes, Carmen Rueda, Festivalada, Remedios Sánchez, the Rural Olympics of Los Pedroches, Francisca Borrero, Teresa Vera, Grupo Osborne, María Teresa Díaz and Ángeles Martín, and Fátima Báñez, who received the Carmen Olmedo Honorary Award.
The President of the Junta poses with several awardees.
The Andalusian President pointed out that together we go further when we have a common goal, and that joint work is beginning to bear fruit.
In this regard, he stated that today there are more female entrepreneurs in Andalusia than ever before, 17% more than six years ago, that 53% of new self-employed individuals are women, that this is the second community with the greatest decrease in female unemployment since 2028, that the gender pay gap has been reduced by more than seven points, and that over 40% of research staff in this community are women.
Fátima Báñez received the Carmen Olmedo Honorary Award.
In conclusion, he urged to continue advancing to address equality issues and expressed gratitude for being able to participate in this event and see the collective effort made by the awardees and their commitment to creating a combative and engaged society that believes in the equality of all.
The event was attended by the Minister of Social Inclusion, Youth, Families, and Equality, Loles López; the Minister of Educational Development and Vocational Training, María del Carmen Castillo; the Mayor of Almería, María del Mar Vázquez, and the recipients of the 2025 Meridiana Awards.
Juanma Moreno presents the award to María Teresa Díaz.