Madrid, 8 October – Fundación MAPFRE has presented its Social Outreach Awards, which recognise the generosity, solidarity, and commitment of individuals and organisations working for the benefit of society in the scientific, cultural, and social spheres. The ceremony was presided over by Her Majesty Queen Sofía, with Elma Saiz, Spanish Minister of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, and Antonio Huertas, President of Fundación MAPFRE, in attendance.
This year’s award recipients are:
- João Carlos Martins, internationally renowned pianist and conductor, recognised for his professional career.
- International Confederation of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, awarded for its outstanding social track record.
- 100,000 Floors to Play On, honoured for its high social impact.
- Alejandro Izuzquiza, acknowledged for his research on the Spanish insurance market (Julio Castelo Matrán International Insurance Award).
Antonio Huertas highlighted that “role models, people or institutions that think and work to change what is not right, are more necessary than ever.” He reflected on Fundación MAPFRE’s 50-year history, emphasising its inclusive mission and impact on vulnerable communities.
João Carlos Martins
The Brazilian pianist and conductor, celebrated for his interpretations of Bach, has overcome major personal challenges to return to music. Upon receiving the José Manuel Martínez Martínez Award, he expressed his determination and connection to Spain, noting: “My life is not about overcoming adversity, but about determination, which is a powerful characteristic of the Spanish people.”
International Confederation of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul
Founded in 1833, the organisation has over two million volunteers in 155 regions, carrying out 2,500 projects annually and supporting 30 million people. Its president, Juan Manuel B. Gómez, said the prize will help “boost international development cooperation for disaster relief and support youth volunteering.”
100,000 Floors to Play On
A joint initiative by Habitat for Humanity and the Inter-American Cement Federation, the project replaces dirt floors with concrete in vulnerable households across Latin America and the Caribbean. Cesarina Fabián, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Dominican Republic, noted: “Each concrete floor represents more than just a material improvement: it is health, it is protected childhood, it is the future.”
Alejandro Izuzquiza
Izuzquiza received the Julio Castelo Matrán International Insurance Award for his study on Spain’s unique public–private insurance collaboration model. He described the award as “the best possible way to end my career, after 44 years defending the general interest, protecting policyholders, and promoting collaboration between public and private insurance.”