The Cabildo of Lanzarote hosted the third annual Senior Citizens Gala on Friday at the Monument to the Farmer Museum. The event brought together institutional representatives, social associations, professionals, families, and elderly individuals to celebrate nine outstanding contributions to senior welfare, care, inclusion, and active ageing.
Organised by the Department of Seniors and Intergenerational Relations, the gala highlighted various ways to improve the quality of life for the elderly and enhance their social participation. The evening featured musical performances by Ciro Corujo, who opened and closed the event.
Cabildo President Oswaldo Betancort praised the honorees and stressed the importance of elderly individuals as integral to both the present and future of Lanzarote and La Graciosa. “Our seniors represent not only our memory but also remain active participants in the society we build each day. Their experiences and contributions form a significant part of Lanzarote’s and La Graciosa’s human heritage,” he said.
Betancort underscored that the awards reflected “a profoundly grateful society” and highlighted that a community’s progress should be measured by how it cares for its older members and transmits values to younger generations. He insisted that older people’s engagement in public and community life “cannot be seen as a mere addition, but a guarantee for building a more inclusive, just, and supportive island.”
Vice-President María Jesús Tovar emphasised the human aspect of the awards, recognising the vital contributions from institutions, social entities, associations, and families. “This gala gives visibility to many stories usually built quietly: caregivers, accompanying professionals, associations fostering community, and projects combating loneliness while promoting an active life. Acknowledging them reflects the kind of society we aspire to create for Lanzarote and La Graciosa,” she stated.
Nori Machín, Councillor for Seniors and Intergenerational Relations, highlighted that the third edition of the gala goes beyond merely handing out awards. “We want seniors to have a voice, meeting spaces, opportunities to engage, and the ability to influence issues that affect them. This gala is a recognition and a reminder that our policies should be built by listening to them and involving them,” she affirmed. Machín also thanked the contributions of associations, caregivers, and families who work with this community year-round.
Awards Presented
Antonio Pérez received the Senior Citizen of the Year award for his personal commitment and solidarity. The Senior Citizens Association of Tías (ASOMAVO) was recognised as the best association after over 20 years of dedicated service. The Best Active Ageing Project award went to ‘Healthy Walks’, an initiative from Lanzarote’s Primary Care Directorate aimed at promoting physical activity and social interaction.
Trinidad García Hernández was recognised as a dedicated caregiver, while the Isla de los Volcanes Day Centre – Maraua Services was named the best care centre. Agustina María García Delgado, president of AFA Lanzarote, received the professional award for her commitment and career.
The Intergenerational Project award went to “Tales of the Canary Grandparents,” a collaboration between Charter 100 Canarias and Lanzarote’s Historical Heritage Service, preserving and sharing senior narratives with younger generations. EMERLAN, the Volunteer Association for Emergencies and Rescue, was honoured for its community service commitment, while Charlemos, a peer support programme for older LGBTQ+ individuals, was awarded for its contributions against loneliness.
Promoting Active Ageing
The gala is part of the Cabildo’s policies under the +Vital Active Ageing Plan, which includes initiatives such as Playa Fit and the Cognitive Olympics, aimed at improving physical, emotional, and social wellness for seniors. The evening concluded with a group photograph of all awardees and a final performance by Ciro Corujo, celebrating the participation and contributions of the elderly to Lanzarote and La Graciosa.
