The VIII edition of the awards, inspired by the unforgettable figure of Pablo Ráez, recently announced this year's winners at the Cervezas San Miguel brewery in Málaga, the official sponsor of Málaga CF. Here they are!
Social Entity Awards 2025
AFESOL
The Association of Relatives and People with Mental Illness of the Costa del Sol (AFESOL), based in Benalmádena Costa, is a non-profit social organisation founded more than 25 years ago, in 1999.
This association is made up of families and individuals affected by mental illness, working together to find solutions to the challenges posed by these conditions. Its mission is to promote initiatives that improve the quality of life of those affected by mental health disorders, as well as their loved ones.
Fundación Hogar Abierto
A Málaga-based organisation committed to the rights of children and families, with a qualified and interdisciplinary team that upholds essential ethical values such as responsibility, honesty, and sensitivity toward the people they support.
With internationally renowned Málaga-born baritone Carlos Álvarez as Honorary President and Alberto Peláez serving as President, this foundation brings together social workers, psychologists, psycho-pedagogues, lawyers, social educators, administrative technicians, and quality management specialists focused on family and child care.
Fundación El Pimpi
Talking about Bodega El Pimpi is talking about Málaga. And Fundación El Pimpi shines a light on more than half a century of social and cultural work by one of the city's most iconic establishments. Its main mission is to generate and promote cultural, traditional, and solidarity-driven movements, engaging artists, projects, and organisations with a passion for local heritage. As José Cobos, founder of El Pimpi, puts it: “We must look society in the eye, not to offer charity, but to show the way.”
Enthusiasm, excellence, creativity, and love define the foundation's work. A benchmark for NGOs, public institutions, and businesses in Málaga, its reach knows no borders when it comes to promoting local traditions, gastronomy, and culture, all while contributing to the betterment of Málaga’s society.
Abdallah Ben Barek Award
María Torres
The Málaga-born athlete, a global reference in karate, is a true example of values and dedication, with a sporting and personal journey marked by perseverance and success.
She has made history in her discipline by recently defending her title at the Premier League in Paris. Established as one of the top figures in the international circuit, her competitiveness has led her to become the first Spanish woman to reach the world number one ranking in the Kumite (+68 kg) category.
María Torres continues to shine at the highest level of international karate. A team world champion and individual runner-up in 2023, she has reached the podium in the last five top-tier competitions she has competed in. Her impressive track record includes two world titles, an individual world silver medal, a silver and bronze at the European Games, as well as one gold and three bronze medals in European Championships.
At just 27 years old, María Torres continues to prove that perseverance, sacrifice, and passion are the pillars of success. Her story inspires an entire generation of athletes and is a source of pride for Málaga and Spanish sports. A true example of dedication and resilience.
#SiempreFuerte Special Award
Berni Rodríguez
An iconic figure in Spanish basketball and an undisputed reference in Málaga sports, his legacy at Unicaja Baloncesto de Málaga is undeniable. Serving as an Ambassador and former team captain, he spent 13 seasons with the club, earning the honour of having his number 5 jersey retired at the José María Martín Carpena Arena. His Liga and Copa titles with Unicaja, along with his historic contribution to the Spanish National Team, with whom he won gold at the 2006 World Championship, cement his status as a true legend of Spanish basketball.
Berni, an example of dedication, values, and commitment on the court, has also created a true hub of sporting and social integration off the court through his Academia 675, using basketball as the vehicle for change. Together with his father, Bernardo Rodríguez, they have built a unique style where fun and team spirit are at the heart of Proyecto 675, a prominent project in Spanish basketball.
His love for basketball goes beyond titles and recognitions. After retiring as a player, he accumulated experience in sports management and as a commentator for RTVE, using his expertise and knowledge to serve the new generations.
The #SiempreFuerte Special Award highlights not only his professional career but, above all, his personal journey as one of the most beloved and charismatic athletes from Málaga. A true symbol, Berni Rodríguez.