The Taburiente Awards, now in their 10th edition, have become much more than a celebration of talent. Over the past decade, the DIARIO DE AVISOS Foundation has transformed the event into a symbol of excellence, memory, and civic responsibility, paying tribute to individuals and groups whose work in culture, research, literature, journalism, and the arts pushes society forward.
The 2025 edition will be marked by both celebration and solemnity, with the awards gala scheduled for 30 October at the Teatro Leal in La Laguna, broadcast on a delayed basis by Atlántico Televisión.
Special Mention: Children Affected by War
The jury’s special mention this year goes to “children affected by war”, at a time when hundreds of thousands of boys and girls across the world are victims of armed conflict.
- They suffer displacement, denial of basic rights, hunger, mutilation, and violence.
- Schools, hospitals, and humanitarian access are routinely attacked or denied.
- The recognition is intended not as charity, but as a call to conscience and a denunciation of unfulfilled obligations by states and international organisations.
This distinction seeks to give visibility and dignity to the most vulnerable victims of our era, reminding us that even from the Canary Islands, solidarity can be global.
The 2025 Honorees
Maribel Nazco – Artist
Born in La Palma in 1938, Nazco is one of the great pioneers of contemporary Canarian art.
- Known for her innovative use of metallic materials in the late 1960s and 70s.
- Leader in the Nuestro Arte group, bringing Canary Islands art into international avant-garde circles.
- Later pursued a career in painting and teaching, becoming dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts at the University of La Laguna.
- Her works, from Iconos de la ciudad to Jardín de los desechos, address urban and environmental issues with boldness and sensitivity.
- Recipient of the Canary Islands Fine Arts Award and the Community of Madrid Plastic Arts Award.
Rafa Méndez – Choreographer and Dancer
From Puerto de la Cruz, Méndez has become one of Spain’s most recognisable dance figures.
- International career spanning Italy, UK, and the US, collaborating with stars like Raffaella Carrà, the Spice Girls, Tiziano Ferro, and others.
- Television fame through Fama, ¡a bailar!, The Dancer, and Pequeños gigantes.
- Creator of shows like Los 7 de Rafa Méndez and Canarias no solo plátanos, highlighting Canarian culture and nurturing young talent.
Santiago González Suárez – Journalist
Born in La Orotava in 1970, González is a reference in Spanish journalism.
- Directed Radio Nacional de España (2007) and later Televisión Española (2010), credited with removing advertising from public TV.
- Currently director general of news at Atres Media, whose news programmes lead national viewership.
- Known for his rigour, leadership, and vision, his career highlights the role of journalism in shaping public trust and social change.
Félix Sabroso – Film Director
A Las Palmas-born filmmaker, Sabroso has had an eclectic career across film, TV, and theatre.
- With the late Dunia Ayaso, created cult films like Perdona bonita, pero Lucas me quería a mí and La isla interior.
- TV projects include Mujeres, Veneno, and Mentiras Pasajeras.
- Recent global success with Furia, released in 128 countries.
- His works combine black humour, irony, and social critique, establishing him as a bold and transformative voice.
José Manuel Ramos – Musician
A cornerstone of Canarian folklore and Latin music, Ramos has built a career rooted in tradition and reinvention.
- Former member of Los Sabandeños, recording 14 albums in 12 years.
- Founder of the Parranda de Cantadores, bridging generations through music.
- Solo career with five albums and dozens of collaborations.
- His 2025 documentary series Orígenes cements him as a guardian of Canarian musical identity.
SUR FILM – Production Company
Founded in Tenerife in 2006, SUR FILM is Spain’s leading audiovisual services company for international productions.
- Partnered with major studios: Marvel, Disney, Warner Bros, Universal, Netflix, BBC.
- Credits include The Eternals, Wonder Woman: 1984, Fast & Furious 6, Jason Bourne, and Solo: A Star Wars Story.
- Provides training for local professionals and strengthens the audiovisual industry in Spain.
Moncho Borrajo – Playwright and Humorist
Born in Orense in 1949, Borrajo is a legend of Spanish theatre and humour.
- Began as a fine artist but became a national figure on stage and TV (Un, Dos, Tres).
- Known for sharp, tender, socially critical humour.
- Has deep ties to Tenerife, where he resides and continues to create.
Nia – Singer
Nia Correia, born in Las Palmas in 1994, represents the new generation of Canarian talent.
- Winner of Operación Triunfo 2020.
- Successful fusion of Latin rhythms, pop, and Canarian influences.
- Appeared in Netflix’s Érase una vez… pero ya no and finalist in Tu cara me suena.
- Winner of Best International Performer at the 2025 Viña del Mar Festival.
José Fernando Cabrera – Businessman
Visionary entrepreneur in the tourism sector.
- Founded Golf Resort Group in 1988, later developing landmark projects including the Royal River Luxury Hotel & Spa, awarded Best Hotel in Spain.
- Advocate for sustainable tourism and airport development.
- His work combines innovation, excellence, and family legacy, leaving a mark on Tenerife’s tourism model.
