Today, at the Embassy of Mexico to the Holy See, Mónica Santamarina, President General of the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organisations (WUCWO), received the Ohtli Award, the highest distinction granted by the Government of Mexico — through the Institute for Mexicans Abroad (IME) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs — to nationals who, from abroad, open paths for the Mexican community around the world.
H.E. Mr. Alberto Barranco Chavarría Ambassador of Mexico to the Holy See, highlighted Mónica Santamarina’s “dedication to women, especially the most vulnerable,” and emphasised that her leadership of WUCWO represents “an example and a source of inspiration for many Mexican women.” He also stressed that WUCWO’s social commitment and global work for the empowerment of women make it “an allied institution in the Church’s mission for integral human development,” adding that “they bring great honour to the name of our country.”
Upon receiving the award, Mónica Santamarina, President General of WUCWO, emphasised that the recognition is not personal, “but on behalf of the institution I represent, WUCWO,” dedicating it “to the more than 8 million women who are part of it and who, from different corners of the world — often in extremely difficult circumstances — work tirelessly for peace, justice, and human dignity, especially for women.” At the conclusion of her speech, the President stated: “May this award be an encouragement to continue serving, to keep dreaming, and to keep building, with renewed commitment, paths of hope for women and for all those who seek a more dignified life.”
Lavinia Rocchi Carrera, Secretary General of WUCWO, also expressed gratitude for the award: “We proudly celebrate the awarding of this recognition to our President General, Mónica, whose dedication and commitment inspire us every day. This award is also a tribute to all the women of WUCWO who, with tireless dedication, accompany, support, and transform the lives of other women. The Ohtli will remain a milestone in the history of our organisation, reaffirming our mission of service and promotion of the integral development of women in society and in the Church.”
About the Ohtli Award
Created by the Institute for Mexicans Abroad, the Ohtli Award — whose name comes from the Nahuatl word meaning “path” or “trail” — honours those who open paths for the Mexican community abroad. It is the highest distinction granted by the Government of Mexico to leaders who contribute to the advancement, visibility, and well-being of Mexicans living outside the country. Its presentation at the Vatican holds special significance due to the deep, historic, and close relationship between Mexico, the Holy See, and the Catholic Church.
WUCWO Communication Office
