Colombian leaders receive national awards for child welfare

Several Colombian officials were honored at the XIV edition of the ‘Gobernantes comprometidos con la Niñez y la Adolescencia’ awards in Bogotá. The ceremony, organized by the Corporación Juego y Niñez, recognizes leaders for their commitment to the rights and well-being of children and adolescents.

Johana Aranda, the Mayor of Ibagué, received the award for the second consecutive year. Her administration was noted for initiatives such as the ‘Gabinete Kids’, a program where child representatives participate in municipal government councils to provide perspectives on public policy.

In the Huila region, Governor Rodrigo Villalba and Neiva Mayor Germán Casagua were also recognized. Casagua received the distinction for the second year in a row, highlighting efforts to create safe and inclusive environments for youth. Villalba shared his recognition with his wife, Ángela Parra, the department's social manager, for her work regarding childhood welfare.