It has been a true pleasure to take part in the 25th anniversary of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science program alongside so many inspiring colleagues who, like me, deeply believe in the transformative power of science and in female talent as a driving force for change.

This program — which has been recognizing scientific excellence among women researchers in Spain for over two decades — is much more than a grant: it’s a strong commitment to making our work visible, advancing our careers, and proving that a more inclusive and diverse science is not only possible, but necessary.

I would like to wholeheartedly congratulate this year’s awardees. It’s truly moving to see how their projects, full of innovation and social commitment, represent the very best of young research talent in Spain.

Thank you to L’Oréal Spain, the Spanish National Commission for UNESCO, and the Women and Science Unit of the Ministry of Science and Innovation for continuing to believe in us — in our journeys and in the impact we can have as women scientists.

Programs like this one not only recognize effort and excellence — they also give us visibility, connect us with one another, and motivate us to keep going, even through the most difficult moments of a research career.

Celebrating this anniversary alongside so many remarkable women in their fields — and with the Minister of Science, Diana Morant — was both moving and hopeful. It reminds us that every step we take helps pave the way for those who come after us. And that, without a doubt, is the most valuable part of all.