Queen Sofía of Spain once again took center stage in international cultural life, presiding over one of the most significant events in the relationship between the Spanish-speaking world and the United States. The Queen traveled specifically to Miami to lead the presentation of the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute’s Sophia Awards for Excellence, held at the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). This evening underscored the importance of cultural diplomacy in an increasingly interconnected world.
In its 2026 edition, the awards recognized two couples whose careers have left a lasting mark in the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean: real estate developer and art collector Jorge M. Pérez and Darlene Pérez, as well as Dominican entrepreneurs Frank Rainieri and Haydée Rainieri.
With over 350 guests, including cultural leaders, philanthropists, and public figures, the gala solidified its position as a highlight of the international calendar, in a city that, like few others, embodies the convergence of identities and traditions.
Organized by the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute, the Sophia Awards for Excellence (formerly known as the Gold Medal) have recognized figures such as Bill Clinton, Henry Kissinger, Plácido Domingo, Penélope Cruz, Carolina Herrera, Mario Vargas Llosa, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, Carlos Slim, José Andrés, and Gustavo Dudamel over the years. This is proof of the recognition’s reach and prestige. As its president, Pilar Lladó, summarized: “The awards given by the QSSI are not merely honorary recognitions. They are a way of acknowledging those who have dedicated their talent, creativity, and leadership to building bridges.”
In this spirit, the awardees embody a vision of success linked to social and cultural impact. Jorge M. Pérez, one of the most influential figures in urban development in South Florida, emphasized art as a tool for connection and dialogue: “It is a true honor to receive this recognition from the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute, especially in a city like Miami, where diverse cultures converge to create a vibrant global community. For Darlene and me, art has always been deeply personal, but its greatest impact lies in being shared: uniting people and fostering dialogue. We are proud to support greater visibility for Latin American artists in Europe and for contemporary Spanish art in the United States, and we are deeply grateful to be part of a global community that values cultural exchange.”
For her part, Darlene Pérez has spearheaded initiatives in health, education, and culture for over three decades, establishing a consistent and far-reaching philanthropic presence in the community.
