Tenerife’s rural communities have plenty of people working hard to protect local traditions, support farming and find new ways to keep the countryside thriving. Six of them have now been recognised at the 13th Tenerife Rural Awards, held at La Casa del Vino.
Organised by the Cabildo’s Department of the Primary Sector through the Tenerife Rural Foundation, the awards recognise people and organisations making a difference to the island’s agriculture, heritage, biodiversity and rural economy.
The ceremony was presided over by Cabildo vice-president Lope Afonso and Primary Sector councillor Valentín González. Alongside celebrating the winners, the event highlighted the importance of encouraging younger generations to take up rural professions and ensuring traditional skills are not lost.
This year’s awards covered several areas, from biodiversity and rural heritage to research, business innovation and the contribution of women to agriculture.
Protecting farming traditions and biodiversity
Adasat Valentín Dorta was recognised for combining beekeeping with organic production and environmental education. Telesforo Rodríguez Pérez was honoured for a long career preserving traditional livestock farming, agriculture and crafts.
Candelaria Fariña Hernández, known as Lala, received the award for preserving agricultural and maritime heritage and rural traditions. Her work with the Pinolere fairs and her efforts to pass on the knowledge of older generations to younger people were singled out for recognition.
Innovation and research in the countryside
Roberto Rodríguez Rodríguez won the award for innovative and sustainable rural business. His work demonstrates how traditional farming methods and technical innovation can work together to make the sector more competitive.
The research and promotion of rural values award was shared by Iván González Gómez, recognised for helping people understand the island’s history and landscapes, and Yaiza González Hernández, whose work focuses on oral traditions, folklore and protecting traditional thatched farm buildings, known as pajares.
Recognising a lifetime of work
The Tenerife Rural Woman award went to Nieves Mora Barrera, who has spent more than 50 years working in organic agriculture, championing local produce and supporting the values of the Tierra y Vida association.
Her long-standing commitment makes her a powerful example of the dedication involved in keeping local agriculture going.
These awards are a reminder that Tenerife’s rural identity depends on people who put in the work, often over decades, to preserve its landscapes, skills and traditions while helping the sector adapt for the future.