On December 11, 2024, the Valencian Society of Agriculture and Sport (RSVAD) hosted its prestigious VI Edition of the Illustrious Awards. The event, held at the historic Casino de Agricultura, recognized individuals and organizations making significant contributions to agriculture and sport in Valencia.

The awards spanned five categories:

• Merit for Sport: Awarded to the Levante CF Foundation for its groundbreaking work in inclusivity. Since 2012, the Foundation has spearheaded programmes for individuals with disabilities, boasting the largest football school for functional diversity within a professional football club in Spain.

• Assistance Merit: The Pequeño Deseo Foundation was celebrated for fulfilling nearly 7,000 wishes of children with chronic illnesses, providing emotional support that significantly improves their well-being.

• Institutional Merit: INCLIVA Health Research Institute received recognition for 25 years of advancing health research. Its studies, including collaborations on the health benefits of citrus-based diets, underline its dedication to improving lives.

• Business Merit: Tomates Lis, a family-run business, was lauded for its innovation in sustainable cherry tomato production. Its pioneering greenhouses in Mutxamell set benchmarks in crop innovation and environmentally friendly practices.

• Agricultural and Natural Environment Merit: The Committee for Organic Agriculture of the Valencian Community (CAECV) was honoured for promoting sustainable agriculture, ensuring certified organic products meet EU standards while advocating for eco-friendly living.

The event began with a warm welcome by Manuel Sánchez Luengo, president of the Casino de Agricultura. Jury members, including leaders in agriculture and academia, emphasized the awards’ role in fostering ethical progress and innovation across sectors.

Founded in 1859, RSVAD continues to uphold its legacy of cultural and agricultural advocacy. This year’s honorees exemplify the organization’s mission to bridge tradition and progress, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for Valencia.

Report by Edward Tillman

Article copyright ‘24/7 Valencia’