Introduction
Vaccination saves lives and is a crucial tool in public health, but its success hinges on the dedicated individuals and organizations working tirelessly to bring prevention to every corner of the nation. Sanofi Mexico recognized these champions by hosting the 11th edition of the “Vacunar para dar oportunidades” (Vaccinate to Create Opportunities) awards, honoring those who promote immunization for the benefit of communities.
The Importance of Vaccination and the Role of the Awards
Since its inception, this prestigious award has become a benchmark for highlighting the efforts of professionals, institutions, and change agents dedicated to ensuring safe and timely access to vaccines. The project has evolved alongside prevention strategies and strengthened healthcare services in Mexico.
Key Challenges and Forum
As part of the event, an intersectoral forum was held, bringing together representatives from the National Center for Child and Adolescent Health (CeNSIA), the Secretariat of Economy, the National Polytechnic Institute, Save the Children, and Sanofi. The forum provided a platform for discussing current challenges and opportunities to expand vaccination coverage.
- Participants addressed topics such as population vulnerabilities, national vaccine production, and innovative policies for immunization.
“This award acknowledges the tireless efforts of those who make it possible for vaccines to reach every corner of Mexico. Their work, whether in rural clinics, indigenous communities, urban centers, or digital platforms, is an invaluable contribution to safeguarding our communities’ health,” said Christián Podlesker, General Director of Vaccines at Sanofi LATAM.
Recognized Categories
During the October 30 ceremony, winners of the “Vacunar para dar oportunidades” awards were announced by a multidisciplinary committee validated by Deloitte, ensuring a transparent and objective process.
- Raúl Martínez Mendoza – A Lifetime Dedicated to Vaccination
- Silvano Ramírez Soto – Bringing Vaccination Closer, Overcoming Barriers
- Martín Rosas Peralta – Knowledge that Protects
- Michel Astorga Portugal – Digital Strategies in Vaccination
Each category represents a critical area to strengthen prevention, from individual career paths to technological innovation and scientific knowledge dissemination.
As part of the recognition, award winners will participate in a 2026 Communication in Health Workshop at the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá, Colombia, designed to enhance their skills and amplify the impact of their projects.
A Decade of Evolution
The “Vacunar para dar oportunidades” awards began in 2015 with two categories and expanded to four in 2018, reflecting the diversity of actors promoting immunization in Mexico and changes in vaccine communication, distribution, and application methods.
The platform symbolizes a collaboration plan among those committed to making vaccines accessible to everyone. Its presence for over a decade affirms Sanofi’s dedication to public health.
Moreover, the awards have established a working network connecting various societal sectors around vaccination. Its significance lies not only in the recognitions but also in fostering dialogue and generating ongoing collaborative solutions.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the “Vacunar para dar oportunidades” awards? An annual recognition event organized by Sanofi Mexico to honor individuals and organizations promoting immunization and making vaccines accessible across Mexico.
- Who are the 2025 winners?
- Raúl Martínez Mendoza: Lifetime Dedication to Vaccination
- Silvano Ramírez Soto: Bringing Vaccination Closer, Overcoming Barriers
- Martín Rosas Peralta: Knowledge that Protects
- Michel Astorga Portugal: Digital Strategies in Vaccination
- What does the future hold for the award winners? Winners will participate in a 2026 Communication in Health Workshop at the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá, Colombia.
For more information about the awards and its laureates, visit www.premiovacunarparadaroportunidades.mx.
