The distinction, now in its twenty-second edition, recognizes Sánchez Silva's professional career, media presence, and connection to the world of fashion and design, making her an ambassador for Elda's women's footwear. The mayor of Elda, Rubén Alfaro, announced the winner's name today.
The Best Shoemaker of Spain Award is an honorary title established in 2000 with the support of filmmaker Luis García Berlanga. The award recognizes women of renowned social and professional prestige, who serve for one year as ambassadors for footwear manufactured in Elda, promoting the quality and tradition of local firms.
This year's gala will be held under the theme ‘Voces que dejan huella’ (Voices that leave a mark), aiming to highlight the professionals and crafts that drive Elda's footwear industry. The ceremony, scheduled for 8:00 PM, will gather industry personalities, institutional representatives, and media, concluding with a cocktail reception at the Casino Eldense.
“"It is a satisfaction to have Raquel Sánchez Silva this year, a professional with a widely recognized career and a special connection to the world of fashion and design, who will help us continue to showcase the talent and quality of our footwear."
“"This edition, we want to pay special tribute to the people who make our industry possible, to those professionals who, with their effort, knowledge, and experience, have made Elda a benchmark for footwear. Because behind every shoe, there are many hands and many stories that deserve recognition, and that is precisely the spirit of ‘Voces que dejan huella’."
In a video message, Raquel Sánchez Silva expressed her excitement for the award and highlighted her personal connection to the footwear sector, describing it as "so beautiful and so difficult." She thanked the Elda City Council and the Museum of Footwear Foundation, and expressed her desire to reunite soon in Elda to celebrate Spanish craftsmanship.
Raquel Sánchez Silva, a trained journalist, has hosted numerous successful television formats such as ‘Pekín Express’, ‘Supervivientes’, and ‘Maestros de la costura’, strengthening her ties to fashion. She has also published several books, including ‘Mañana, a las seis’.
