José Ríos Márquez receives the CaixaBank Wealth Management Philanthropy Award for his social commitment.

Corporate philanthropy has established itself as an effective tool to promote social and environmental transformation. Within this framework, José Ríos Márquez, founder of the textile company Rioma and president of the foundations Universal Social y Somos Naturalezahas been awarded the CaixaBank Wealth Management Philanthropy Award in the Andalusia Territorial Division. The award, presented on November 4 in Barcelona, recognizes his career of solidarity and his commitment to the most vulnerable people and to the sustainability of the planet.

The prize, worth 5,000 euros, will be used to strengthen the social initiatives led by the winner. The award was presented by Jesús Garrido-Arroquia, commercial director of CaixaBank Wealth Management in Andalusia, who highlighted Ríos Márquez’s ability to mobilize business and family around a model of philanthropy with real impact, both locally and internationally.

A model of social commitment that integrates business, society and environment

For more than three decades, José Ríos has managed to consolidate a philanthropic action network that combines social vocation, environmental sustainability and active participation in the environment. The Universal Social Foundation, established in 1993, promotes educational development, community health, food security and employment projects in Andalusia and in numerous impoverished countries. The Somos Naturaleza Foundation focuses its work on environmental regeneration through organic vegetable gardens, seed banks, reforestation, environmental training and land stewardship.

Both entities have already benefited more than 500,000 people in 27 countries, returning hundreds of hectares to nature and generating long-term sustainable opportunities. These initiatives are backed by a consolidated professional team, a stable network of volunteers and the constant support of the awardee’s family and company.

During the ceremony, Garrido-Arroquia emphasized that “this award is a well-deserved recognition of his dedication and example,” pointing out the relevance of his continued contribution over time and his ability to form a philanthropic ecosystem with impact and social commitment.

Solidarity as an engine of life

José Ríos Márquez publicly thanked for the distinction received, highlighting the value of solidarity as a vital and ethical pillar. “Since I was very young I have believed that solidarity is the path to good living and that money is not the absolute value. I have always been clear about the need to give back to society part of what I have achieved as a businessman,” he said.

Proud of the results achieved, he expressed his gratitude to the human team of both foundations and to his family for their constant involvement. In his final words, he left a reflection that sums up his vision: “The best future only depends on our present full of life. May many more people and companies join in this path of life”.