SOLTRA celebrates its 25th anniversary as an organization that has uniquely combined the value of social commitment with the rigor and efficiency of the business world. Over these twenty-five years, it has become an essential point of reference in our province, not only for what it does, but also for how it does it—always placing people at the heart of its activity.
From the Territorial Delegation of the Regional Government of Castilla y León in León, we would like to pay special tribute to this exemplary trajectory. We are not speaking merely of assistance or integration, but of a true social transformation. Because SOLTRA not only creates jobs for people with disabilities—it also generates dignity, autonomy, and community. And it does so in ongoing collaboration with the regional administration, within the framework of the Integrated Pathways Program for the Social and Labor Inclusion of People with Disabilities, which brings together organizations that, like SOLTRA, make the principles of equity, inclusion, and social cohesion a reality.
Eduardo Diego Pinedo
Territorial Delegate
... With each challenge overcome, they have shown that disability does not define anyone, and that talent, responsibility, and dedication are shared without distinction.
This model of public-private cooperation proves that it is possible to build a better society through the union of shared wills. The Regional Government of Castilla y León has been working for years with Third Sector organizations to facilitate access to employment for the most vulnerable groups. On this path, SOLTRA has been—and continues to be—an indispensable ally. Its workplaces, spread across different areas of the region, are living examples that inclusion is not only an ideal, but a daily, effective, and replicable practice. Twenty-five years is not something achieved every day. In that time, hundreds of people with diverse abilities have found in SOLTRA an opportunity to develop both professionally and personally. And with every contract, every training program, every challenge overcome, they have shown that disability does not define anyone—that talent, responsibility, and dedication are shared without distinction.
In this celebration, it is also right to remember those who first gave life to this dream. The figure of Antonino Fernández remains a guiding light for all of us who believe that business can—
and must—serve the common good. His legacy, carried forward by a committed and professional team, lives on in every initiative born of SOLTRA.
Today, more than ever, we need examples such as this organization to face the challenges of our time. Inclusion, sustainability, decent work, and equal opportunity are the pillars of an advanced society. And in León, thanks to SOLTRA, these pillars stand strong.
That is why, as the Territorial Delegate of the Regional Government in León, I wish to convey not only my congratulations, but also my commitment. We will continue to support projects that put people first, that dignify work, and that build community. Because only in this way—hand in hand with organizations such as SOLTRA—will we continue making Castilla y León a land of opportunity for all.
Congratulations on these 25 years. And thank you, wholeheartedly, for showing us that solidarity and work can always go hand in hand.
SOLTRA receives the ASELE Award for Equality 2025
At SOLTRA, we are celebrating. We have been honored with the ASELE Equality Award 2025, a distinction granted by the Association of Women Entrepreneurs and Executives of León (ASELE), which recognizes our commitment to equal opportunities, social inclusion, and diversity in the workplace.
The award ceremony took place on June 12 during ASELE’s General Assembly, at a very special event that brought together more than one hundred people and enjoyed strong institutional support. Among the attendees were the Mayor of León, José Antonio Diez; Senator Asunción Mayo; the President of FELE, Juan María Vallejo; and the President of the Chamber of Commerce, Javier Vega, along with other representatives from León’s economic and social spheres.
On behalf of SOLTRA, the award was received by María Teresa Cela, Head of the Labor and Equality Department, who expressed her gratitude with heartfelt words:
“It is especially eaningful to receive this award here, in our homeland, and in this year when we are celebrating SOLTRA’s 25th anniversary. We will continue working to ensure that diversity, equality, and non-discrimination remain fundamental pillars of our organization.”
This recognition strengthens our commitment to creating jobs for people with disabilities and encourages us to keep moving forward toward fairer, more humane, and more sustainable workplaces.
Since 2019, we have had an Equality Plan endorsed by the Óptima distinction from the Regional Government of Castilla y León. Now, with the new plan in place until 2027, we reaffirm and expand our goal of building a more inclusive and respectful work environment for everyone.
During the event, ASELE also presented the projects it will launch to continue promoting female leadership and strengthening networks among women entrepreneurs and exe-
cutives. Among them is the upcoming EDA Congress, which will bring women leaders from across the Atlantic to León.
Noelia Rodríguez, President of ASELE, highlighted the association’s growth, which now has 130 women members, and emphasized:
“We continue to grow thanks to the determination of all of us who are already part of ASELE. We are women building León’s business community.”
For his part, FELE President Juan María Vallejo stressed the importance of moving toward more inclusive business models:
“It is not only about giving space to women in business. It is about building, together, a better, more competitive, and fairer business model—and with ASELE, we are achieving it.”
At SOLTRA, we are deeply grateful for this recognition, which drives us to continue working every day with a clear mission: to create real opportunities for all people.
Award Ceremony of the Micro - Story contest
Be an Incluencer
This June, at SOLTRA we held the award ceremony of the micro-story contest “Be an Incluencer,” an initiative that marked the conclusion of the inclusion campaign carried out throughout this school year with sixth-grade students.
Under the motto “What does it mean to be an Incluencer?”, more than 1,000 students from León, its province, and a school in Madrid took part in the initiative. The goal was to encourage them to reflect and write about inclusion and disability, fostering empathy, creativity, and a commitment to a fairer society.
As part of the campaign, participating students had previously visited our facilities in La Virgen del Camino, where they were able to see first-hand the work that SOLTRA carries out as a social economy company. During the visit, they learned how we create employment opportunities for people with disabilities and the positive impact this has
on their lives and the community. It was an enriching experience that allowed them to see inclusion in a real and close way. The winner of the contest was Noa Fuertes de la Iglesia, from Trepalio School, with a very moving micro-story that reminds us that inclusion can also be found in the small gestures of everyday life:
“At the party everyone was dancing, but only when she arrived in her wheelchair did they understand that inclusion is also rhythm.”
Vi fejrede prisuddelingen for mikrohistorie-konkurrencen “Hazte Incluencer” (“Bliv en Incluencer”), et initiativ der markerede den store finale på inklusionskampagnen, som blev gennemført i løbet af dette skoleår med elever i sjette klasse.
Under temaet “Hvad vil det sige at være en Incluencer?” deltog mere end 1.000 elever fra León, den omkringliggende provins og nogle skoler i Madrid i initiativet. Vinderen af konkurrencen var Noa Fuertes de la Iglesia fra Trepalio-skolen. Noa og finalisterne deltog i skabelsen af et fælles vægmaleri sammen med gadekunstneren Toño Prada, som nu er udstillet på vores SOLTRA-faciliteter. Dette kunstværk repræsenterer forskellige former for handicap.
In addition to Noa, twelve students were selected as finalists for the quality and message of their stories, which addressed topics such as equality, respect, empathy, and the importance of living together with diversity.
As the grand finale, the winner and the finalists took part in the creation of a collaborative mural together with urban artist Toño Prada, which is now on display at our SOLTRA facilities.
This artistic work represents different types of disability:
• Motor, related to difficulties in moving or getting around.
• Sensory, affecting the senses, such as sight or hearing.
• Intellectual, influencing the way of learning, communicating, or solving problems.
• Psychosocial, linked to mental health and emotional well-being.
Each part of the mural conveys a clear message of inclu-
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sion, respect, and visibility, reminding us that all people, regardless of their abilities, have unique and valuable talents to contribute to society.
At SOLTRA, we would like to thank all the schools, teachers, and students for their enthusiasm, involvement, and commitment to this campaign.
Name School
Noa Fuertes de la Iglesia (Ganadora) CEIP Trepalio
Vera Carrizo Perandones (Finalista) CEIP Carrizo de la Ribera
María Fernández-Llamazares Mc Laughlin (Finalista)
Colegio Divina Pastora
Xulia Torrente Fernández (Finalista) Colegio La Asunción
Sara Marcos López (Finalista) Colegio Leonés
Carolina García Rodríguez (Finalista) Colegio Leonés
Lucia Valbuena Urizama (Finalista) Colegio Marista San José
Samuel Fernández Martínez (Finalista) Colegio Santa Teresa
Lola Gallego Alonso (Finalista) CEIP Teleno
Rafael Fernández Escudero (Finalista)
Colegio Leonés
Julia Muñoz Turón (Finalista) CEIP San Claudio
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SOLTRA strengthens its presence in Denmark through participation in Vestas Blue Marlin project
On May 19, SOLTRA sent a team of workers from Spain to Denmark to collaborate on the preparation of fiberglass components for Vestas’ innovative Blue Marlin V236-15.0 MW prototype.
The modularly designed Blue Marlin nacelle incorporates customized boxes to house equipment and spare parts for maintenance, enabling the optimization of operations in offshore wind turbines located in remote areas. This approach allows for a more efficient and tailored response to each customer’s needs.
With a span of 236 meters, a single Blue Marlin turbine is capable of generating up to 80 GWh of electricity per year, equivalent to the annual consumption of approximately 18,000 households. This technology represents a significant breakthrough in the large-scale production of clean and sustainable energy.
Wind energy, one of the most efficient renewable sources on the planet, plays a key role in the energy transition toward a decarbonized economic model. Thanks to its ability to convert the kinetic energy of the wind into electricity without producing polluting emissions or consuming fossil resources, it stands out as a strategic solution for the future of energy. Vestas, a global leader in wind energy solutions with more than 40 years of experience, remains firmly committed to innovation and sustainability.
The Blue Marlin V236-15.0 MW turbine is one of its most ambitious ventures in the offshore segment, designed to maximize energy output and reduce operating costs in demanding environments.
This model is manufactured at Vestas’ facilities in Denmark and Poland. The first set produced at SOLTRA Aps’ facilities is already ready for shipment in June.
Since its establishment in Denmark in 2019, SOLTRA Aps, located in the town of Tim, has consolidated its position as a strategic subcontractor for Vestas. While operating under market conditions, SOLTRA stands out for its nature as a social economy enterprise, committed to the labor inclusion of people with disabilities and vulnerable groups. What began with an initial team of eight people has today grown into a workforce of more than 40 professionals.
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Expansion in the laundry: we are adding a next generation tunnel washer
This June, SOLTRA reinforces its commitment to quality and efficiency with the incorporation of a new washing tunnel at its facilities. The equipment, manufactured by KANNEGISSER, consists of 10 modules with a capacity of 60 kilos each, completely transforming the usual washing process.
Until now, the laundry carried out a discontinuous process using individual washing machines with spin cycles. With this new machinery, the company is moving towards a continuous washing system that will double its production capacity, reaching an estimated output of 800 kg of laundry per hour. In addition, the tunnel includes a press to remove excess water, 4 dryers, and an automated conveyor to feed the dryers, streamlining and automating the entire workflow.
Among the major benefits of this innovation are improved ergonomics for workers—who will no longer have to handle garments
manually on a constant basis—and a significant reduction in both energy and water consumption. Specifically, water use drops from approximately 18 liters per kg of laundry in the previous system to just 5 liters per kg, thanks to an advanced recirculation and water recovery system.
This technological leap is part of the company’s growth and modernization journey since the laundry activity began in 2009. What started with a small team of around 10 employees and limited resources has now grown to more than 100 people working in a 2,300 m² industrial facility inaugurated in 2017 in La Virgen del Camino. This plant is equipped with cutting-edge cleaning and sanitization technologies to treat hospital laundry and other garments with high quality standards. A wide variety of textiles are processed there: flat linen such as sheets and covers, terry fabrics (towels, bathrobes), table linens, and work
uniforms—providing a comprehensive service that covers everything from collection to delivery of cleaned and repaired garments. The company also offers a rental service, making it easier for clients to access textile supplies tailored to the specific needs of each establishment.
This development not only represents progress in productivity and sustainability but also reaffirms SOLTRA’s social mission: to promote the labor inclusion of people with disabilities, fostering equal opportunities and dignity in employment. The true driving force behind this project has always been—and continues to be—its people.
25 Years, 25 Colors: This Is How We Paint Our Story
This year, at SOLTRA we are celebrating something very special: our 25th anniversary. It has been 25 years of growth, inclusion, challenges, and achievements, building a shared path among people, countries, and values. And to commemorate this journey, we decided to celebrate art and creativity as a form of collective expression.
This is how the Painting and Photography Contest “25 Years, 25 Colors: Let’s Paint Our Story” was born—an initiative aimed at SOLTRA employees and their families across our locations in Spain, Mexico, and Denmark. The goal was clear: to invite everyone to express, through their own artistic and personal perspective, what SOLTRA means in their lives.
Participation was inspiring from day one. We received works filled with sensitivity, color, commitment, and imagination. It was not easy for the jury to select the winners, since each piece contributed something unique. But in the end, three works stood out for their originality, technique, and above all, their ability to capture the very soul of SOLTRA.
First Prize – Sergio López
Title: “A Story Built Together” Sergio created a mural full of strength and detail. His work depicts a scene where people from different backgrounds work and live together under a large banner: “25 Years of Inclusion – SOLTRA.”
In the foreground, workers with different abilities appear carrying out tasks as a team: technology, logistics, maintenance, administration… everyone has a role, and everyone is important. In the background, some of the most representative monuments from our three locations can be seen, along with the flags of each country crowning the scene beside a sun shining high above. This artwork celebrates our cultural diversity, our international reach, and the richness that arises from cooperation. It is a visual testimony of how inclusion creates value and beauty.
Second Prize – Emily Lemus
Title: “Kites That Unite Us” Emily’s work combines tenderness, symbolism, and a powerful message. In it, we see a child in a wheelchair flying a kite from a green meadow into a blue sky. That kite does not fly alone: it trails colorful ribbons that stretch across continents, connecting places and people. On the kite appears the phrase “25 years SOLTRA”, like an invisible stamp in the sky that sums up our history. This drawing speaks to us of freedom, of dreams that cross borders, and of how SOLTRA has been that guiding thread that unites cultures, abilities, and hearts. The use of color is vibrant yet soft, and the gesture of the child looking to the
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sky reflects hope and wonder. A delicate and soulful tribute to the essence of our mission.
Third Prize – Marta Núñez
Title: “Diversity with a Capital D” Marta’s proposal captivated us with its freshness, spontaneity, and direct message. In comic style, it presents a group of characters with different physical, sensory, and cognitive abilities, all smiling, with joyful expressions and positive gestures. Under the large name “SOLTRA GROUP”, these characters convey a fundamental idea: we are all different, but we are part of the same community.
This contest has undoubtedly been one of the most moving moments of the 25th anniversary. It has not only allowed us to discover hidden talents but also to rediscover who we are through the eyes of those who truly know us.
Each brushstroke, each color, and each line have reflected something deeper: the values we have been upholding for 25 years. Inclusion is not just a goal; it is a way of seeing others, of working together, and of building the future.
We want to thank all the participants, their families, and the team that made this initiative possible. You have reminded us that celebrating 25 years is not only about looking back with pride but also about looking forward with hope.
This anniversary is being painted by all of us together. And the result could not be more beautiful..
People who add up: visits that strengthen Inclusion at CINIA (SOLTRA GROUP Mexico)
At CINIA (SOLTRA GROUP Mexico), we recently welcomed the visit of individuals committed to labor inclusion, social well-being, and cultural exchange. These visits not only allow us to showcase our work model but also to gain allies in our mission to continue generating opportunities for everyone.
One of the first visits was from Juan Carlos Valdez Zayas, General Director of the Puebla State DIF System, who toured our facilities and recognized the efforts that CINIA (SOLTRA GROUP Mexico) has been carrying out for more than 20 years. He highlighted how our company provides dignified employment to people with disabilities, single mothers, older adults, and young graduates from care homes such as Casa de Ángeles, which is part of SEDIF.
During the tour, Valdez Zayas emphasized that CINIA (SOLTRA GROUP Mexico) is a clear example of how people-centered work can transform lives, and he expressed the State DIF’s interest in continuing to collaborate with companies like ours that are committed to genuine inclusion.
We also received a visit from Ceci Arellano, wife of Puebla’s governor, Alejandro Armenta, who has consistently shown her commitment to social causes. She was particularly interested in learning more about our inclusive work model, with the goal of continuing to promote projects that generate real benefits for the most vulnerable sectors of the state.
CINIA (SOLTRA GROUP Mexico) bød for nylig velkommen til vigtige gæster, der støtter inklusion og socialt ansvar.
Juan Carlos Valdez Zayas, leder af DIF i delstaten Puebla, besøgte vores faciliteter og roste vores inkluderende beskæftigelsesmodel for personer med handicap, enlige mødre og andre i sårbare situationer.
Ceci Arellano, hustru til Pueblas guvernør Alejandro Armenta, besøgte os også for at lære mere om vores arbejde og undersøge måder, hvorpå den offentlige sektor kan støtte inklusion.
Vi var også glade for at være værter for Sarah Mueller (Sarita Viajando), en tysk TikToker kendt for at dele sit liv i Mexico. Hendes besøg bidrog til at skabe synlighed omkring vores mission og viste, hvordan sociale medier kan forbinde mennesker og kulturer.
Governor Armenta has expressed on several occasions his interest in strengthening public policies focused on the well-being of Poblano families, and this visit from his wife reflects that same commitment. It was a valuable moment to exchange ideas and continue building bridges with the state government.
Last but not least, we were honored by the visit of Sarah Mueller, better known on social media as Sarita Viajando. Sarah is a young German woman who has gained popularity on TikTok by sharing her experiences. With a warm and
On March 1st, a very special day was celebrated at the American School of Puebla. The Spirit Games took place there, a sports tournament organized by ninth-grade students and designed especially for people with intellectual and multiple disabilities. This edition brought together 250 athletes and 129 volunteers. Among the participants were our colleagues from CINIA (SOLTRA GROUP Mexico), who proudly represented the company… and took first place for the third consecutive year!
The Spirit Games are part of the international Special Olympics program, the largest movement in the world dedicated to people with intellectual disabilities. Its goal is clear: to give these individuals the opportunity to train and compete year-round in Olympic-style sports, helping them improve their health, confidence, and quality of life. Thanks to events like this, barriers are broken, inclusion is promoted, and it is proven that sports are a powerful tool for personal development.
authentic style, she has managed to connect with thousands of people in both Mexico and Germany, showcasing her daily life and the affection she feels for Mexican culture. Her presence was special, as it shows how social media can also serve as a bridge to bring visibility to important issues such as inclusion and respect among cultures. Her interest in learning about what we do and sharing it with her digital community helps more people understand the importance of working toward a more equitable world.
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Through sports, many people discover skills they didn’t know they had, feel part of a team, and, above all, have fun.
Special Olympics was founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver in 1968, inspired by her sister Rosemary, who had an intellectual disability. Since then, the mo-
vement has grown worldwide, changing the lives of millions of people and their families.
CINIA (SOLTRA GROUP México)
Twenty years ago, Don Antonino and Doña Cinia planted the seeds of a project in Mexico inspired by SOLTRA’s original model, with a clear mission: to promote the labor inclusion of people with disabilities in a dignified, productive, and humane environment. Today, that vision is more alive than ever at the headquarters in the city of Puebla, where more than one thousand people are part of a community committed to diversity, respect, and equal opportunities.
The current organizational structure reflects a solid, multidisciplinary company in which each area fulfills an essential role. From General Management to the different departments of Human Resources, Accounting, Purchasing, Sales, and Marketing, every unit works in coordination to ensure the smooth operation of the company. Key areas such as Quality, Maintenance, Safety and Hygiene also stand out, along with a strong focus on speciali-
zed training in automotive work, sewing, crafts, and cleaning. The project places particular emphasis on the comprehensive well-being of its employees. For this reason, it offers medical services, nursing assistants, psychology, and a Mexican Sign Language interpreter, ensuring an accessible, healthy, and respectful environment for every individual need.
Beyond positions and responsibilities, what truly brings this project to life are the people. Getting to know those who are part of SOLTRA CINIA in Puebla means getting closer to a story of teamwork, resilience, and commitment to a more humane and fairer business model.
JESÚS CORTÉS Purchasing Manager
How would you define yourself? I have ADHD, and I have trouble maintaining my attention
How long do you usually sleep? 7 hours
One hobby? watch series and swim
One film? Perfect Strangers One sport? Swimming
Your favourite meal? Pizza
Anything you hate? the heat
What do you prefer in SOLTRA? Satisfaction that comes from helping others
What would you improve? I would remove the uniform
JOHANA FRANCO Accounting Manager
How would you define yourself?
I am a calm person, but with great initiative, and I love to study.
How long do you usually sleep? 6 hours
One hobby?
Watching series, movies, and reading
One film? Lovers of the arctic circle One sport? Football
Your favourite meal? Tlayoyos tlatlauquenses
Anything you hate? Animal abuse
What do you prefer in SOLTRA? humanitarian leaderhsip
What would you improve?
Processes of archiving files into a digital version
MAGDALENA LÓPEZ Quality Manager
How would you define yourself?
As someone who is constantly learning, I am a humanistic Gestalt psychologist who works in quality and psychotherapy, but above all, I am a child of God who recognizes the miracles and opportunities He has granted in my life and family.
How long do you usually sleep? Not enough
One hobby?
Relax with my family, talk and read with my friends. I have fun with my son. I like running
One film? The Chosen
One sport? Athletics
Your favourite meal? Adobo
Anything you hate? Irresponsibility
What do you prefer in SOLTRA? Culture of inclusion
What would you improve? I think it continually improves
SAMANTHA HENRÍQUEZ Coomunication Manager
How would you define yourself? Resilient, empowered, and passionate about everything I do. I love learning new things and sharing what little I know.
How long do you usually sleep? 6-7 hours
One hobby?
I play football, it’s my passion. I also enjoy padel, cycling, and yoga. I love spending time with my husband and family. I like to study (courses, languages, etc.).
One film? Patch Adams, Mulan, Toy Story
¿One sport? Football
Your favourite meal? Arepas
¿Algo que detestes? Hypocrisy
What do you prefer in SOLTRA? Its reason for being and humanity
What would you improve? More companies like that
Autismo
Getting to Know
León: a story of commitment and hope
Twenty-two years ago, three families joined forces and hearts to create what is now a benchmark in caring for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the province of León: the association Autismo León. José Ángel Crego, one of the founders and current president, recalls those first steps with emotion. “It was founded by Pedro’s parents, Fernando’s parents, and Baltasar’s parents,” he shares. “I especially remember the opening of the school with great affection. It was a real battle that took us two years.”
That school, now called Paz Peña, was the association’s first major achievement. It was followed by the creation of a high school, a day center, supervised housing, and a wide range of services that have grown alongside the needs of people with ASD and their families.
Although he acknowledges that society has made progress in raising awareness about disability, José Ángel emphasizes that there is still a long way to go: “What families would appreciate the most is being able to live as normal a life as possible — going
to a restaurant, to the cinema, for a walk… everyday things that often become more complicated than they should be.” Understanding, he insists, remains one of the greatest needs for people with autism and those close to them.
This year, the association has launched an inspiring artistic project: Divergentes, a short film starring people with autism. The idea came from Pascual Marín Marina, a former colleague of José Ángel and a photography and film enthusiast. “One day he told me he wanted to make a short film with young people with autism, and with the support of our professionals, we made it happen. The result is going to be very well received.”
Autismo León’s work goes far beyond education. Its comprehensive approach includes leisure, recreation, and employment as essential pillars. “Right now, the kids are enjoying seaside vacations in organized groups. These are enriching experiences for them and also a much-needed break for their families.”
One of the biggest challenges, according to José Ángel, is inclusive employment: “It’s still an unresolved issue. Although we know it’s not easy, we’ve already managed to get about six people working in local companies. Step by step, we’re making progress.”
The next major step for the association is the creation of a guardianship foundation, a structure that will ensure the care and protection of people with autism when their parents are no longer able to do so. “Children grow up, and we grow older too. This project, which we hope will be operational by the end of the year, will bring peace of mind to many families. We need organizations that outlive individuals.”
To families who have just received an autism diagnosis, José Ángel sends a clear message: “We know how hard it is, and how unfamiliar it can feel. But you are not alone. In León, you have our association, which supports not only the child but the entire family. We want to make their lives as easy as possible.”
1.- How did you find out about SOLTRA?We learned about SOLTRA through the Juan Soñador Foundation. Said completed a cleaning training course there, and it was through this organization that we were put in touch with SOLTRA. He had an interview, and from that moment on, he began his career with the company.
2.- What was it that primarily attracted you to SOLTRA for your son’s training?We were very impressed to see how they give opportunities to everyone, regardless of whether they have a disability or a difficulty. We believe that speaks volumes about their values. It was very important to us.
3.- ¿A qué edad comenzó su hijo a trabajar en SOLTRA? 19 years old.
MOTHER
Hayat Ennaini
Said Zoved
Age 27
Job: Automotive technician
4.-What progress do you think has been made during this time?
He’s made tremendous progress. He really enjoys coming to work and it’s clear she finds joy in her daily life. One of the best things is that he’s formed a close-knit group of friends, which has given him a lot of confidence and happiness. He’s also matured significantly as a person: she’s become more responsible and independent, and she’s fully committed to everything she does.
6.- Do you have more children?Yes, I have three children. Two boys and a girl. Said is the oldest of the three.
7.- What aspects would you highlight about SOLTRA? What we value most is that they offer real opportunities for workplace inclusion. It’s not just a job; it’s an environment where people are valued for who they
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are, where respect and coexistence are fostered.
8.- ¿What aspects of SOLTRA would you improve?nothing at the moment
9.- What is your son’s main quality?
He is a very respectful person. He loves to cook and is always looking out for me as a mother.
10.- What do you think SOLTRA has brought to your family?
SOLTRA has given us so much, both financially and in terms of peace of mind and stability. Knowing that Said has a stable job in a safe and respectful environment gives us great peace of mind. For him, it represents an opportunity for the future, and for us as a family, it provides great security.
MENTAL HEALTH NETWORK IN LEÓN
DR. ANTONIO SERRANO GARCÍA CAULE Head of Psychiatry
At “Corazón Solidario”, we give voice to those who build a fairer society through everyday actions, with commitment, humanity, and a transformative vision. Today, we look at the heart of the healthcare system to talk about mental health with Dr. Antonio Serrano, the new Head of the Psychiatry Department at León Hospital.
With extensive clinical experience and an integrative approach, Dr. Serrano takes on the role with renewed enthusiasm and a firm commitment to modernizing psychiatric care. Under his leadership, the department will promote management based on equity, process-oriented care, and a deep connection with the community and the social and healthcare network.
You are taking on the leadership of the department at a time when mental health is increasingly present in public debate. What excites you most about this new stage?
The desire to make things better is what has led me to take on this challenge. Mental health is a crucial area, but I have an
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ambivalent view when human suffering is mistaken for a mental health problem. There is a lot of talk about mental health these days, but at a rather superficial level — anxiety, depression — and people often forget about those with severe mental illnesses, who are precisely the main focus of our care. These patients live with conditions that prevent them from carrying out their daily lives normally.
Our goal is to help them be as autonomous as possible, to enable them to build a life project, even if they may have limitations.
Mental illnesses have a genetic component and require a scientifically rigorous yet deeply human approach. Our focus is on severe mental disorders. Since resources are limited, the principle of equity must guide our actions.
León has highly specialized resources, such as the longstay unit and the dual pathology unit. What role do these facilities play in the care of severe mental disorders?
Both units are located here in León but serve as regional re-
ference centers. They are a fundamental part of the rehabilitation network for patients with severe disorders.
The dual pathology unit cares for people with intellectual disabilities and comorbid mental disorders. The long-stay unit, on the other hand, is aimed at very severe patients with treatment-resistant psychotic conditions. In both cases, the goal is their rehabilitation and to help them function as normally as possible.
These are clinically complex but essential facilities. In León, we are fortunate to have these resources. In illnesses such as schizophrenia, for instance, the negative symptoms — apathy, impoverished thinking, reduced motor activity — are what mark the progression of the disease. It’s not just about delusions, which in many cases are more treatable.
The Mental Health Humanization Plan in Castilla y León includes 45 measures. Which ones do you consider a priority for implementation at León Hospital?
The first thing that strikes me is that it’s even necessary to highlight a “humanization plan” within a specialty that, by definition, is already humanistic. The key issue is having sufficient resources to put it into practice.
Among the priorities, I would emphasize respect for patients’ rights: ensuring they are informed at all times, minimizing coercive measures as much as possible, and above all, fighting stigma.
Society still perceives people with mental illnesses with fear, and we must fight ignorance, because ignorance is the greatest source of fear.
From SOLTRA and Fundación SOLTRA we work to support life pathways for people with mental illness. How important is job inclusion in the recovery process?
Work inclusion is one of the essential pillars in the rehabilitation process for anyone with a mental illness. Having a job is not only a source of income—it’s also a source of identity, self-esteem, and belonging.
For our patients, whose lives have often been interrupted by illness, gaining access to employment—even if it’s adapted or protected—means an opportunity to rebuild their life story from a healthy place. It allows them to feel useful, valued, and part of a community.
We all need an identity, and
Solidarity Heart
professional identity is one of the most structuring and healthy ones. For someone to be able to say “I’m a carpenter,” “I’m a gardener,” or “I work in a laundry” is, in many cases, a turning point in their recovery.
That’s why I highly value the work of organizations like SOLTRA, which approach mental health from a comprehensive perspective—beyond the purely clinical.
The European campaign “Take Care of Mental Health. Invest in Social Rights” highlights the need for inclusive policies. Do you think Spain is on the right path to integrating mental health into all public policies?
I believe we are missing the point here. There is too much emphasis being placed on suffering as if it were the same as mental illness—and it isn’t. We are forgetting patients with severe disorders, who are the core of our work. Suffering is inherent to being human and should not be confused with pathology.
Moreover, very harmful myths persist. One of the most dangerous is the association between mental illness and violence. There are many factors that can explain aggressive behavior, and reducing everything to a psychiatric diagnosis is unfair—both to the person and to society.
What role do families play in therapeutic processes?
Families are a fundamental pillar in the recovery process for anyone with a severe mental disorder. However, they also need support themselves. In the 1980s, with
the psychiatric reform and the closure of many hospitals, much of the care burden was shifted onto families—but without giving them the necessary resources. Over time, intermediate care services have been developed that have helped to ease that burden, and León is a province with a fairly comprehensive network. But we still don’t reach everyone, and it’s our duty to find mechanisms to expand that coverage.
CreAcción Mental is an example of network collaboration among organizations like SOLTRA and San Juan de Dios. How do you value the role of these alliances in the comprehensive treatment of patients?
These alliances are undoubtedly one of the most valuable elements of the current model. Working in networks allows for more comprehensive, diverse, and needs-based care. Initiatives like CreAcción Mental, which promote artistic, cultural, and social creation as a form of expression and recovery, are essential. Because a person is not just their diagnosis. They have interests, abilities, and creativity. Recovering that dimension is a key part of treatment—we’re giving them tools to build a healthy and sustainable identity over time.
“ACTIVOS Y FELICES “ AWARD CEREMONY
During the 2025 Activos y Felices Association Awards Gala, held at the Ciudad de León Auditorium, our CEO, José Antonio Idoeta, presented the Female Talent and Solidarity Award to Nuria Alonso Mateos, Director of the CEPA González Díez Foundation.
It was an especially emotional moment for our organization, given the close bond that unites us with the foundation. Nuria was recognized for her strong commitment to entrepreneurship, female leadership, solidarity, and support for the most vulnerable groups. Her empathy, collaborative spirit, and social vocation make her a true role model.
Our congratulations to Nuria and to all the award winners, and our gratitude to the Activos y Felices Association.
LA8 LEÓN
We attended the annual La 8 León Sports Awards Gala, held at Club La Venatoria — an event full of emotion that celebrated the effort, dedication, and achievements of athletes, clubs, and associations from across the province.
SOLTRA GROUP had the honor of presenting the Inclusion Award, which was granted to the Olímpico ASPRONA-LEÓN football team, champions of the Más que Goles league.
A well-deserved recognition for a team that embodies the values of inclusive sports, proving that with enthusiasm and teamwork, anything is possible.
CAMINO DE SANTIAGO AS A TOOL FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Several residents from Residencia Doña Cinia, part of the SOLTRA Foundation, completed a stage of the Camino de Santiago between San Miguel del Camino and Villadangos del Páramo, in an activity designed to promote emotional well-being and social integration, organized in collaboration with the Association of Friends of the Camino de Santiago.
It has been proven that the Camino offers significant benefits for mental health. This is supported by the Ultreya Project, led by Dr. Albert Feliu Soler, which highlights how the pilgrimage experience improves mood, boosts self-esteem, and helps individuals find a greater sense of purpose.
Beyond the therapeutic value of the journey, the day was marked by the warm hospitality at the Villadangos hostel, where residents and staff enjoyed a delicious meal that provided the perfect closing to a very special day.
“AS LONG AS THERE ARE PEOPLE, THERE IS HOPE”
With this beautiful motto as the title of the main event of Charity Week, part of the team from the Doña Cinia Residence and Occupational Center of the SOLTRA Foundation took part in a very special day organized by Cáritas Diocesana de León in Plaza de la Catedral.
During the activity, we hung banners filled with messages of hope — a symbol of a community that firmly believes in solidarity and in building a fairer world.
At SOLTRA, Solidarity and Work are not just words, but values that are part of our very identity. That is why we fully share the spirit of this initiative, which highlights the best in people.
