HAVANA — The Hermanos Saíz Association (AHS), which brings together Cuba's young creators, presented the Master of Youths Award (Premio Maestro de Juventudes) on Monday to 16 prominent figures of national culture and Brazilian theologian Frei Betto.

According to the organization, the award—its highest recognition—honors artists and intellectuals whose life work and conduct serve as a guiding light for younger generations.

The presentation of the awards is part of the activities commemorating the four decades of the organization, which was founded on October 18, 1986.

On social media, the AHS noted that alongside national honorees, it also recognizes personalities born outside Cuba or without permanent residency on the Caribbean island who have made the country a second home.

For this reason, the distinction was awarded to Frei Betto, the religious name of Carlos Alberto Libânio Christo, a Brazilian Dominican friar, liberation theologian, writer, and social activist.

Betto has accompanied the Cuban revolutionary process, defended the island in international forums, denounced the blockade, and promoted solidarity among peoples. The AHS underscored that his voice has served as a reference point in complex times.

The group of Cuban honorees spans multiple generations and artistic disciplines.

In dance and cultural promotion, Regina Balaguer, director of the Camagüey Ballet, and Marta Anido, founder of Santa Clara's first ballet school, were recognized.

In the visual arts, painter Moisés Finalé was honored, while in literature, awards were conferred on journalist Marilyn Bobes, writer Jorge Fornet, and poets Lucía Muñoz and Luis Carlos Suárez. Cinema and theater included actress Mirtha Ibarra and director Dagoberto Gaínza.

Television, radio, and audiovisual media were represented by José Ramón Artigas, Josefa Bracero, and Orlando Cruzata, while music and musicology honored María Elena Vinueza, Rodulfo Vaillant, Liuba María Hevia, and Josué Oliva.