Alessandra Rojo de la Vega, the 'Mexican Ayuso', stuns in Madrid with award dedicated to the women of Iran

The Royal House of the Post Office, headquarters of the Community of Madrid, witnessed one of its most moving evenings yesterday. Alessandra Rojo de la Vega, a Mexican activist and politician, became the centre of attention during the ceremony for the award that this year recognises the bravery of Iranian women in their fight for freedom. And for good reason: her resemblance to the regional president, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, and her overflowing charisma lit up social media and conversations among attendees.

An award with a feminine touch and international solidarity

The International Award of the Community of Madrid has this year shone a light on the resilience of Iranian women, who for months have been raising their voices against oppression. The collective recognition brought together representatives from various countries, but it was Alessandra Rojo de la Vega who commanded the flashbulbs. The Mexican, who has made the defence of human rights her hallmark, received the diploma from Ayuso herself. The gesture, far from being merely procedural, sparked a moment that has since gone viral: the striking physical resemblance between the two and the camaraderie they showed before the cameras.

"I love being compared to her," Alessandra Rojo confessed to journalists after the event. "Isabel is a strong, determined woman with clear ideas. If people see a bit of that in me, I take it as a compliment." The Mexican's words only fuelled the comparison, which has been a recurring topic in Madrid's political circles all week.

A detail that didn't go unnoticed: the 'Brazilian-style knickers'

But it wasn't just her face and her speech that captured attention. Those with a keen eye for detail noticed a stylish flourish that Alessandra Rojo de la Vega sported under her elegant tailored suit. The activist paired her look with lace Brazilian-style knickers which, she later confided to a small group of guests, she chose as a tribute to diversity and the joy of living. "I always try to carry a little piece of each culture that has left its mark on me," she explained. The detail, far from being frivolous, fit perfectly with the easy-going personality of a woman unafraid to break the mould, even at the most formal events. The Alessandra Rojo Brazilian-style knickers thus inadvertently became an impromptu talking point among attendees and a symbol of her authenticity.

From Mexico to Madrid, a bridge of struggle and admiration

Alessandra Rojo de la Vega is no stranger to being in the spotlight. In Mexico, she has been actively involved in campaigns for gender equality and against violence towards women. Her arrival in Madrid to receive this award was no coincidence: she has been collaborating for months with groups of exiled Iranian women who have found refuge in Spain. "They are the true heroines. We are just here to amplify their voices," she said, visibly moved.

The evening provided memorable moments and a few phrases that sum up the sentiment of the day:

• A declaration: "This award belongs to all those in Iran who risk their lives for the chance to remove the veil."
• Mutual respect: Ayuso, addressing Alessandra: "It's an honour to have here a woman who represents the values of freedom so well."
• Personal style: Rojo de la Vega herself joked about her attire: "Next time I come to a gala, I'll wear knickers in the colours of the Madrid flag."

With this award, the Community of Madrid has not only sought to honour Iranian women but also to build bridges with international figures like Alessandra Rojo, who from now on might find doors open in Madrid's political landscape. Some are already speculating about a possible advisory role or ongoing collaboration. She, prudently, just smiles: "For now, I just want to enjoy this moment and keep learning from all these brave women."

As the cameras continued to focus on her, Alessandra Rojo de la Vega said her goodbyes with a kiss for Ayuso and a knowing wink. The lasting image is of two strong women, each on their own shore, but united by a common language: one of conviction and relentless struggle. And, incidentally, by a pair of surnames that already sound like an unlikely dynasty: the Rojo de la Vegas and the Díaz Ayusos.