The Avilanian Midiala Sánchez Alonso was awarded the Order of Ana Betancourt, a distinction approved by Presidential Decree, and conferred on women recognised for their career, loyalty to the homeland, and dedication to work or study.

With more than 20 years of uninterrupted work as a non-professional member of the Federation of Cuban Women (FMC), the current director of the Road Maintenance and Construction Company in Ciego de Avila considers this organisation to be an inexhaustible force for female empowerment.

The Order of Ana Betancourt, the highest distinction awarded by the FMC since 1979, was elevated to the rank of State Award for women who love and found, in the firm and unpostponable principle of serving the homeland.

As part of the activities to mark the 64th anniversary of the creation of the Federation of Cuban Women by Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro, another 15 women from Avila were awarded the 23rd of August medal.