HeForShe Spain Launch Gala Marks New Chapter for Collective Action on Gender Equality

Eva D. Castro Outeiriño, President of UN Women Spain, at the HeForShe Spain Gala held at Espacio Almagro in Madrid. 
Photo credit: UN Women Spain

Spain, 16 June 2026 -  The HeForShe Spain Gala was held at Espacio Almagro in Madrid, organized by UN Women Spain. The event marked the official launch of the HeForShe National Chapter in Spain, convening leaders, organisations, and institutions committed to advancing responsible leadership and gender equality. It brought together a broad coalition of actors aligned around a shared objective: strengthening collective engagement to advance gender equality across sectors and society.

The programme featured strategic roundtable discussions with leaders from business, academia, and civil society, focused on advancing gender equality through cross-sector dialogue. Throughout the Gala, businesses, public figures, and institutions were highlighted for translating commitment into concrete action. As part of the launch, HeForShe engaged and onboarded Voices for Change to champion the movement in Spain, reinforcing its national presence and reach.

A series of strategic efforts supported the establishment of the national chapter. These included the mobilisation of WEPs signatories and the recruitment of new corporate partners, further strengthening private sector engagement in the HeForShe movement in Spain. A digital awareness campaign was also coordinated, featuring content shared by Voices for Change across social media platforms, amplifying visibility and engagement beyond the event itself. In addition, organisations advancing gender equality were recognised through the Actions for Change awards, showcasing concrete examples of progress within participating companies.

To ensure continuity beyond the Gala, a HeForShe Breakfast was convened in Barcelona, bringing together companies and partners to deepen collaboration and support the development of future commitments.

The launch demonstrated strong multi-stakeholder engagement and reach, bringing together 145 attendees, with participation from 28 companies and representation from 45 institutions. It also included 7 Voices for Change, comprising public figures, and recognised 6 Actions for Change highlighting award-winning initiatives. In total, €18,000 was raised in donations to sustain and expand HeForShe in Spain.

“Equality is not a cause that belongs exclusively to women, but a collective project that requires the commitment of society as a whole. Through this movement, we aim to promote a new form of leadership capable of transforming structures and creating opportunities for all people.” - Eva D. Castro Outeiriño, President of UN Women Spain

The HeForShe Spain launch reflects a growing ecosystem of partners committed to advancing structural change. Through coordinated engagement, corporate participation, public recognition, and sustained dialogue, the national chapter has established a foundation for continued collaboration and action.

The Madrid Gala marks the beginning of an ongoing effort to strengthen alliances and accelerate progress toward gender equality across Spain.