At the National Awards Ceremony for Innovation and Design, Queen Letizia was in the spotlight not only as a member of the monarchy, but also as someone deeply attuned to the mood of society. Her appearance was preceded by remarks from the Minister of Science, Innovation, and Universities, Diana Morant, who praised the Queen’s role highly. The Minister called her a source of inspiration for generations of women and a living symbol of a Spain where women in power help others reach new heights.
The Queen’s own address showed just how such authority is earned. Her speech, dedicated to the award winners, turned out to be one of the most memorable in recent times. It was less about precise wording and more about her candid and personal asides, which revealed just how closely she relates to the everyday concerns of ordinary people. Letizia knows how to go beyond protocol, voicing from the podium what many are truly concerned about.
A central theme of her reflections was the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence. The Queen candidly shared the confusion that most people feel today as they are confronted by a constant torrent of news about the promises and threats of new technologies. She noted that every time she tries to get a handle on the subject, she discovers one new concept after another: from superintelligence to quantum AI and self-aware machines. In her view, this avalanche of information is causing deep concern in society, especially when it comes to the future job market.
Amid the technological boom, Letizia emphasized the enduring value of the human mind. She remarked that the exceptional talents gathered at the ceremony remind us of the irreplaceability of human intelligence. The Queen contrasted algorithms with the unique synaptic connections in the human brain, which allow us not only to learn, act, and remember, but, most importantly—to feel. She gave special emphasis to this last word, underscoring its importance.
Concluding her speech, the Queen addressed the winners, describing their achievements and careers as a true “map of excellence.” She noted that these women and men, with their unique work and ideas, are an integral part of Spain’s rich diversity. Their national recognition, she said, pays tribute to the creative and intellectual force that drives the country forward.
