Mission:
The Agustín Barrios Gómez Méndez Foundation aims to recognize and honor individuals who dedicate their work to promoting Mexico on the global stage or bring valuable international influences to enrich Mexico's culture, identity, and relations with the world.
Vision:
We envision a world where Mexico's rich culture and values are shared and celebrated globally, fostering mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration among nations. Our goal is to inspire future generations of journalists, diplomats, and cultural ambassadors who will continue building bridges between Mexico and the world.
Purpose:
Inspired by the legacy of Agustín Barrios Gómez Méndez a visionary journalist, diplomat, and human rights advocate the foundation was created to highlight individuals who, through their work in journalism, culture, or diplomacy, promote Mexico internationally or bring global knowledge, culture, and advancements to the country. By honoring these individuals, the foundation fosters global friendship, integration, peace, and cooperation.
Agustín Barrios Gómez Méndez was born in Mexico City on December 22, 1925. Although he studied law, his passion for journalism led him to write famous society columns such as "RSVP," "Ayer en Sociedad," and "Ensalada Popoff."
A chronicler of the Mexican Miracle era (1954-1970), Barrios Gómez, in collaboration with filmmaker Demetrio Bilbatúa, produced and recorded the most iconic documentaries of the time. Milestones such as the inauguration of the National Museum of Anthropology, the 1968 Olympics, and the FIFA World Cup, among many other works and events, were immortalized by Producciones Barrios Gómez-Bilbatúa.
Simultaneously, his television presence extended to landmark programs such as "Duelo de Dibujantes" and "Mesa de Celebridades," where prominent figures from Mexican and international showbiz gathered.
As the 1970s progressed, Barrios Gómez expanded his video production to include two groundbreaking series: "El Noticiero Continental" and "Cincomentarios." The former was shown before all movies in cinemas nationwide, while the latter consisted of informative and cultural capsules broadcast nationally on Channel 5.
The volume of content created and hosted by Agustín Barrios Gómez was unprecedented, to the extent that the Guinness Book of World Records recognized him in 1981 for having produced the largest number of television hours among all figures in the television industry at the time.
In 1977, his love for Mexico led him to be appointed Mexico's Ambassador to Canada by newly inaugurated President José López Portillo. For six years, Barrios Gómez represented Mexico in Ottawa, significantly impacting bilateral relations through his immense talent and charisma.
In recognition of his work in Canada, shortly after Miguel de la Madrid assumed the presidency in 1983, he was entrusted with representing Mexico in Switzerland. From 1983 to 1987, Barrios Gómez oversaw a period of flourishing bilateral relations.
In 1987, he returned to his professional roots at Televisa, where he assumed the role of Vice President and led the Cablevisión division. He held this position for two years before President Carlos Salinas de Gortari appointed him Consul General of Mexico in New York. During his tenure in the Big Apple, the ambassador played a key role in staging the largest exhibition of Mexican culture in history, "Mexico: Splendors of Thirty Centuries," at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
In this section, you will find a rich collection of materials from Agustín Barrios Gómez Méndez’s remarkable journalistic career. His writings, photographs, and interviews will showcase his dedication to human rights, equality, and the promotion of Mexico’s image globally. Explore the archive to delve into the immense legacy he left behind.
The ABG Awards is an annual gala that celebrates individuals who exemplify the spirit of Agustín Barrios Gómez Méndez by promoting Mexico on the global stage or enriching the country through international connections. These awards will honor journalists, diplomats, and cultural figures who embody the foundation's mission.
The inaugural event will take place in December 2025, and it will become a significant platform for recognizing the contributions of those who build bridges between Mexico and the world, enhancing cultural diplomacy, peace, and global understanding.
Do you know someone who deserves to be recognized for promoting Mexico internationally or bringing valuable influences to enrich Mexican culture? Nominate them for the ABG Awards. This prestigious honor is given to individuals who, through journalism, diplomacy, or cultural work, contribute to Mexico’s integration into the global community. Submit your candidate now and help us celebrate those who bring nations closer together.
Please fill out the form with your information and one of our representatives will contact you shortly.
