Panama City, Panama – September 25, 2025 – Premios Juventud, the premier awards show celebrating Hispanic music, culture, and entertainment, etched its name in history tonight by broadcasting live from Panama City for the first time. This landmark 22nd edition, coinciding with Hispanic Heritage Month, spotlighted the vibrant and expanding global influence of Latin artists and their contributions to the entertainment industry.
Panama’s Historic Debut on the Global Stage
For the first time in its 22-year history, Premios Juventud ventured beyond U.S. borders, choosing Panama City as its host for the 2025 ceremony. This significant move underscored TelevisaUnivision’s commitment to honoring the strengths and diversity of Latin American countries. Ignacio Meyer, President of Univision Networks Group at TelevisaUnivision, expressed pride in showcasing Panama’s beauty and talent to the world, emphasizing the country’s dynamic culture and strategic importance. Panama’s Minister of Tourism, Gloria de León, hailed the event as a monumental milestone, boosting tourism and solidifying the nation’s position as an international destination. The event’s visual identity further embraced Panamanian heritage, with its graphic design inspired by the traditional Mola textile art crafted by indigenous Guna women.
Agents of Change Honored for Social Impact
Amidst the celebration of music and culture, Premios Juventud also recognized individuals making a significant difference off-stage. Colombian music icon Carlos Vives and Puerto Rican global superstar Myke Towers were jointly honored with the prestigious “Agent of Change” award. Vives was celebrated for his extensive philanthropic work through Fundación Tras La Perla, focusing on education, environmental sustainability, and the preservation of Afro-Colombian and Indigenous heritage. Towers was recognized for his transformative efforts with the Young Kingz Foundation, dedicated to empowering vulnerable communities in Puerto Rico and across Latin America. Their accolades highlighted how leading artists are driving positive social impact and transformation within their communities.
A Night of Top Winners and Electrifying Performances
The ceremony, hosted by Alejandra Espinoza, Nadia Ferreira, and Clarissa Molina, featured a dazzling array of performances and celebrated the year’s biggest achievements in latin music and pop culture. Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny and the Colombian pop-rock band Morat emerged as the night’s top winners, each taking home three awards. Bad Bunny secured wins in categories including Best Urban Track, Best Urban Mix, and Best Urban Album. Morat’s victories included Favorite Group or Duo of the Year and Best Pop/Rock Song. Colombian sensation Karol G was crowned Artist of the Year, further cementing her status as a leading force in the music industry.
The stage came alive with performances from a roster of renowned artists, including Maluma, Farruko, Camilo, Lola Índigo, and Grupo Firme, among many others. A special opening number paid homage to Panama’s rich musical legacy, featuring a lineup of Panamanian and international artists performing iconic local hits. The event also saw surprise collaborations and performances, including a medley by Carlos Vives, Sergio George, and Grupo Niche, showcasing the diversity and innovation within the latin music scene.
Evolving with the Rhythm of Music
Premios Juventud 2025 continued its tradition of reflecting the evolving landscape of youth culture by introducing new categories. This year’s ceremony expanded its recognition beyond traditional music and television, acknowledging creators in the beauty and fashion industry, podcasters, streamers, and even soccer enthusiasts. This evolution underscores the awards’ commitment to celebrating a wider spectrum of talent and influence among young Hispanic and Latino Americans, acknowledging how digital platforms and diverse fields are shaping the modern entertainment industry.
As the credits rolled, it was clear that Premios Juventud 2025 in Panama was more than just an awards show; it was a powerful testament to the dynamism, cultural richness, and ever-growing global impact of Latin music and culture. The event not only celebrated artistic achievements but also highlighted the vital role youth play in shaping the future of entertainment and culture worldwide.
