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-Editorial
President Claudia Sheinbaum’s first year in office in 2025 was marked by a series of international recognitions highlighting her public policy agenda, global influence, and personal style, according to announcements from professional organizations and major media outlets.
Sheinbaum, who took office as Mexico’s first female president, received the Public Officials Award from the Water Environment Federation in September. The organization cited her leadership in water management and her role in advancing large-scale infrastructure and sustainability initiatives. The recognition focused in particular on the National Water Program, which includes measures such as rainwater harvesting systems, river cleanup and sanitation projects, modernization of irrigation districts, and the development of priority water works aimed at improving efficiency and long-term water security.
The Water Environment Federation’s Public Officials Award recognizes elected or appointed officials who have demonstrated documented leadership in the protection and improvement of the water environment. The honor is specifically designed to bridge the gap between technical water management and public policy, highlighting those who use their public platform to advance clean water legislation or improve government services.
Recipients are evaluated based on their contributions to public policy and their ability to raise the prominence of water quality issues at the local, state, or federal levels. While the federation typically serves water professionals, nominees for this specific award are not required to hold membership in the organization, allowing for the recognition of a broad range of civic leaders and policymakers.
In April, TIME magazine named Sheinbaum to its annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world. The publication highlighted her academic background as a climate scientist and her emphasis on environmental and climate-related policies. TIME also noted her participation in negotiations with the United States, placing her among political leaders, activists, and public figures recognized for their global impact during the year.
Later in December, The New York Times included Sheinbaum on its list of the 67 most stylish people of the year. The newspaper cited her consistent incorporation of clothing and accessories made by Mexican women artisans as part of her public image. According to the publication, her style reflects a blend of personal presentation and cultural representation.
The New York Times list featured a wide range of international figures from politics, entertainment, fashion, and media. Those named alongside Sheinbaum included U.S. first lady Melania Trump, Pope Leo XIV, musician Bad Bunny, and other actors, performers, and editors from around the world.
The recognitions came during Sheinbaum’s first year leading Mexico’s federal government, a period closely watched both domestically and internationally as her administration began to implement policy priorities and establish its approach on the global stage.
