The Centro de Internamiento de Menores Infractores (CIMI) Sierra Morena, in Córdoba, has hosted a very special day: an educational workshop promoted by the center itself, in collaboration with the Instituto Andaluz de la Juventud (IAJ) and the organization PAMBIKES, which featured the participation of the world champion and holder of several records in Bike Trial, Pablo Adame.
The Minister of Justice, Local Administration, and Public Function, José Antonio Nieto, wanted to accompany the young people during this activity, which he defined as «a fundamental tool to redirect lives through professionalism, empathy, and direct contact with minors.» Adame not only offered a spectacular sports exhibition in the center’s courtyard, where even the minors and educators participated as he soared over them with his bike but also shared his life experience with the boys and girls in a motivational talk.
«He himself had a difficult childhood, which could have been an excuse to give up, to let go, to give up on dreams, but he did just the opposite, he turned his difficulties into a lever to overcome, to grow, to achieve his goals both in sports and personal life. That’s the example we want to convey,» highlighted the minister.
«Above all, I have come to tell them that a new life is possible. If I could move forward despite all the problems I had, they can too. Sometimes all it takes is a motivation exercise and believing in oneself. As I usually say: to believe is to create,» expressed Pablo Adame.
«Today we have done a small activity, but the most important thing is for the kids to see that it is possible, that it all starts with setting goals and directing their lives, and that’s why we are here: to help them achieve it,» concluded the athlete.
Nieto recalled that Juvenile Justice in Andalusia is a benchmark and defended its essential role as a tool for reintegration. During his visit, he also appreciated the involvement of the professional team at the center, managed by Meridianos, and the IAJ, for their commitment to organizing activities that «connect with young people, strengthen their values, and offer them new life opportunities.»
The minister highlighted that over 80% of minors who go through the Andalusian Juvenile Justice system do not reoffend, and that «the remaining 20% leave in better conditions than when they entered. The result is hopeful and allows us to look to the future with optimism, trusting in a youth with more examples like that of Pablo.»
In 2024, a total of 5,795 minors went through Juvenile Justice resources in Andalusia: 4,681 in open centers, 1,114 in internment, and another 2,105 participated in mediations. In the province of Córdoba, there were 403 minors: 179 in open centers, 51 in internment, and 179 in mediation programs.
Alongside the minister, the Director General of the IAJ, Pedro Antonio Ramírez, the Territorial Delegate for Social Inclusion, Dolores Sánchez Moreno, her counterpart in Justice, Raquel López, and the IAJ Coordinator in Córdoba, Carmen Arco, attended the visit.
