Fano Hernández, Dunas Map "Man of the Month" for August 2026

Fano Hernández is the coordinator of Punto Arco Iris Maspalomas; he was a co-founder of Maspalomas Pride, and he also took an active role in the International Carnival of Maspalomas.

Native of Gran Canaria and gay activist for thirty years on the island, Fano Hernández is the Dunas Map 'Man of the Month' for August 2026.

· Hello Fano, could you introduce yourself as fully as possible? What are the most important things we should know about you?

- My name is Fano Hernández. I was born in Puerto de Mogán, on the island of Gran Canaria. My age is the age of mature youth.

I am a higher technician in commercial administration, I speak several languages.

At present, I am the president and founder of the Observatorio INAP LGTBI+ and the coordinator of Punto Arco Iris Maspalomas. I have also worked as a dancer, choreographer, and artistic director, a stage of my life that deeply shaped who I am today. · So you are from Gran Canaria; do you live here all year round? Why did you choose Maspalomas as your home?

- Yes, I am from Gran Canaria, and I live here all year round. I have been living in Maspalomas for many years, since I became independent. It is the place where I have built my personal life, my professional career, and my commitment to LGBTI activism. I never had to choose another place because this has always been my home.

· You are well known as the coordinator of Punto Arco Iris. Is your full-time job, or do you have another occupation?

- My profession is working for Correos in Maspalomas, where I've been working for almost thirty years. All my work within the Observatorio INAP LGTBI+ and Punto Arco Iris is carried out voluntarily and without any financial compensation.

I believe I am better known because of more than thirty years of activism. I was a co-founder of Maspalomas Pride and its first artistic director. I also took an active role in the development of the International Carnival of Maspalomas and served as vice-president of GLAY during its early years.

· What is the purpose of Punto Arco Iris? What services does it provide and who are they intended for? How many enquiries do you receive?

- Punto Arco Iris is a shared space where six LGBTI associations work together in a coordinated way. Our aim is to give visibility to the work of each organisation, provide guidance to people, and direct them to the association that can best respond to their particular needs. It is a space created to encourage cooperation and mutual support among associations.

The enquiries are not centralised. What is centralised is the information through one single website, allowing every person to contact directly the association that best suits their needs.

· What is your role as coordinator?

- My role is to inform both institutions and the general public about the work carried out by the different associations that are part of Punto Arco Iris.

I also encourage cooperation between them and promote new initiatives, always respecting the independence of every association.

I have been involved in the LGBTI movement for more than thirty years and have collaborated with different organisations, always working for equality, visibility and the defence of human rights.

· How did you become the coordinator of Punto Arco Iris?

- Punto Arco Iris was created through the initiative of several associations with the common objective of supporting each other and working together for the benefit of the LGBTI community.

Because of my long experience in activism and my collaboration with public institutions, the associations placed their trust in me to coordinate this project.

· What are the main needs of the LGBTI community in Maspalomas today? What are the most requested services?

- Although significant progress has been achieved, there is still a great need for guidance, psychological support, legal advice, and the fight against loneliness, especially among older people. We must also continue educating society in order to combat every form of discrimination.

· Do you believe Punto Arco Iris will expand into other areas, such as culture, tourism, or sport?

- Yes. We wish to continue growing and supporting cultural, educational, sporting, and social initiatives that benefit the LGBTI community, always through cooperation between associations.

· Are there other Punto Arco Iris projects in Spain or Europe?

- There are similar initiatives, but Punto Arco Iris Maspalomas has its own model, based on collaboration between independent associations sharing the same space and common objectives.

· What social issues concern you the most regarding the LGBTI community?

- Any form of discrimination concerns me deeply.

I have only experienced one homophobic attack in my entire life. It happened at the Yumbo Shopping Centre, where two members of the security staff assaulted my partner and me simply because we entered the restroom holding hands. It was a very painful experience, but it also strengthened my commitment to activism.

I dream of a society where nobody is afraid to express who they are or whom they love.

· Are addictions a problem within the LGBTI community in Gran Canaria?

- As in any other community, such situations do exist, but we should never generalise. The important thing is to focus on prevention, education and access to specialised support, while avoiding any kind of stigma.

· How has the LGBTI community in Maspalomas evolved?

It has changed enormously. Today we enjoy greater visibility, wider acceptance and international recognition as a diverse and inclusive destination. Nevertheless, we must continue working to protect and strengthen the rights that have been achieved.

· Does the LGBTI community in Maspalomas have its own identity?

- Yes. The coexistence of people from many different nationalities and cultures makes Maspalomas a unique, open and welcoming place. This diversity is one of our greatest strengths.

· Are you optimistic about the future of the LGBTI community and tourism in Maspalomas?

- Yes, I am. I believe Maspalomas will continue to be an international reference. My wish is that it keeps growing not only as a tourist destination but also as an example of coexistence, equality, and mutual respect.

· Do you have hobbies outside your work?

- I enjoy the sea, walking along the coast, spending time in nature, and sharing special moments with the people I love. I also remain closely connected to culture and social projects.

· What are your favourite places in Maspalomas?

- I love Maspalomas Beach and its dunes. I also enjoy the atmosphere of the Yumbo Centre, its terraces, and the places where I can have a quiet conversation with friends.

And now, some personal favorites...

· What is the most beautiful trip you've ever been on?

> Any trip that has allowed me to discover other cultures...

· The type of music you listen to?

> Very diverse; it depends on my mood.

· The movie you like? > Those that tell real and human stories.

· Which are the artists you follow or admire?

> I admire artists who use their talent to transmit values and inspire reflection.

· Some personalities who inspire you?

> All those who have fought for equality and human rights.

· Some books to recommend if you like to read.

> Yes, I am especially interested in books about history, human rights and personal growth.

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